Nasal congestion, also known as a stuffy or congested nose, occurs when the tissues lining the nose become swollen due to inflamed blood vessels
. This swelling can be caused by a cold, the flu, allergies, or irritants such as pollution or smoke
. Nasal congestion can also be a symptom of other conditions such as sinusitis, nasal polyps, or middle ear infections
. It is often accompanied by other symptoms such as a runny nose, postnasal drip, or cough
. Congestion can be relieved with over-the-counter medications, saline nasal sprays, or home remedies such as steam inhalation or nasal irrigation
