Tips to relieve stuffy nose and shortness of breath for a good night's sleep: 18 quick ways to clear your nose

Nasal congestion and difficulty breathing are conditions that almost everyone experiences at least once in their life, especially when they have a cold, allergic rhinitis, or weather changes. According to statistics, tens of millions of people worldwide suffer from allergic rhinitis every year, and nasal congestion is one of the most common symptoms, directly affecting sleep quality. When lying down, more blood rushes to the head area, making the nose more blocked, causing difficulty breathing, restless sleep, snoring, and waking up in the middle of the night.

If you are looking for ways to treat nasal congestion to sleep better or want to know safe home remedies for nasal congestion, this article will summarize simple, easy-to-apply methods suitable for each cause of nasal congestion. Tiptory will help you understand why this condition becomes more severe at night, and provide effective ways to breathe easier and get a full night's sleep.

Method 1: Elevate your head when sleeping

Elevate your head to relieve nasal congestion when sleeping

• If you have nasal congestion and difficulty breathing, use 2-3 pillows to raise your head and shoulders higher than your torso. This position helps mucus in the sinuses drain more easily, reducing stagnation that causes nasal blockage.
• The position recommended by many experts is lying on your back with your head elevated at an angle of about 30-45 degrees. This helps you breathe easier and reduces the need to wake up in the middle of the night due to nasal congestion.
• If you often toss and turn in your sleep, arrange your pillows firmly so that your head remains stable and supported throughout the night.

Support treatment for nasal congestion caused by various reasons

• Elevating the head is one of the simple but effective ways to treat nasal congestion, especially when nasal blockage is related to a cold, allergic rhinitis, or sinusitis.
• This method is also helpful for people with gastroesophageal reflux disease, as it limits acid reflux into the throat and nose when sleeping, thereby reducing respiratory irritation.
• If the bedroom has dry air or contains a lot of dust, pollen, and allergens, elevating the head also helps reduce the feeling of nasal congestion and difficulty breathing at night.

Combine with other nasal congestion remedies

• Elevating the head only helps improve symptoms and does not replace treating the underlying cause of nasal blockage.
• To more effectively treat nasal congestion, you should combine it with rinsing your nose with physiological saline, maintaining appropriate room humidity, drinking enough water, and avoiding contact with allergens if any.
• If nasal congestion lasts for more than 10 days, accompanied by a high fever, sinus pain, or severe difficulty breathing, visit a medical facility for examination and appropriate treatment.

Method 2: Acupressure to clear nasal passages

Acupressure helps temporarily relieve nasal congestion

• If you have nasal congestion and difficulty breathing, you can try gentle acupressure to help reduce the feeling of nasal blockage before going to sleep.
• Place the tips of your index fingers on either side of your nose, right where the nostril meets the cheek.
• Press gently with moderate pressure, without causing pain, and hold for about 2-3 minutes. Breathe slowly and deeply throughout the acupressure process to enhance relaxation.

Perform correctly for increased effectiveness

• Maintain steady pressure, avoiding rubbing or pressing too hard as it can cause pain or irritate the nasal area.
• Can be performed before sleep or whenever the nose feels blocked and breathing is difficult.
• If needed, repeat several times a day to help relieve sinus pressure and improve the feeling of clear nasal passages.

Notes when applying acupressure for nasal congestion

• Acupressure for nasal congestion is a supportive method that may help reduce temporary symptoms in some people but is not yet scientifically proven enough to replace medical treatments.
• To more effectively treat nasal congestion, it is recommended to combine it with measures such as rinsing the nose with physiological saline, drinking enough water, humidifying the air, and getting adequate rest.
• If nasal congestion and difficulty breathing persist for many days, recur frequently, or are accompanied by fever, severe sinus pain, purulent nasal discharge, or severe shortness of breath, consult a doctor to determine the cause and get appropriate nasal congestion treatment.

Method 3: Gargle with warm salt water

Gargling with salt water helps reduce nasal congestion

• When experiencing nasal congestion and difficulty breathing due to a cold or upper respiratory infection, gargling with warm salt water can help thin mucus in the throat, aid in cleaning the oral cavity, and reduce discomfort.
• This method does not immediately clear the nose but can help improve accompanying symptoms and support the recovery process.

