Get Nasal Congestion Treatment at Home, Prescribed Online
- Talk to a doctor from anywhere (no office visits!) in minutes
- Get medications prescribed for pickup nearby
- Save time, money, and the overall hassle
Understanding Nasal Congestion
Nasal congestion is a common condition in which the nasal passages become swollen and inflamed, making it difficult to breathe through the nose. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including allergies, colds, sinus infections, and nasal polyps.
If you’re experiencing nasal congestion, LifeMD can help. You may be prescribed medications such as nasal sprays, decongestants, antihistamines, or corticosteroids, depending on the cause and severity of your symptoms.
In some cases, your doctor may recommend additional tests to determine the cause of your nasal congestion. By working with a doctor, you can develop a treatment plan that’s tailored to your individual needs and effectively manages your nasal congestion.
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How It Works
1. Schedule
Book a telehealth appointment from wherever you are. No insurance necessary.
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2. Chat
Meet with a board-certified doctor or nurse practitioner from your mobile device.
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3. Pick It Up
Get a prescription if needed (save up to 90%), and pick it up at your pharmacy.
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Medications Prescribed for Nasal Congestion
Fexofenadine/pseudoephedrine (Allegra-D)
A combination antihistamine and decongestant used to relieve symptoms of seasonal allergies and nasal congestion, such as runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, and sinus pressure.
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Fluticasone (Flonase, Flovent, others)
A nasal spray that contains a low-dose corticosteroid and saline solution. It is used to treat nasal congestion, runny nose, and sneezing.
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Amoxicillin/potassium clavulanate (Augmentin, others)
A combination penicillin-type antibiotic used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections. This may be prescribed if nasal congestion is the result of a sinus infection.
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Our Patients Are Our Top Priority
“Dr. Puopolo is a very knowledgeable doctor with vast experience in different medical fields. I feel I am in good hands.”
“Dr. Sehgal was amazing! Super helpful. She was answering my questions before I even asked. Very happy I picked her.”
“Great experience!! Never have done online telehealth before but for sure will again :)”
"The appointment went great. It was quick and easy, and the doctor was right on top of things!"
“Dr. Culpepper was amazing. He explained things to me that I didn’t understand.”
Names redacted to protect patient privacy.
Common Questions About Nasal Congestion
Nasal congestion, also known as a stuffy or blocked nose, is oftentimes caused by inflammation and swelling of the nasal passages. This can be triggered by a variety of factors, such as viral or bacterial infections (the common cold or a sinus infection, for example), seasonal allergies, irritants (such as smoke or strong odors), and even certain medications. The swollen nasal passages can restrict airflow, leading to difficulty in breathing through the nose and a sensation of congestion.
Yes, changes in weather can cause a stuffy nose. Cold, dry air – or sudden weather fluctuations – can dry out nasal passages or constrict blood vessels, leading to nasal congestion. Weather-related allergens like pollen or mold spores can trigger nasal congestion as well. Some people may be more susceptible to experiencing a stuffy nose due to weather changes than others.
A stuffy nose can be caused by a variety of factors such as colds, allergies, a sinus infection, or even dry air. Therefore, the duration of a stuffy nose will vary depending on the underlying cause and individual factors. In many cases, a stuffy nose resolves on its own while in other cases, it may persist for a longer period of time or require treatment with over-the-counter nasal decongestants or prescription medications.
If you’re concerned about the duration of your stuffy nose or if it’s accompanied by severe symptoms or complications, be sure to consult with a licensed health provider.
Nasal congestion at night can happen for a variety of reasons. When you lie down, increased blood flow to the nasal passages – as well as gravity – can cause nasal tissues to swell, resulting in congestion. Allergens in the bedroom (such as dust mites, pet dander, or pollen) can also trigger nasal congestion. Dry indoor air (which is common during winter when heating is used) can dry out the nasal passages, leading to congestion as well.
Using a humidifier, elevating your head during sleep, and avoiding allergens can help alleviate nasal congestion at night.
In some cases, nasal congestion can be a symptom of a more serious condition, such as chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, or other underlying medical conditions. If nasal congestion persists or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, be sure to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the cause.
