Stuffy nose

Everyone has a stuffy nose on average four times a year. But why does this happen and what can you do about it?

You get a stuffy nose because the mucous membranes in your nose swell. One moment your nose can be completely closed and a moment later your nose can run like a waterfall again.

This is usually caused by a virus and then you have a cold. But sometimes an allergy can also be the cause. Rarely is inflammation of the sinuses the cause. In the latter case, your nose will be clogged rather than running. What can you do yourself against a stuffy nose?

If it is a cold: wait and see, it will go away on its own. You can only use nasal spray or drops from the pharmacist for a few days. Warm drinks or broth can reduce the feeling of constipation. Steaming with eucalyptus, for example, can also reduce complaints.

If the stuffy nose is also accompanied by fever, headache, poor vision or a sore throat that keeps getting worse, you should see a doctor. Even if you have a cough for more than ten days or if you cough up colored mucus, it is better to see your doctor.

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 0000-00-00 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2025