Anything that irritates or inflames the nasal tissues might induce nasal congestion. Infections such as colds, flu or sinusitis, and allergies are common causes of nasal congestion and runny nose. Sometimes a stuffy and runny nose can be caused by irritants like tobacco smoke and car exhaust.
If you're ready to heat your congestion remedy, try hot teas, like chamomile and green tea, hot soups like chicken noodles, or a glass of hot water with a tablespoon of honey and a dash of lemon.
If your nasal congestion is due to a cold or the flu, it is likely to last as long as the cold or flu (five to 10 days) or even longer. If your nasal congestion is caused by allergies, it may stay longer depending on how much you've been exposed to the allergen.