How to gargle correctly

1. Dissolve about 1/2 teaspoon of salt (about 2.5 g) in 240 ml of clean warm water.
2. Take a mouthful of salt water, tilt your head back slightly, and gargle deeply in the back of your throat for about 10-15 seconds.
3. Spit out the salt water, do not swallow.
4. Repeat 2-4 times a day or when feeling a dry, sore throat and uncomfortable nasal congestion.

Reduce sore throat when you have a cold

• If nasal congestion is accompanied by a sore throat, gargling with salt water can help reduce mild inflammation, soothe the throat lining, and make swallowing easier.
• This is a simple home care measure, suitable for people with colds or mild throat irritation.

Notes when treating nasal congestion with salt water

• Children under 6 years old or children who do not know how to gargle and spit correctly should not use this method to avoid the risk of choking.
• Gargling with salt water is only a supportive measure to treat nasal congestion and reduce sore throat, not a replacement for treating the underlying cause of the disease.
• To more effectively treat nasal congestion, combine it with rinsing the nose with physiological saline, drinking enough water, resting, and maintaining adequate humidity in the room. If symptoms persist or worsen, visit a medical facility for examination.

Method 4: Steam inhalation to clear nasal passages

Steam inhalation helps temporarily relieve nasal congestion

• Inhaling warm steam can help moisturize the nasal lining, thin mucus, and support clearer airways when experiencing nasal congestion and difficulty breathing.
• This is a home remedy for nasal congestion used by many people when they have a cold or viral rhinitis. However, the effect is mainly temporary symptom relief and does not treat the underlying cause of the disease.

How to steam safely and correctly

1. Boil a pot of water, then turn off the heat and let the water cool down for about 1-2 minutes.
2. Place the pot of water on a sturdy, flat surface, sit comfortably, and drape a towel over your head to retain the steam.
3. Keep your face about 30 cm away from the water's surface to avoid burns.
4. Close your eyes, inhale through your nose and exhale through your mouth for 5-10 minutes.
5. After steaming, gently blow your nose to remove the thinned mucus.

Essential oils can be combined but with caution

• Some people feel more comfortable adding a few drops of eucalyptus, peppermint, or tea tree essential oil to the steaming water.
• However, essential oils are not suitable for everyone and can cause respiratory irritation or allergies, especially in young children, people with asthma, or those with sensitive conditions.
• Do not apply essential oils directly to the nose or use them in too high concentrations.

Notes when treating nasal congestion with steam inhalation

• Do not lean your face too close to hot water to avoid skin burns and respiratory burns.
• Children should not steam themselves with boiling water due to the high risk of burns.
• If nasal congestion and difficulty breathing persist, are accompanied by a high fever, severe sinus pain, prolonged yellow-green nasal discharge, or severe shortness of breath, consult a doctor for diagnosis and appropriate nasal congestion treatment based on the cause.

Method 5: Take a warm bath to clear nasal passages

Taking a warm bath helps relieve nasal congestion

• When experiencing nasal congestion and difficulty breathing, taking a warm bath can help the steam moisturize the nasal lining, thin mucus, and support clearer nasal passages.
• This method is particularly helpful before going to bed, allowing you to breathe easier and sleep better when you have a cold or rhinitis.

How to take a warm bath correctly

1. Adjust the water to a warm to moderately hot temperature, avoiding water that is too hot to prevent burns or dry skin.
2. Close the bathroom door to retain the steam in the space, creating a humid environment.
3. After a few minutes, when the steam has spread, breathe deeply through your nose and exhale through your mouth while bathing.
4. After bathing, gently blow your nose to remove the thinned mucus.

You can utilize steam without taking a full bath

• If you don't want to take a bath right away, you can sit outside the shower area while hot water is running to inhale the steam for a few minutes.
• This is a simple way to help treat nasal congestion while still taking advantage of the steam in the bathroom.

Notes when treating nasal congestion with warm water

• Do not bathe or steam with excessively hot water as it can cause burns and increase the risk of hypotension in some individuals.
• After bathing, dry yourself and keep your body warm to avoid catching a cold, especially at night.
• If nasal congestion and difficulty breathing do not improve after a few days, or are accompanied by a high fever, severe sinus pain, severe difficulty breathing, or other unusual symptoms, seek medical attention for examination and appropriate nasal congestion treatment.

