You’re probably looking for a magic pill that will solve your nasal congestion problem right away, but first you need to identify what type of nasal problem you have. If you don’t identify the problem, then you won’t be able to apply the right solution. For example, many people who have swollen nasal glands run out and purchase common cold medicine that kills mucous (boogers). This does nothing to help their nasal congestion and they quickly become frustrated. Take some time to figure out what your problem is and then you’ll be able to find the right nasal congestion relief treatment.
People experience nasal congestion at various times throughout their life. It is most often associated with an illness such as a cold or flu. However, there are other factors that can cause or exacerbate this condition. Identifying the chronic (continuing) versus acute (temporary) causes can help you treat the problem effectively.
Increased Mucous Production
Many times the source of nasal problems is increased mucous production. The body will increase mucous production to help relieve irritation in the nasal and sinus cavity linings. There are various prescriptions, over the counter drugs, and home remedies for nasal congestion that can help alleviate or lessen the symptoms of increase mucous production.
Swollen Nasal Glands
Sometimes when a person gets sick, their nasal glands swell. This can be very frustrating because most medicines are designed to help manage the mucous production, but they do little in the way of helping manage your swollen nasal glands. This is why you can still feel congested even though your nose is relatively mucous free. The best idea is to visit the doctor and get some medicine that can help you overcome the sickness. Once the sickness is gone, your nasal congestion problem should be gone as well. However, if you are going to buy an over-the-counter product for your cold and cough, try to find one that mentions helping with swollen glands.
Injuries and Growth Defects
Some sufferers have a physical defect that causes chronic congestion. Deviated septums, congenital birth defects, broken noses and other injuries can block the nasal passages. It is the blockage that causes the congestion, versus increased mucous production. Injuries will usually heal, and the problem will resolve. However, if the injury is not properly attended to it can heal with the blockage intact causing a permanent problem. Surgical intervention may be necessary to correct birth defects or poorly healed injuries. It’s worth mentioning that common over-the-counter medicine isn’t going to help you here.
Allergies
Allergic reactions can also cause congestion. The nasal passages swell in response to an allergen. These swollen passages restrict airflow and present as congestion to the person. Allergens can come in a variety of forms such as environmental and medicinal. It is crucial to identify the allergen in order to eliminate it. Antihistamines can help temporarily. Common causes include feather pillows, pet hair, dust, and fabric fibers. There are also chemical and drug allergies that can cause this response.
Pregnancy
Pregnant women can have chronic nasal congestion. It is related to the increased amount of blood volume they experience. This increase in volume causes veins in the nasal area to become engorged. These engorged veins create a physical blockage that restricts air flow. Body positioning can help provide some relief.
Overuse of medications is a widespread problem, especially nasal sprays. People suffering from congestion are desperate to find relief. Instead of identifying the cause they turn to the quick relief provided by sprays. These products are acceptable to use for three to five days, but past this, they have a rebound effect. With the rebound effect, the person uses the spray for congestion relief. The swollen nasal passages shrink increasing air flow. The problem is that the body quickly adjusts to the chemicals in the spray. The result is the nasal passages stay open for a short period of time then swell back up. The swelling, or rebound, occurs after a short period of relief and the air restriction is worse than it was. In response, the person uses the spray more often, creating a vicious cycle.
Identifying the cause of nasal congestion is the foundation for effective treatment. It takes time and effort but is worth the long term relief that can be achieved through proper treatment. No one has to live with the discomfort of nasal congestion. They just have to be smart in how they treat it effectively.
Humidifiers 
Colds can strike at the most inconvenient times. Waking up in the middle of the night with nasal congestion is miserable because you don’t have the energy or desire to start investigating the cause, or run to the store for medications. You just needs relief, so you can go back to sleep.
Young children and infants often experience nasal congestion probably because they are frequently exposed to viruses and bacteria through daycare and school. Finding 
Allergic reactions can also be the source of the swollen tissues. Common household allergens include dust, pets, and feather pillows. Food allergies could also be the source. Determining the source of an allergy takes time and persistence. Pick one item to eliminate from the child’s environment, such as a feather pillow. Wash all the bed linens, including the bedspread or comforter. Replace the pillow with a hypoallergenic version, then see if the symptoms resolve. If congestion does not resolve after a week try another item. If parents try taking away multiple items at once, they will be unable to determine the culprit.
Dealing effectively with chronic nasal congestion can improve the life of those who suffer from this frustrating condition. A lot of information is available on how to determine the cause of the congestion. While this is an essential step, many sufferers also seek a long term remedy that can bring relief.