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Dr. Yeung takes a progressive, personalized approach to treatment, beginning with the least invasive options to relieve nasal congestion. When necessary, he can also perform patient-customized procedures that deliver long-term relief, including functional endoscopic sinus surgery, Balloon Sinuplasty, and surgery for turbinate or nasal deformities. We pride ourselves on the results we deliver for our patients and we are dedicated to improving your breathing and getting you back to your normal activities sooner.

What is nasal congestion?

Nasal congestion, also known as a stuffy nose, refers to a blockage of the nasal passages that interferes with normal breathing and mucus drainage. It occurs when your nasal tissues become swollen due to an inflammation of the blood vessels. Excess mucus production can cause additional inflammation and worsening symptoms. While it is common to experience a stuffy nose once in a while, some individuals may experience chronic nasal congestion due to underlying causes that trigger ongoing or long-term inflammation of the nasal tissues.

What causes nasal congestion?

Nasal congestion can result from a number of possible causes, including:

  • Sinusitis
  • Deviated septum
  • Nasal polyps
  • Allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
  • Enlarged nasal turbinates (turbinate hypertrophy)
  • Cold temperatures
  • Common cold
  • Flu
  • Overuse of decongestant nasal sprays
  • Dry air
  • Environmental allergens
  • Enlarged adenoids
  • Hormonal changes
  • Nonallergic rhinitis

What symptoms are associated with nasal congestion?

Nasal congestion may cause or coincide with other symptoms, which may include:

How is nasal congestion treated?

Depending on the cause of your nasal congestion, there are a variety of nasal congestion treatments in Houston that can help. While some cases may be improved with conservative options including over-the-counter medications, topical nasal steroid sprays, allergy medications, allergen avoidance and antibiotics, achieving long-term relief may require a more involved treatment plan. This is because medications will not be successful at fixing the underlying source of nasal congestion for all patients – particularly if the cause is due to an anatomical problem in the nose, such as a deviated septum or nasal polyps. One important thing to keep in mind about nasal congestion treatment is that overuse of nasal sprays can actually lead to inflammation that prolongs your symptoms.

If nasal congestion is impacting your quality of life, the first step is identifying the root cause of your symptoms in order to make a proper diagnosis and determine the best treatment. With over 20 years of experience as an ear, nose, and throat doctor in Houston, Dr. Yeung specializes in helping patients suffering from chronic nasal congestion. Start breathing better and living better by scheduling an appointment at Houston Sinus Surgery at the Yeung Institute today.

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