What is the primary characteristic of coryza?

Coryza is primarily characterized by congestion of the nasal passages, which manifests as a runny or blocked nose, often accompanied by sneezing and nasal irritation. This symptom is a result of inflammation caused by viral infections, such as the common cold or allergies. The nasal congestion is due to the swelling of the nasal mucosa and increased mucus production.

While fever and chills, extreme fatigue, and persistent coughing may accompany respiratory illnesses, they are not defining features of coryza itself. In particular, fever and chills tend to suggest a more systemic infection, while extreme fatigue can be related to various conditions but is not specific to coryza. Persistent coughing is also commonly associated with respiratory infections but does not capture the essence of coryza, which focuses specifically on the inflammation of the nasal passages and the resultant symptoms of nasal obstruction and discharge.