Method 6: Drink enough water every day

Drinking enough water helps reduce nasal congestion

• When the body is adequately hydrated, the nasal lining will maintain better moisture, and mucus will become thinner and easier to drain. This helps improve nasal congestion and difficulty breathing, especially at night.
• Conversely, dehydration makes nasal mucus thick and sticky in the nasal cavity, making it difficult to breathe and causing prolonged nasal blockage.

Maintain adequate water intake daily

• Women should drink about 2.7 liters of water daily from beverages and water-containing foods.
• Men should consume about 3.7 liters of water daily.
• Water needs may increase if you exercise a lot, the weather is hot, or you have a fever.
• Divide your water intake into several portions throughout the day instead of drinking too much at once for better absorption by the body.

Limit beverages that worsen nasal congestion

• Limit caffeinated beverages in the late afternoon and evening, as caffeine can increase urine output in some people, leading to dehydration if not adequately rehydrated.
• Avoid consuming excessive alcohol before bed, as alcohol can dry out the respiratory mucous membranes, affecting sleep quality and making nasal congestion and difficulty breathing more uncomfortable.
• Instead, prioritize plain water, warm water, or non-alcoholic beverages to help treat nasal congestion more effectively.

Notes for effective nasal congestion relief

• Drinking enough water is a supportive measure and cannot replace treating the underlying cause of nasal obstruction, such as colds, allergic rhinitis, or sinusitis.
• For comprehensive nasal congestion relief, you should combine it with nasal irrigation using physiological saline, maintaining air humidity, getting enough sleep, and avoiding exposure to allergens.
• If nasal congestion lasts more than 10 days, recurs frequently, or is accompanied by high fever, severe sinus pain, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Method 7: Eat chicken soup when you have a stuffy nose

Chicken soup helps reduce discomfort from nasal congestion

• A hot bowl of chicken soup can help soothe nasal congestion and difficulty breathing thanks to the warm steam that humidifies the respiratory tract and helps thin mucus.
• Soup also provides essential water and nutrients, helping the body maintain adequate fluids during a cold or upper respiratory infection.
• Some studies show that chicken soup may have mild anti-inflammatory effects, helping to reduce cold symptoms, although its effectiveness does not replace medication.

Eating soup correctly to help treat nasal congestion

• Soup should be eaten warm, avoiding excessively hot temperatures to prevent injury to the oral and pharyngeal mucous membranes.
• Chicken soup can be consumed for dinner or 1–2 hours before bed to allow the steam and warmth to help clear the nose while resting.
• Add vegetables such as carrots, onions, celery, or ginger to supplement vitamins, minerals, and enhance the flavor of the dish.

Benefits when having a cold or rhinitis

• In addition to helping to treat nasal congestion, chicken soup also helps replenish energy for the body when appetite is poor due to fatigue or a sore throat.
• Warm broth also helps soothe the throat, reduce dryness, and make swallowing easier if nasal congestion accompanies a cold.

Notes for effective nasal congestion relief

• Chicken soup is a supportive home care measure, not a specific nasal congestion treatment.
• To relieve symptoms faster, combine it with adequate hydration, rest, nasal irrigation with saline, and maintaining sufficient room humidity.
• If nasal congestion and difficulty breathing persist for more than 10 days, recur frequently, or are accompanied by high fever, severe sinus pain, or difficulty breathing, you should visit a medical facility for examination and treatment according to the cause.

Method 8: Drink warm herbal tea with honey

Herbal tea and honey help relieve nasal congestion

• A warm cup of herbal tea combined with honey can help soothe the throat, moisturize the respiratory tract, and reduce the feeling of nasal congestion and difficulty breathing when you have a cold.
• The steam from warm tea also helps thin nasal mucus, making it easier to breathe before bed.
• Honey has been shown in many studies to help reduce coughs and improve mild cold symptoms in adults and children over 1 year old.

Choosing the right herbal tea

• You can choose herbal teas such as:
  • Chamomile tea helps relax and promote sleep.
  • Peppermint tea creates a cool sensation, helping to clear the airways.
  • Ginger tea helps warm the body and reduce discomfort during a cold.
  • Lemon tea or echinacea tea are popular choices for supporting health during a cold.
• Check the ingredients to ensure the tea is caffeine-free, especially if drinking it in the evening.

How to use to help treat nasal congestion

1. Brew a cup of herbal tea with hot water according to the manufacturer's instructions.
2. Allow the tea to cool to a comfortable drinking temperature.
3. Add 1–2 teaspoons of honey and stir well.
4. Drink slowly about 30–60 minutes before bed to help treat nasal congestion and relax the body.

