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Types of Congestion

A build-up of fluid or swollen tissue in the body, particularly the lungs or nasal cavities, is referred to as congestion. Congestion can be an annoying and uncomfortable condition at best and quite serious at worst. Types of congestion include nasal congestion, congestion of the lungs and congestive heart disease.

  1. Nasal Congestion

    • Nasal congestion, also known as a stuffy nose or nasal blockage, is a common type of congestion. It may be accompanied by a runny nose. Nasal congestion can be caused by a virus, such as the cold or flu, allergies, bacteria or a sinus infection. The infection, not an excess of mucus, causes the blood vessels inside the nose to become inflamed and the interior lining of the nose to swell. While nasal congestion is at the very least irritating, it can also lead to snoring, sleep apnea, sleeping difficulties, headaches and hearing difficulties.

    Congestion of the Lungs

    • Lung congestion, also known as pulmonary edema, is a condition in which the air sacs in the lungs are filled with an excessive amount of fluid, thus leading to shortness of breath. When someone experiences a heart attack or heart failure, the pressure in the veins increases. Fluid enters the air sacs in the lungs and they are unable to transfer oxygen efficiently. In addition to heart failure, lung congestion can also be caused by a serious infection in the lungs, exercising in a high-altitude location or as a side effect of medication. Symptoms include shortness of breath, excessive sweating, feeling like you are drowning and coughing up blood.

    Congestive Heart Disease

    • The human heart is designed to pump blood through the body. If the heart is not functioning properly, organs and tissues will not receive oxygen and nutrients and waste products will build up. Congestive heart failure occurs when the heart does not work properly. The heart muscles weaken and they cannot pump enough blood to fill the heart chambers or to empty the pumping chambers. Excess fluid in the lungs and swelling in the legs or ankles are common side effects of congestive heart failure. Other symptoms of congestive heart failure include having difficultly breathing and weight gain that is due to the build-up of fluid.

    Considerations

    • There are varying degrees of severity of nasal congestion, congestion of the lungs and congestive heart failure. Mild cases of each can usually be treated easily. However, it is important to be aware that each condition can become very serious if left untreated. An individual's specific circumstances should also be taken into consideration. For instance, an infant would be more affected by nasal congestion than an adult since infants primarily breathe through their noses. Please consult with a medical professional with any questions or concerns.

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