Itchy throat and blocked nose at night

Lying down can make mucus drain towards the throat and make congestion feel more noticeable. Allergic rhinitis or house dust mite allergy may flare in a bedroom, particularly with dust, bedding or poor ventilation. A common cold or sinusitis can also block the nose; facial pressure, coloured discharge or reduced smell may provide useful context. Loud snoring, pauses in breathing or marked daytime sleepiness should be discussed because obstructive sleep apnoea can affect nighttime breathing.

Keep the bedroom free of smoke and strong scents, drink fluids and consider saline nasal rinsing if a pharmacist or clinician has shown you how to use it safely. Wash bedding as directed and reduce visible dust. Sleep slightly raised if that is comfortable. Ask a pharmacist about allergy medication or nasal products; use decongestant sprays only as directed because prolonged use can worsen blockage.

Get urgent help for severe breathing difficulty, blue lips, confusion, sudden facial or throat swelling, or inability to swallow. Seek prompt care for severe facial pain, swelling around an eye, a stiff neck or rapidly worsening illness. Arrange a review if blockage lasts, repeatedly disturbs sleep, or comes with snoring and breathing pauses.

Ask whether the pattern suggests allergy, sinus inflammation or another cause, and whether your nasal passages need examination. Mention bedroom conditions, snoring, mouth breathing, daytime tiredness, medicines and how long the nighttime pattern has continued.