Notes when treating nasal congestion with herbal tea

• Do not give honey to children under 12 months old due to the risk of botulism.
• If you have diabetes or need to control your sugar intake, consult your doctor about the appropriate amount of honey.
• Treating nasal congestion with herbal tea is only a supportive measure. If nasal congestion and difficulty breathing persist, are accompanied by high fever, sinus pain, or severe difficulty breathing, seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment of the underlying cause.

Method 9: Eat spicy food to clear your nose

Spicy foods can help temporarily relieve nasal congestion

• If you are experiencing nasal congestion and difficulty breathing, you can try eating a moderate amount of spicy food to help clear your nasal passages.
• Capsaicin, an active compound found in chili peppers, stimulates secretions, thins mucus, and creates a clearer nasal sensation for a short period.
• This is a home remedy for nasal congestion, suitable for some people with colds or nasal congestion due to thick mucus.

Foods containing capsaicin

• You can moderately add dishes such as:
  • Fresh chili.
  • Chili sauce.
  • Salsa.
  • Spicy curry.
  • Dishes with spicy chili seasoning.
• Do not eat excessively spicy food as it can irritate the stomach and digestive tract.

Effectiveness is only temporary

• After eating spicy food, you may notice more nasal discharge. This is a normal reaction as capsaicin stimulates secretions, helping to clear the nasal passages.
• However, the nasal congestion relief effect typically lasts only for a short period and does not address the underlying cause of the congestion.

Notes when treating nasal congestion with spicy food

• Do not eat spicy food if you have stomach pain, stomach ulcers, or digestive disorders, as it can worsen symptoms.
• People with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) should also limit spicy food as it can exacerbate reflux and make nasal congestion and difficulty breathing due to irritation more severe.
• To effectively treat nasal congestion, combine a balanced diet with adequate hydration, nasal irrigation with physiological saline, and sufficient rest. If symptoms persist or recur frequently, seek medical attention for examination.

Method 10: Use saline nasal spray

Saline spray helps reduce nasal congestion

• Saline solution is one of the safest and most recommended methods for treating nasal congestion when you have a cold, allergic rhinitis, or mild sinusitis.
• Saline solution helps moisturize the nasal lining, thin mucus, remove dust and allergens, and reduce the feeling of nasal congestion and difficulty breathing.
• Although it does not treat the underlying cause, regular saline sprays can help you breathe easier, especially before bed.

How to use saline nasal spray correctly

1. Gently blow your nose to remove excess mucus.
2. Keep your head straight or slightly tilted forward.
3. Insert the spray nozzle into each nostril and spray according to the product instructions.
4. Inhale gently to ensure the solution spreads evenly in the nasal cavity.
5. After a few minutes, gently blow your nose if the mucus has thinned and drained out.
6. Can be used multiple times a day as directed by the manufacturer or healthcare professional.

Can also irrigate the nose with a specialized rinse bottle

• In addition to sprays, you can use a nasal rinse bottle (Neti pot or specialized nasal rinse bottle) to clean your nasal passages when nasal congestion persists.
• When rinsing your nose, tilt your head to one side, allowing the solution to flow from one nostril to the other, then gently blow your nose after finishing.
• Only use distilled water, sterile water, or boiled and cooled water mixed with a specialized saline packet. Do not use untreated tap water as it may contain harmful microorganisms.

Notes when treating nasal congestion with saline

• Do not spray or rinse your nose too forcefully as it can cause discomfort or irritate the mucous membranes.
• Clean the nasal rinse bottle and spray nozzle after each use to reduce the risk of infection.
• If nasal congestion and difficulty breathing persist for more than 10 days, recur frequently, are accompanied by high fever, sinus pain, or foul-smelling nasal discharge, seek medical attention for diagnosis and appropriate nasal congestion treatment.

Method 11: Use nasal strips

Nasal strips help you breathe easier while sleeping

• If nasal congestion and difficulty breathing make it hard for you to sleep or cause snoring, nasal strips can be a simple supportive solution.
• Nasal strips work by gently lifting the sides of the nose, helping to open the anterior nasal passages and improve airflow.
• This method is especially suitable for mild edema or narrow nostrils. However, its effectiveness may be limited if the cause is severe sinusitis or deep obstruction in the nasal cavity.

