What causes nasal congestion with a burning sensation, and what should be done about it?

Nasal congestion and a burning sensation may be caused by environmental irritation, dietary factors, upper respiratory tract infections, rhinitis, or sinusitis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Environmental irritation: Prolonged exposure to dry environments—such as those created by extended air conditioning use—can reduce moisture in the air, leading to dryness of the nasal mucosa. Dry nasal mucosa is more susceptible to irritation, which may result in nasal congestion and a burning sensation. It is advisable to use a humidifier indoors to increase air humidity, or frequently wipe the nasal cavity with a wet towel to keep it moist, thereby helping to relieve discomfort.

2. Dietary irritation: Consuming excessive spicy or irritating foods—such as chili peppers, ginger, and alcohol—may cause dilation of blood vessels in the nasal cavity, leading to mucosal congestion and resulting in nasal congestion and a burning sensation. It is recommended to adjust the diet by reducing intake of irritating foods, maintaining a light diet, and consuming fresh vegetables such as radish, cabbage, and lettuce in moderation.

3. Upper respiratory tract infection: This is a common condition, often associated with viral or bacterial infections. When viruses or bacteria invade the upper respiratory tract, they can cause congestion and swelling of the nasal mucosa, along with increased secretions, leading to nasal congestion. Additionally, inflammation may cause a burning sensation in the nasal cavity. Patients may also experience symptoms such as headache and fever. It is recommended that patients take medications such as ibuprofen capsules, oseltamivir phosphate capsules, or ephedrine hydrochloride and diphenhydramine tablets as prescribed by a doctor.

4. Rhinitis: This may be related to allergen exposure or pathogen infection. The condition can lead to nasal mucosal congestion, swelling, and increased secretions, causing nasal congestion. Inflammation in the local area may also produce a burning sensation in the nasal cavity. Patients are advised to follow medical instructions and use medications such as rhinitis tablets, Biyuan Tongqiao granules, or Qianbai rhinitis tablets for treatment.

5. Sinusitis: This may be associated with large temperature fluctuations during seasonal changes or high psychological stress. Local inflammation can lead to increased secretions in the sinuses, blocking the sinus passages and resulting in nasal congestion and a burning sensation. Patients with sinusitis may also experience symptoms such as headache and purulent nasal discharge. It is recommended that patients use medications such as clindamycin hydrochloride tablets, azithromycin capsules, or cefixime capsules under a doctor’s guidance to improve symptoms.

In daily life, patients are advised to maintain good indoor ventilation, drink plenty of water, and use normal saline to clear nasal secretions, which may help support recovery.