Why does the body, as a self defensive response to some sicknesses, swell the nose so you can’t breathe?

Question

Why does the body, as a self defensive response to some sicknesses, swell the nose so you can’t breathe?

In: Biology

Answer 1

If swelling is our natural defense mechanism then how come we (medical professionals, general population, etc) always try to prevent or minimize the swelling from happening? (Eg: put ice on it to make the swelling go down/away etc)