Ways to clear a blocked nose

Nasal blockage happens when the lining inside the nose swells or mucus builds up. A common cold often improves as the infection settles. Allergic rhinitis can cause repeated congestion with sneezing or itchy, watery eyes, while sinusitis may bring facial pressure or thick discharge. Ongoing blockage can also disturb sleep; loud snoring or pauses in breathing deserve assessment for obstructive sleep apnoea.

Drink enough fluid for your needs and try a saline spray or rinse to loosen mucus; use sterile, distilled, or previously boiled and cooled water for a rinse. A warm shower and humidified room may feel soothing, but avoid burns from bowls of hot water. Rest with your head slightly raised. If allergies are likely, reduce exposure to known triggers and ask a pharmacist about suitable allergy medication. Decongestant sprays should only be used as directed and for a short period, because overuse can worsen congestion.

Arrange medical review if blockage lasts beyond a cold, repeatedly affects one side, or comes with recurrent facial pain, reduced smell, or troublesome sleep. Seek urgent help for severe headache, swelling around an eye, vision changes, stiff neck, confusion, or difficulty breathing. Children, pregnant people, and anyone with high blood pressure should check before using decongestants.

Does the pattern suggest allergy, sinusitis, or another cause? Which spray or medicine is suitable with my other conditions? How long should I continue it, and should I be assessed for sleep-related breathing problems?