Congestion & Stuffy Nose

What Is Nasal Congestion?

Nasal congestion—commonly referred to as a stuffy or blocked nose—occurs when the tissues and blood vessels inside the nose become swollen and inflamed. This swelling restricts airflow and creates a persistent sensation of nasal blockage, pressure or difficulty breathing.

Nasal congestion is widespread. Studies show that nearly one in four U.S. adults experiences chronic nasal congestion daily. While short-term congestion often resolves on its own, ongoing symptoms may indicate an underlying condition—such as chronic rhinitis—that requires expert evaluation.

At the practice of Dr. Pablo Stolovitzky, we specialize in identifying the root cause of nasal congestion. With convenient offices in Atlanta (St. Joseph’s), Decatur and Snellville, we offer personalized treatments designed to help you breathe comfortably again.

Common Causes of a Blocked Nose

Nasal congestion can result from a wide range of conditions, which Dr. Stolovitzky categorizes into inflammatory and structural issues:

• Infections: Colds, flu or acute sinusitis.
• Allergies: Environmental triggers like pollen, dust, mold or pet dander.
• Structural Issues: A deviated septum, nasal polyps or enlarged turbinates.
• Chronic Rhinitis: Overactive nerves that trigger constant congestion or drainage.
• Environmental Irritants: Exposure to tobacco smoke or dry air.

When Should I See an ENT for Congestion?

A stuffy nose often improves within a few days. However, you should seek medical attention if:

• Symptoms last longer than 7–10 days.
• Congestion is persistent, worsening or interfering with sleep.
• Nasal drainage becomes green, yellow or bloody.
• You experience facial pain or pressure that does not respond to over-the-counter medicine.

Innovative In-Office Treatment: RhinAer®

For patients with chronic congestion due to non-allergic or allergic rhinitis, symptoms are often driven by overactive nerve signals rather than infection alone.

RhinAer® is an innovative, in-office procedure that uses temperature-controlled radiofrequency energy to gently disrupt these overactive nerve signals—without surgery or incisions. As a lead researcher in the clinical trials for this technology, Dr. Stolovitzky offers unparalleled expertise in this treatment.

Benefits of RhinAer® Include:

• Significant Relief: Targets both congestion and chronic runny nose.
• Non-Invasive: No cutting, implants or external changes to the nose.
• Quick Recovery: Performed under local anesthesia with a same-day return to normal activities.
• Proven Results: Clinical studies demonstrate significant symptom improvement in up to 96% of patients.

Neuromark® Procedure for Chronic Rhinitis

For select patients, the Neuromark® procedure offers another advanced, in-office solution. By targeting the posterior nasal nerve with precise, low-temperature energy, Neuromark® reduces the abnormal signaling that causes persistent congestion and excessive mucus.

Conservative and Medical Treatments

For mild or intermittent symptoms, Dr. Stolovitzky may recommend a stepwise approach starting with:

• Nasal Steroid Sprays: To reduce internal inflammation
• Antihistamines: To manage allergy-driven symptoms
• Saline Irrigations: To clear irritants and moisten the airway

Expert Care for Nasal Airway Conditions in Georgia

If nasal congestion is interfering with your quality of life, expert help is available. Dr. Pablo Stolovitzky is a nationally and internationally recognized rhinology specialist with decades of experience. By combining advanced diagnostic tools, like nasal endoscopy, with the latest in-office therapies, he ensures each patient receives the most effective, least invasive care possible.