If you experience prolonged and recurrent unilateral nasal congestion, it is advisable to consult an ear, nose, and throat specialist rather than relying solely on medication. While most symptoms are benign, effective treatment requires identifying the correct underlying cause. Medical attention is also necessary if symptoms persist for several weeks, recur frequently, do not respond to common medications, or are accompanied by foul-smelling discharge, nosebleeds, or a reduced or lost sense of smell.

Unilateral nasal congestion is a common symptom, often linked to allergies or rhinitis due to weather changes or exposure to smoke and dust. It can present with a runny nose, sneezing, nasal itching, sleep disturbances like difficulty sleeping, snoring, and sleep apnea, or even nosebleeds. When it occurs for a few days during a cold or flu, it is usually not a cause for concern.

Causes of unilateral nasal congestion are diverse. These include a deviated nasal septum, nasal foreign bodies, chronic rhinitis with polyps, turbinate hypertrophy, rhinosinusitis, and prolonged allergic rhinitis. In a few cases, nasal or nasopharyngeal tumors can also cause this symptom.

Doctor Nguyen Trung Nguyen consulting a patient. Illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital.

Unilateral nasal congestion often worsens when lying on one side, particularly for individuals with allergies or rhinosinusitis. In this position, the nasal lining on the lower side can become congested and swollen due to venous circulation, intensifying the feeling of stuffiness. To alleviate symptoms, some helpful tips include keeping the body warm, clearing nasal passages, consuming foods rich in vitamin C, staying hydrated, and increasing air humidity.

Dr. Nguyen Trung Nguyen

Center for Ear, Nose, and Throat

Tam Anh General Hospital, TP HCM