Relieving Nasal Congestion Caused by Allergies

A blocked nose develops when the nasal lining swells after contact with a trigger such as pollen, house dust mites, mould or animal dander. Treatment works better when it targets this inflammation rather than relying only on short-lived decongestion.

Allergic rhinitis often presents with congestion alongside sneezing, an itchy nose and clear discharge. Symptoms may follow a seasonal pattern or continue indoors when dust mites, pets or mould are triggers. Swollen nasal tissue narrows the air passages and can disturb sleep, smell and comfortable mouth-closed breathing.

Congestion with fever, facial pain, thick discoloured mucus or a sudden illness pattern may fit an infection better. Persistent blockage mainly on one side, repeated nosebleeds or loss of smell also merits examination rather than repeated self-treatment.

Reduce exposure where practical: shower and change clothes after heavy pollen exposure, keep bedroom surfaces easy to clean, and address visible dampness. A saline spray or rinse can clear mucus and allergens; prepare rinses only with sterile, distilled, or previously boiled and cooled water, and clean the device after use.

A pharmacist can help select an antihistamine or anti-inflammatory nasal spray based on your symptoms and health history. Spray away from the central nasal wall and use it consistently as directed. Decongestant sprays can cause rebound blockage when used longer than instructed, while oral decongestants may be unsuitable with high blood pressure, heart conditions or certain medicines.

Seek urgent help for severe difficulty breathing, swelling of the tongue or throat, faintness or rapidly worsening wheeze. Prompt assessment is also appropriate for swelling around an eye, severe headache, confusion, neck stiffness or a very unwell feeling with sinus symptoms.

Arrange a routine appointment when blockage disrupts sleep, persists despite correctly used treatment, recurs without a clear trigger or remains mainly on one side. Loud snoring, witnessed pauses in breathing or marked daytime sleepiness should be discussed because nasal blockage may worsen sleep-related breathing problems.

Explain whether the blockage changes by season, room, workplace or animal exposure, and mention sleep disruption, facial discomfort and reduced smell. Useful questions include which nasal spray technique to use, whether current medicines could worsen congestion, and whether an allergy assessment or examination of the nasal passages is appropriate.