Nasal congestion can sometimes be a symptom of COVID-19. COVID-19 can present with a wide range of symptoms, including nasal congestion or stuffy nose, along with cough and sore throat. Keep in mind that nasal congestion can also be caused by other conditions such as colds, allergies, sinusitis, or respiratory infections – so it's not always specific to COVID-19.
Yes, nasal congestion can sometimes cause a temporary loss of taste. When the nasal passages are congested due to conditions such as colds, allergies, sinusitis, or respiratory infections, the ability to smell can be affected – which can impact sense of taste. The sense of taste is closely linked to the sense of smell, and when the ability to smell is compromised, it can lead to a diminished sense of taste.
Once nasal congestion clears, sense of taste typically returns to normal. If your loss of taste persists or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, be sure to consult with a healthcare provider for a proper evaluation and diagnosis.
Licensed Professionals Helping Patients Like You
Banita Sehgal, DO MPH
Family Medicine
Dr. Sehgal is board certified in internal medicine and has been practicing medicine for over 22 years. Before transitioning to telehealth, she worked mainly with a multi-specialty healthcare Group, providing individualized care to over 2,200 patients.
Book AppointmentJonathan Guirguis, DO
Internal Medicine
Dr. Guirguis earned his D.O. from Nova Southeastern University, College of Osteopathic Medicine. He’s board-certified in Internal Medicine and has a special interest in preventive medicine and nutrition.
Book AppointmentNicole Baldwin, APRN
Family Medicine
Nicole is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in Urgent Care, Primary Care, Men’s Health, Women’s Health, and Orthopedic Trauma. During the height of the pandemic, she took time off from her regular position to take on a COVID-19 ICU assignment. Nicole has been working with patients for 15 years.
Book AppointmentAsunta Moduthagam, MD
Family Medicine
Dr. Moduthagam is a board certified physician in Family Medicine. She received a B.S. degree in Biochemistry from the University of Illinois in Chicago, Illinois before pursuing her medical studies. She is dedicated to thoughtful, insightful patient care.
Book AppointmentDavid Culpepper, MD FACP
Internal Medicine
Dr. Culpepper has been practicing General Internal Medicine for over 30 years and is guided by his passion to help his patients live healthier lives. He is board-certified in Internal Medicine and also holds a professional degree in pharmacy.
Book AppointmentHarmony Vance, APRN
Family Medicine
Harmony has been caring for patients for more than 20 years in various roles in the medical field. In 2018, she graduated with a Master’s of Science Degree with a specialization in Family Nursing.
Book AppointmentPayel Gupta, MD, FACAAI
Allergy, Asthma & Immunology; Internal Medicine; Pediatrics
Dr. Gupta is triple board-certified in Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology; Internal Medicine; and Pediatrics. With a deep interest in global health, she’s volunteered her skills in Liberia, Nepal, India, Haiti, Tanzania, Peru, and Honduras. Dr. Gupta has been practicing medicine for 14 years.
Book AppointmentJackie Rosenhein, APRN
Family Medicine
Jackie has worked in healthcare for 30+ years. After serving as a Registered Nurse for over 20 years, she earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice in 2018. Jackie has experience in Primary Care, Wound Care/Dermatology, Women's and Men's Health, and Urgent Care.
Book AppointmentAnthony Puopolo, MD
Family Medicine
Dr. Puopolo earned his M.D. from the Boston University School of Medicine. He later completed a combined Family Medicine and Psychiatry residency program in the U.S. Army at Tripler Army Medical Center in Hawaii. Dr. Puopolo has been practicing medicine for 22 years.
Book AppointmentDina Whiteaker, APRN
Family Medicine
Dina earned her BSN from Methodist College in Omaha. She later graduated from the University of Nebraska Medical Center with an MSN and went on to become a family nurse practitioner. Dina has been working with patients for 12 years.
Book AppointmentLaurenmarie Cormier, NP
Family Medicine
Laurenmarie began her career as an ER nurse at a level 1 trauma center before transitioning to telemedicine. With a deep foundation in this work, she supports programs that improve patient access to timely and effective care.
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