Blockage of the nasal passages. Common causes of nasal obstruction in adults are irregular septum, enlarged turbinates, and nasal polyps. In children, a common cause is a foreign body, such as food, buttons, or pins. Complications such as infections, sinusitis, and otitis may develop.
Obstruction of one or both sides of the nasal passage, hindering normal breathing, is referred to as nasal congestion. This condition is often triggered by inflammation of the mucous membrane that lines the passage. Other factors encompass a deviated nasal septum, nasal polyps, a hematoma (accumulation of clotted blood) typically stemming from an injury, and in rare instances, a malignant tumor. In children, adenoid enlargement is a prevalent contributor to nasal blockage.