How to use nasal strips correctly

1. Clean and dry the bridge of your nose so the strip adheres better.
2. Peel off the protective liner according to the manufacturer's instructions.
3. Apply the strip across the widest part of the bridge of your nose, just above the nostrils.
4. Press gently to ensure the strip adheres evenly to the skin.
5. Remove after waking up or after the recommended usage time on the packaging.

Benefits of treating nighttime nasal congestion

• Helps relieve nasal congestion and makes breathing easier while sleeping.
• May help reduce snoring in some individuals due to narrow or slightly obstructed nasal passages.
• Drug-free, so there's less risk of systemic side effects and it can be combined with other nasal congestion treatments like saline sprays or air humidifiers.

Notes for treating nasal congestion with nasal strips

• Do not apply to broken, inflamed, or irritated skin.
• If itching, redness, or an allergic reaction to the adhesive occurs, discontinue use.
• Nasal strips only help relieve symptoms and are not a causal treatment for nasal congestion.
• If nasal congestion and difficulty breathing persist, recur frequently, or are accompanied by sinus pain, fever, or severe shortness of breath, you should seek medical attention for proper examination and treatment.

Method 12: Apply menthol-containing rub

Applying rub helps reduce nasal congestion

• When experiencing nasal congestion and difficulty breathing, you can use menthol-containing rub or balm to create a clearer airway sensation before going to bed.
• Ingredients like menthol, camphor, or eucalyptus oil don't directly clear nasal passages, but they create a cool and soothing sensation, helping you feel like you can breathe more easily.
• This is a temporary supportive measure for treating nasal congestion, especially during a cold.

How to use correctly

1. Read the instructions on the product packaging carefully.
2. Apply an adequate amount to the chest and neck as recommended by the manufacturer.
3. Rub gently for the product to absorb into the skin.
4. It should be used before bedtime to help reduce discomfort and promote sleep.

Safe use for treating nasal congestion

• For external use only; do not apply inside the nose, eyes, mouth, or to broken skin.
• Wash hands thoroughly after application to avoid accidental contact with eyes or mucous membranes.
• Do not heat the product or bandage the applied area, as this can increase the risk of skin irritation.

Notes when using menthol-containing rub

• Some people with sensitive skin may experience redness, burning, or allergic reactions. Discontinue use if signs of irritation appear.
• Not all products are suitable for young children. Always check the recommended age on the label and consult a doctor when using for children.
• Rub only helps relieve the sensation of nasal congestion and difficulty breathing; it does not treat the cause of nasal blockage. For effective nasal congestion treatment, it should be combined with measures such as nasal rinsing with saline solution, adequate hydration, and rest. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical attention.

Method 13: Keep bedding clean to reduce nasal congestion

Protect your bed to limit allergies

• If nasal congestion and difficulty breathing only appear or worsen when you lie down to sleep, the cause may be related to allergies to dust mites in your blankets, sheets, pillows, or mattress.
• Using allergen-proof covers for pillows and mattresses helps reduce exposure to allergens, thereby aiding in treating nasal congestion and improving sleep quality.
• This measure is particularly helpful for individuals with allergic rhinitis or year-round allergies.

Keep bedding clean

• Change and wash bed sheets, pillowcases, and blankets at least once a week.
• Wash with hot water (approximately 55–60°C) if the fabric allows to help kill dust mites more effectively.
• After washing, dry completely before use to prevent mold growth.
• Additionally, clean the bedroom regularly and vacuum mattresses, carpets, and curtains to reduce accumulated dust.

Monitor for allergy signs

• Pay attention if nasal congestion, sneezing, or runny nose frequently occur as soon as you get into bed or in the morning after waking up.
• These could be signs that you are exposed to allergens in the bedroom, rather than just having a common cold.
• Proper identification of the cause will help choose a more suitable and effective nasal congestion treatment.

When to see a doctor?

• If you suspect your nasal congestion and difficulty breathing are allergy-related, visit a healthcare facility or allergy specialist for examination and necessary tests.
• After identifying the allergen, the doctor can advise on preventive measures, prescribe medication, or develop a long-term allergy management plan.
• If symptoms persist for several weeks, recur frequently, or significantly affect sleep and daily life, you should not self-treat for an extended period at home.

