How to clear a stuffy nose

To clear a stuffy nose, reduce irritation, use saline safely and treat the underlying trigger instead of relying on forceful blowing. Relief may be temporary if a cold, allergy or sinus inflammation is still swelling the nasal lining.

The nose becomes congested when its lining swells or mucus becomes difficult to move. A Common Cold often causes this for a limited period. Allergic Rhinitis can bring sneezing, itch and watery discharge; House Dust Mite Allergy may be worse in dusty bedrooms. Sinusitis can add facial pressure or reduced smell, while Chronic Sinusitis causes longer-lasting or recurring symptoms.

A blocked nose can worsen at night and lead to mouth breathing. Obstructive Sleep Apnoea is a separate sleep-related condition, but loud snoring, gasping or witnessed breathing pauses should be mentioned to a clinician.

Try a saline spray or rinse using sterile, distilled or previously boiled and cooled water, and clean the device as directed. Blow gently through one nostril at a time. Drink fluids, rest, avoid smoke and reduce exposure to dust or strong scents. A warm shower may feel soothing, but avoid burns from hot steam. A pharmacist can discuss Allergy Medication or a decongestant; some products are unsuitable with high blood pressure, pregnancy, glaucoma or certain medicines, and nasal decongestant sprays should not be overused.

Seek medical advice when blockage lasts beyond the expected illness, repeatedly returns, affects one side, or disrupts sleep and daily activities. Get prompt care for severe facial pain, swelling, persistent fever, vision changes, foul-smelling discharge or significant bleeding. Urgent help is needed for severe breathing difficulty or swelling of the face, lips or throat.

Ask what is driving the congestion, whether an allergy assessment is useful, how long to use any spray, and which option is safe with your medicines and other health conditions.