What Is Congestion?
Congestion, also known as a stuffy nose, occurs when nasal tissue and blood vessels become swollen. This results in a plugged feeling.
Though a stuffy nose often clears up within a few days, your child should seek medical attention if it persists for more than a week. Our team at ENT for Children will provide treatment to allow your child to engage with their favorite activities rather than dealing with discomfort from their symptoms.
What Causes Congestion?
- Infections, such as colds, flu or sinusitis
- Allergens, including dust, pollen, mold or pet dander
- Structural abnormalities, such as a deviated septum, nasal polyps and enlarged adenoids or tonsils
- Cluster headaches
- Hormonal changes
- Medications
- Thyroid problems
- Irritants like tobacco smoke
- Stress
When Should My Child See a Doctor?
A stuffy nose will frequently clear up on its own after several days, but if it lasts longer than a week, it may be a sign of an underlying condition. You should seek medical attention if your child’s symptoms persist for more than 10 days, your child has a fever or your child’s mucus is green, yellow or bloody.
How Does My Child Get Rid of a Stuffy Nose?
During your child’s appointment, our ENT nose specialist will discuss your child’s symptoms, including their length and impact on your child’s life. They will examine your child’s nose, ears and throat. Additional diagnostic tests might include:
- Nasal endoscopy, which refers to using a camera to examine the interior of the nose.
Depending on what’s causing your child’s congestion, treatment options include decongestants, antihistamines, nasal sprays or saline sprays. Your doctor will work with you to create a customized treatment plan based on your child’s needs and lifestyle.
What Can My Child Do at Home to Relieve Their Symptoms?
Some home remedies for congestion include drinking fluids, using nasal spray or humidifiers or over-the-counter medications.
Specialized Treatment From Specialists Who Care
If your child is experiencing persistent nasal congestion, ENT for Children can help your child find relief from their symptoms. Whether your child’s stuffy nose is the result of allergies or an infection, our team will determine what treatment will work best. Contact us today to get started.
Call ENT for Children for more information or to schedule an appointment.