Blocked nose is one of the common challenges during infancy and childhood. It can be due to allergy or infection or enlargement of adenoid glands. Stuffy nose occurs not due to the formation of thickened mucus but due to the inflammation/swelling of lining of nasal membranes. The blood vessels of the nasal lining get inflamed due to infection or allergy and block the passage of mucus. This causes nasal congestion.
Functions Of Nose :
Nose is equipped with two openings called nostrils and a septum lying between them. Number of small pockets is present inside your face known as sinus cavities. Nose is responsible not only for smelling but it also does the function of tasting and breathing. Nose contains plenty of small hairs which act as a defense system purifying the air that we inhale. As the air passes through the nose, it enters the olfactory system which in turn sends signals to the brain to identify the smell and taste.
Mucus is basically made of water and protein particles and some salts and in normal condition it is clear. But the mucus changes its texture and color during an infection. The color of the mucus changes to green or yellow or brown during an infection. Defense mechanism of the body produces a chemical to fight the pathogens causing change in color of mucus.
Air contains plenty of dust, pollens, spores, chemical fumes, pollutants and germs. Nose actually filters the air before sending it to the lungs. Impurities are expelled by the body in the form of sneezing and coughing. In case the impure air accidentally enters the lungs the body’s immune system releases “histamine” which increases blood flow to the nasal tissues. Because of swelling normal mucus flow is interrupted causing nasal congestion. Nasal blockage is a symptom and is not a disease. However babies can get affected largely due to nasal congestion. It can cause breathing difficulties and reduced feeding.
Nasal Congestion Symptoms :