Method 14: Diffuse essential oils correctly

Essential oils can help you breathe easier

• Some essential oils like peppermint, eucalyptus, lavender, tea tree, or sage create a pleasant aroma, aiding relaxation and providing a clearer airway sensation when experiencing nasal congestion and difficulty breathing.
• However, current scientific evidence is not sufficient to confirm that essential oils can treat nasal congestion or cure sinusitis or colds. Their primary effect is to support relaxation and improve comfort for some individuals.

How to use essential oils safely

1. Add the amount of essential oil as directed by the manufacturer to the diffuser.
2. Place the diffuser in a well-ventilated area in the bedroom, avoiding placing it too close to the head of the bed.
3. Diffuse for about 30–60 minutes before bedtime or as recommended by the device.
4. Keep the room well-ventilated and do not diffuse continuously for too long.

Choosing suitable essential oils

• You can consider popular essential oils such as:
  • Peppermint essential oil.
  • Eucalyptus essential oil.
  • Lavender essential oil.
  • Tea tree essential oil.
  • Clary sage essential oil.
• Choose products from reputable sources and use the correct dosage to minimize the risk of irritation.

Notes when treating nasal congestion with essential oils

• Do not apply undiluted essential oils directly into the nose or on mucous membranes as this can cause irritation or chemical burns.
• Individuals with asthma, allergic rhinitis, pregnant women, young children, or those with a history of essential oil allergies should consult a doctor before use.
• If, during diffusion, increased coughing, shortness of breath, eye irritation, or nasal irritation occurs, stop use immediately.
• Essential oils are only a supportive measure for treating nasal congestion and do not replace proven treatment methods such as nasal rinsing with saline solution, adequate hydration, and treating the underlying cause. If nasal congestion and difficulty breathing persist or recur frequently, you should seek medical attention for diagnosis and appropriate nasal congestion treatment.

Method 15: Use a humidifier

Humidifier helps reduce nasal congestion during sleep

• If nasal congestion and difficulty breathing are caused by dry air, using a humidifier can help add moisture to the bedroom, keeping nasal membranes from drying out and helping to thin mucus.
• Appropriate humidity helps you breathe easier, especially at night when nasal congestion symptoms often become more pronounced.
• Even if nasal congestion is due to a cold or allergic rhinitis, maintaining proper humidity can still help alleviate discomfort.

How to use a humidifier effectively

1. Place the humidifier in the bedroom according to the manufacturer's instructions.
2. Maintain room humidity at approximately 40–50%. Do not exceed 60% humidity, as this can create conditions for mold and dust mites to grow.
3. Place the humidifier at a suitable distance from the bed so that moisture is evenly distributed in the room.
4. Use clean water as recommended by the manufacturer to reduce mineral deposits and bacteria.

If you don't have a humidifier

• You can place a bowl of clean water in the room for natural evaporation, which helps slightly increase air humidity.
• While not as effective as a humidifier, this is a temporary solution when a specialized device for treating nasal congestion is not available.

Clean the machine regularly to protect your health

• Clean the water tank and machine components according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Replace or clean the filter at the recommended intervals to prevent bacteria, mold, and dirt buildup.
• A humidifier that is not cleaned regularly can spread microorganisms into the air, making respiratory symptoms more severe.

Notes when treating nasal congestion with a humidifier

• A humidifier is only a supportive measure for treating nasal congestion, not a cure for the underlying cause.
• If nasal congestion and difficulty breathing persist, recur frequently, or are accompanied by fever, sinus pain, shortness of breath, or other unusual symptoms, seek medical attention for proper examination and treatment.

Method 16: Use an air purifier

Air purifiers help reduce agents causing nasal congestion

• If nasal congestion and difficulty breathing are due to allergies, an air purifier can help reduce fine dust, pollen, pet dander, and some airborne allergens in the room.
• When the air is cleaner, nasal membranes are less irritated, thereby helping to treat nasal congestion and allowing you to sleep better, especially at night.
• This method is particularly suitable for people with allergic rhinitis or those who frequently sneeze and have a runny nose when in the bedroom.

Prioritize machines with HEPA filters

• When choosing an air purifier, prioritize devices that use HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters.
• HEPA filters can retain most fine dust particles, pollen, and many very small allergens, helping to improve indoor air quality.
• For best results, choose a machine with a power output suitable for your bedroom size.

