5 Surefire Ways to Unblock Your Nose at Night

Do you know the frustration of waking up in the middle of the night with a stuffy nose? It can make it hard to breathe, fall asleep, and get a good night's rest. But don't despair! There are several effective ways to unblock your nose at night and get back to sleep. Here are five tips to try:

1. Use a nasal decongestant

Nasal decongestants are the most common way to unblock a stuffy nose. They work by shrinking the blood vessels in your nasal passages, which reduces swelling and makes it easier to breathe. Nasal decongestants come in several forms, including nasal sprays, drops, and pills. If you're using a nasal spray or drops, follow the directions on the package carefully. Do not use nasal decongestants for more than three days, as this can lead to rebound congestion.

2. Apply a warm compress

A warm compress can help to relieve congestion by increasing blood flow to your nasal passages. To make a warm compress, soak a washcloth in warm water and wring it out. Then, apply the compress to your face, over your nose. Leave the compress in place for 10-15 minutes or until it cools down.

3. Take a hot shower

The steam from a hot shower can help to thin mucus and make it easier to breathe. If you have a stuffy nose, try taking a hot shower before bed. The steam will help to open up your nasal passages and make it easier to fall asleep.

4. Use a saline nasal spray

A saline nasal spray can help to thin mucus and make it easier to blow your nose. Saline nasal sprays are available over-the-counter and are generally safe for use by adults and children. To use a saline nasal spray, spray one or two squirts into each nostril several times a day.

5. Elevate your head

Elevating your head can help to reduce congestion by promoting drainage. When you lie down, fluid can pool in your nasal passages and make it harder to breathe. To elevate your head, use pillows to prop yourself up. You can also try sleeping on your side with your head propped up on a pillow.

Additional tips for preventing a stuffy nose at night

In addition to the five tips listed above, there are other things you can do to prevent a stuffy nose at night.

• Use a humidifier in your bedroom. A humidifier can help to add moisture to the air, which can help to thin mucus and make it easier to breathe.
• Avoid sleeping on your back. When you sleep on your back, fluid can pool in your nasal passages and make it harder to breathe. Try sleeping on your side or stomach instead.
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine before bed. Alcohol and caffeine can both dehydrate you, which can worsen congestion.
• Get regular exercise. Regular exercise can help to improve your overall health and reduce your risk of developing allergies and colds, which can both lead to a stuffy nose.

References

1. [The National Institute of Health](https://www.nih.gov/health-information/respiratory-health/blocked-nose) 2. [The American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery](https://www.entnet.org/content/blocked-nose)