Why have I been congested for so long?
Some explanations for long-term nasal congestion may be: allergies. hay fever. noncancerous growths, called nasal polyps, or benign tumors in the nasal passages.
Can congestion last for weeks?
These symptoms usually peak in the first 3 to 5 days and then improve gradually. Most people do not have symptoms past 10 days to 2 weeks. Symptoms of a sinus infection may be more severe and can last for 4 weeks or longer.
How long does cold congestion last?
If you have a cold, you may experience a variety of symptoms that last for around 7 to 10 days. These symptoms may include: a runny nose. congestion.
How long should you have congestion before seeing a doctor?
Knowing when to call your physician or an ear, nose, and throat doctor about congestion is crucial when it comes to preventing more serious conditions from developing. Many health experts say that you don’t need to call your doctor about congestion until after you’ve had symptoms for 10 to 14 days.
Why are my lungs always congested?
Chest congestion can be caused by any number of issues, including acid reflux, allergies, asthma, bronchitis, COPD, cystic fibrosis, pneumonia, respiratory infections, tuberculosis and other pulmonary conditions.
Why do I sound congested when I’m not?
A hyponasal voice is usually due to a blockage in the nose. That blockage can be temporary — such as when you have a cold, sinus infection, or allergies. Or, it can be caused by a more permanent structural problem such as: large tonsils or adenoids.
Why would a sinus infection not go away?
It’s possible for an acute sinus infection to develop into a chronic infection over time. However, most chronic sinus infections are caused by: Problems with the physical structure of your sinuses such as nasal polyps, narrow sinuses, or a deviated septum. Allergies such as hay fever that cause inflammation.
Why has my nose been congested for months?
Chronic sinusitis occurs when the spaces inside your nose and head (sinuses) are swollen and inflamed for three months or longer, despite treatment. This common condition interferes with the way mucus normally drains, and makes your nose stuffy.
Can you still have a sinus infection with clear mucus?
But “you can have perfectly clear mucus and have a terrible ear and sinus infection,” Kao says. If you do have an infection, you‘ll likely also have other symptoms, such as congestion, fever, and pressure in your face, overlying the sinuses, Johns says.
How do you know when your body is fighting a cold?
The most common symptoms to look out for during this stage of a cold are:
- sore throat.
- cough.
- congestion or runny nose.
- fatigue.
- aches.
- chills or low-grade fever.
Does coughing up phlegm mean your getting better?
Coughing and blowing your nose are the best ways to help mucus fight the good fight. “Coughing is good,” Dr. Boucher says. “When you cough up mucus when you are sick, you are essentially clearing the bad guys—viruses or bacteria—from your body.”
Is it possible to have a cold for months?
“Typically symptoms are present for weeks to months, and there may be no other symptoms although some people may have generalized weakness, decreased appetite, shortness of breath, and weight loss,” she says. As a precaution, always make an appointment with your doctor to rule out such a serious diagnosis.
What is congestion a symptom of?
Nasal congestion can be caused by anything that irritates or inflames the nasal tissues. Infections — such as colds, flu or sinusitis — and allergies are frequent causes of nasal congestion and runny nose. Sometimes a congested and runny nose can be caused by irritants such as tobacco smoke and car exhaust.
Why won’t my sinus infection go away with antibiotics?
A bacterial or viral infection can also trigger the condition. The infection is often low grade. The bacteria confine themselves in stubborn “biofilms,” making it difficult for your immune system or antibiotics to find and attack them.
How do you know if a sinus infection has spread to your brain?
Encephalitis: This results when the infection spreads to your brain tissue. Encephalitis may not have obvious symptoms beyond a headache, fever, or weakness. But more severe cases can lead to confusion, hallucinations, seizures, difficulty speaking, paralysis, or loss consciousness.