Ailment

Nasal congestion

Line illustration of an older adult with a soft wash around the nasal area

A blocked or stuffy nose caused by swelling of the nasal lining, mucus, or both, commonly during a viral cold, allergies, or sinus inflammation.

The essentials

What to do first

For uncomplicated short-term congestion, use fluids, rest, a clean humidifier or cool-mist vaporizer, and saline nasal spray or drops. These measures can improve comfort while the underlying illness resolves. Menthol may make airflow feel easier without physically opening the nasal airway. Do not confuse symptom sensation with treatment of the underlying cause.

Self-care duration
Seek medical evaluation for trouble breathing, severe facial pain or swelling, dehydration, fever lasting more than 4 days, symptoms lasting more than 10 days without improvement, or symptoms that improve and then worsen. Earlier evaluation is appropriate for people at high risk from influenza or COVID-19 or when chronic conditions worsen.

Preparation-specific choices

What can I try?

Each finding belongs to the preparation and purpose shown. A different form of the same ingredient may have different research.

No preparation-specific findings published yet

This does not mean that no approaches exist or that they are ineffective.

Before choosing

Safety and context