constant congestion

hi im a 17 year old male and ive had this problem with my sinuses since i was small. i do have allergies to but I don't think thats what it is. what happens is almost every single day, every year im just conjested....even after I blow my nose less then 2 min later im fully congested again. now i realize i am a sickly child (i have a protein digestion problem and my diet is to say the least not very good so i get sick alot... i also have a zinc defency) but even when i feel fine i still always feel congested. i need and answer and a solution to my problem because my constant snoring and snorting is unbearable and embarrassing.

(iv never had my tonsils removed either and i heard that could help but i just want to see what i can do if i dont get my tonsols removed)

[Dr. Kokil Mathur]

Hi
Welcome to the forum!
Chronic congestion can be due to sinusitis, nasal polyps, asthma, allergic rhinitis or due to bronchitis. What is important is you must find out what is causing this allergy. Common allergens are pollen, mold, dust, pet dander, synthetic fiber, cosmetics or drugs. You must get an allergy test done, either a skin test or RAST, to know what you are allergic to. Deficiency to zinc makes body more susceptible to infection.
Hope this helps. Take care!

[JWFlorida]

Sounds like you have bad allergies.  The allergies can cause polyps, which further block your sinuses, block normal drainage, and can act as a breeding ground for infection.  Sinus infections are super stubborn and require long term antibiotics in some cases, in addition to surgery to remove blockages. I would get on some meds through your doc to see if your allergies can be treated.  An allergy test would be a good place to start.  Allergies can be very insidious.  They leave your nasal passages (and lungs) prone to infection because the natural cilia in the nose are left debilitated and the surface of your membranes are irritated and inflamed and the natural protection against infection weakened.  I would also consider irrigating your sinuses with something like a Neti Pot or (as I do) using a syringe with a rubber tip that fits on your nose. I bought mine at a health food store for 10 bucks.  You can buy a solution of non-iodized salt to make normal saline in order to avoid irritating your sinuses further.  Use cold water to help stop swelling.  I do this 3 times a day and it helps me a lot.  Good luck.