Nasal congestion, or “stuffy nose,” is a term that refers to an obstruction to the flow of air in and out of the nose. In contrast, the term “runny nose” refers to a discharge (fluid) that comes from the nostrils.

Less commonly, anatomical obstructions (eg, a deviated nasal septum, foreign bodies) can lead to nasal congestion.
In rare cases, tumors of the nasal passages or chronic medical conditions can be the cause of nasal congestion.