Blocked nose at night: causes and treatment

Having a blocked nose at night can be very uncomfortable and can disrupt your sleep. It can make it difficult to breathe and can cause snoring.

In this article, we will look at the possible causes of a blocked nose at night, also known as "night-time nasal congestion", and how to prevent it for a better quality of sleep.

Why do I have a blocked nose at night?

Night-time nasal congestion can have many different causes. Allergens such as pollen, dust, dust mites and animal dander can cause inflammation of the nasal mucosa, which can lead to nasal congestion.

Dry air in your room can also cause nasal congestion. When the air is too dry, it can dry out the mucous membranes of the nose, which can cause congestion. Smoking, infection, colds and sinusitis can also cause nasal congestion at night.

How to avoid a blocked nose at night?

There are several ways to prevent a blocked nose at night and improve your quality of sleep.

• Humidify the air in your room: By using a humidifier, you can increase the humidity in your room, which can help relieve nasal congestion. Humidifiers can also help prevent dry mouth and throat.
• Use extra pillows: Elevating your head with extra pillows can help prevent nighttime nasal congestion by preventing fluid from accumulating in your sinuses.
• Clean your room regularly: Eliminate allergens such as dust and animal dander by cleaning your room regularly. Use a hoover with a HEPA filter to capture allergens.
• Use nose drops: Decongestant nose drops can help reduce nasal congestion. However, do not use them for more than a few days at a time, as this can cause rebound congestion.

How to sleep well with a blocked nose at night?

If you have a blocked nose at night, it can be difficult to sleep comfortably. Here are some tips to help you sleep well despite a stuffy nose:

• Breathe through your mouth: If your nose is blocked, breathe through your mouth to make breathing easier. However, this can cause dry mouth, so make sure you drink enough water before sleeping.
• Use a saline nasal spray: Saline nasal sprays can help relieve nasal congestion and moisturise the nasal mucosa.
• Take a hot shower: Take a hot shower before bed to help relieve nasal congestion and relax.

In summary, there are many ways to prevent night time nasal congestion and improve your quality of sleep. If you continue to have problems with night time nasal congestion, consult a health care professional to determine the underlying cause.