What should you know about nose block due to cold?

A common cold inflames the lining inside the nose. The tissue swells and produces mucus, narrowing the passages and making nasal breathing harder. You may also have sneezing, a sore throat, cough or a reduced sense of smell. Symptoms can feel worse when lying down because mucus drains less easily. Allergic rhinitis can look similar but often brings itching, repeated sneezing or symptoms linked to a particular environment. Sinusitis may cause facial pressure, thick discharge or a change in smell. A cold is not the only explanation for every blocked nose, especially when one side stays closed or symptoms continue after the rest of the illness has improved.

Rest, drink fluids and use saline spray to loosen mucus. A warm shower or humidified air may feel soothing, but avoid burns from hot steam. Blow the nose gently, one side at a time, and wash your hands after wiping. A pharmacist can advise on suitable pain relief or other cold remedies based on your health and current medicines. Do not combine several products with the same ingredient, and follow package directions for any decongestant. Antibiotics do not treat the viruses that cause ordinary colds.

Arrange medical advice if blockage lasts beyond the illness, repeatedly returns, is mainly on one side, or comes with persistent facial pain, fever, worsening symptoms or reduced smell. Seek urgent help for severe breathing difficulty, swelling around the eye, confusion, a severe headache with neck stiffness or a serious injury. If snoring, gasping or daytime sleepiness continues after the cold resolves, ask about obstructive sleep apnoea.

Does this still fit a common cold, or should allergies or sinusitis be considered? Which nasal products are suitable with my medicines? How long should I wait before arranging a review?