Using an air purifier correctly

1. Place the device in a well-ventilated area, ensuring the air inlets and outlets are not obstructed.
2. Turn on the device 30–60 minutes before going to bed, or operate it continuously as directed by the manufacturer.
3. Close the room door when in use to increase air purification effectiveness.
4. Clean or replace filters regularly to maintain air cleaning performance.

Notes on treating stuffy nose with an air purifier

• Air purifiers help reduce allergens but do not directly treat the underlying causes of nasal congestion due to colds, sinusitis, or infections.
• For more effective nasal congestion treatment, combine it with regular bedroom cleaning, washing bedding, controlling room humidity, and limiting exposure to allergens.
• If persistent nasal congestion and difficulty breathing occur or frequently recur despite improving living conditions, consult a medical facility for diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan.

Method 17: Use medication according to the cause

Choose the right medication for the cause of nasal congestion

• When nasal congestion and difficulty breathing affect sleep, some over-the-counter medications can help relieve symptoms. However, effectiveness will depend on the cause of the congestion.
• If you use the right type of medication, you can treat nasal congestion more effectively and reduce discomfort at night.

Antihistamines for allergies

• If nasal congestion is due to allergic rhinitis, accompanied by sneezing, itchy nose, or runny nose, antihistamines can help alleviate these symptoms.
• Some older generation antihistamines can cause drowsiness, while newer generation drugs generally have less impact on alertness.
• Choose medication according to the advice of your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you need to drive or perform tasks requiring concentration.

Decongestants for colds

• If nasal congestion and difficulty breathing are due to a cold or upper respiratory tract infection, decongestants can help reduce swelling of the nasal lining and improve airflow.
• Oral or spray decongestants should only be used for a short period as directed. In particular, vasoconstrictor nasal sprays should not be used for more than 3 consecutive days due to the risk of rebound congestion (medication dependence).

Safe medication use

1. Read the instructions for use carefully before taking.
2. Adhere strictly to the dosage and interval between doses or sprays.
3. Do not arbitrarily combine multiple medications with the same active ingredients or similar effects without medical guidance.
4. Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have conditions such as hypertension, heart disease, hyperthyroidism, or glaucoma before using decongestants.

Notes on treating nasal congestion with medication

• Medication only helps control symptoms and should be chosen based on the underlying cause of the illness.
• If nasal congestion and difficulty breathing persist for more than 10 days, recur frequently, are accompanied by high fever, severe sinus pain, foul-smelling nasal discharge, or increased difficulty breathing, consult a medical facility for diagnosis and appropriate nasal congestion treatment.

Method 18: When to see a doctor?

Don't delay if nasal congestion persists

• Most cases of nasal congestion and difficulty breathing due to colds or allergies will improve after a few days with home care.
• However, if symptoms persist or worsen, you should visit a medical facility for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate nasal congestion treatment.
• Early examination helps detect conditions such as sinusitis, allergic rhinitis, nasal polyps, or other respiratory issues.

Signs requiring early medical attention

Contact a doctor if you experience one or more of the following signs:

• Nasal congestion and difficulty breathing persisting for more than 10 days without improvement.
• Yellow or green nasal discharge accompanied by fever or sinus pain, which may suggest a sinus infection.
• Frequent or heavy nosebleeds.
• Persistent high fever or worsening symptoms.
• Severe shortness of breath, severe headache, or swelling around the eyes.

What treatment might the doctor prescribe?

• After examination, the doctor will assess the cause of nasal congestion and choose the appropriate treatment method.
• Depending on the case, you may be prescribed:
  • Medication for allergic rhinitis.
  • Corticosteroid nasal sprays.
  • Decongestants or other symptomatic treatments.
  • Antibiotics if a bacterial infection is identified. Antibiotics are not effective against viral colds, so they should not be used without medical guidance.

Prepare information before your appointment

• Note the onset of symptoms, the severity of nasal congestion and difficulty breathing, the color of nasal discharge, and accompanying symptoms such as fever, headache, sinus pain, or cough.
• If you notice symptoms appearing after exposure to pollen, house dust, pet dander, or other agents, inform your doctor to aid in diagnosis.
• Providing complete information will help the doctor quickly determine the cause and develop an appropriate, safe, and effective nasal congestion treatment plan.

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Content edited by: Rene Lee Nguyen.

Information consulted and verified by expert: Harper Martinez.