Nasal sinus congestion occurs when the lining of the sinus cavity becomes swollen because of inflammation and excess fluid. The sinus cavity is located in the head, over the cheekbones and eyebrows and behind and around the eyes. The most common symptoms of nasal sinus congestion are a stuffy nose or pressure on one side of the face. Puffiness in one eye can also be a symptom. Headaches can be both a symptom and a cause of nasal sinus congestion.
The reason that the lining of the sinus cavity becomes swollen is because of inflamed blood vessels and buildup of fluid. This can be caused by many things. The most common causes are sinus infections, the common cold, the flu, allergies and sinus polyps. Other possible causes of nasal sinus congestion are medication side effects, asthma, spicy foods, bright light and stress, to name a few. Sometimes, congestion can occur for no apparent reason at all. Nasal sinus congestion might or might not be accompanied by a mucus discharge.
The treatment for nasal sinus congestion varies depending upon the cause. For example, if the congestion is because of viral sinusitis, which is often part of the common cold, it can be treated with nasal washes, but because it is a virus, it can not be cured. Antibiotics can be used to treat bacterial sinusitis, which occurs in about 5 percent of colds.
Over-the-counter medications such as antihistamines can often be used to treat allergic sinusitis. Another remedy that can help ease the symptoms of congestion is using a humidifier if the air is dry. Keeping the nasal passages moist can often reduce nasal sinus congestion.
Nasal sinus congestion is often worse when the affected person is lying down, so keeping the head upright can also help ease the symptoms. If it is severe enough, it can disrupt sleep. The congestion might be attributed to some sleep problems, such as snoring and, in more severe cases, sleep apnea. Nasal washes and nasal strips can sometimes be used to reduce these problems.
Although it generally is not considered a serious health problem for adults, nasal sinus congestion can become serious. In children, it can cause problems with hearing and speech development. In babies, it can cause breathing and nursing problems, because babies generally breathe only through their nose. If someone has persistent congestion, he or she should be checked to see if nasal allergies are the cause.