Common cold and a stuffy nose: what to know

Cold viruses irritate the lining inside the nose. Blood flow and inflammation make that lining swell, while mucus becomes harder to clear. You may breathe through your mouth, notice reduced taste, or feel pressure around the cheeks. A blocked nose can occur with a runny nose, sore throat, or cough. A stuffy nose is a common presentation of the Common Cold, but congestion can also occur with Sinusitis or Allergic Rhinitis-like irritation. Ear pressure can happen when congestion affects the passage that ventilates the middle ear.

Rest and drink fluids regularly. Saline nasal drops or spray can loosen mucus; use them as directed on the product label. Breathing humid air may feel soothing, but avoid burns from very hot steam. Raising your head slightly while resting can make nasal breathing easier. A pharmacist can help you choose a decongestant if it is suitable for your age, pregnancy status, blood pressure, and other medicines. Do not use a medicated nasal decongestant longer than the label allows, because congestion can rebound. Wash hands, cover coughs, and avoid sharing towels while you are unwell.

Seek urgent help for severe breathing difficulty, blue or grey lips, confusion, or sudden swelling of the face or throat. Arrange medical advice if symptoms are worsening rather than easing, you develop marked facial pain, a persistent high fever, severe dehydration, or significant ear pain. A clinician can assess whether another problem, such as Sinusitis or a Middle Ear Infection, needs treatment. Children with a barking cough or noisy breathing should be assessed promptly because Croup needs different care.

Could another condition explain my blocked nose? Which saline or decongestant option fits my medicines? What signs would mean I need review?