Stuffy Nose
A stuffy nose is a blocked or congested feeling in the nose from swollen nasal tissue and mucus. A stuffy nose is most often caused by a cold, allergies, or a sinus infection. Most cases clear within a week or two.
What Is It
When the lining of the nose is irritated, it swells and makes more mucus. Colds, flu, allergies, dry air, and sinus infections are the most common triggers. In babies, a stuffy nose can make feeding and sleeping hard.
Symptoms
- Blocked or congested nose
- Runny nose or thick mucus
- Trouble breathing through the nose
- Sneezing
- Snoring or poor sleep
- Reduced sense of smell
Not sure what is causing it? A stuffy nose with sore throat and cough is often an upper respiratory infection. Congestion with face pain lasting more than 10 days may be a sinus infection.
Treatment
At your visit: A provider examines your nose, ears, and throat to find the cause. Treatment may include saline rinses, nasal sprays, or allergy medicine. Swabs for flu, COVID, or strep may help when other symptoms are present.
At home:
- Use saline spray or a sinus rinse
- Breathe steam from a warm shower
- Use a humidifier at night
- Limit decongestant nasal sprays to 3 days
Most stuffy noses from a cold clear within 7 to 10 days.
When to Get Care for a Stuffy Nose
Most stuffy noses can be cared for at home. If you are not sure what it is, or it is not getting better, Vitality Urgent Care is here to answer your questions and advise the right treatment. No appointment is needed.
FAQ
How do you clear a stuffy nose fast?
To clear a stuffy nose fast, use saline spray, breathe steam from a shower, and sleep with your head raised. A decongestant spray can help for up to 3 days.
Why is my nose stuffy at night?
A stuffy nose is often worse at night because lying flat lets mucus collect and blood flow to the nasal tissue. Raising your head can help.
How long does a stuffy nose last?
A stuffy nose from a cold usually lasts 7 to 10 days. Congestion from allergies can last as long as the trigger is around.
How do I help a baby with a stuffy nose?
Help a baby with a stuffy nose by using saline drops and gentle bulb suction, running a cool mist humidifier, and offering frequent feedings.
Can urgent care treat a stuffy nose?
Yes, urgent care can treat a stuffy nose. At Vitality Urgent Care, a provider can examine your nose and sinuses and test for flu or COVID when needed. No appointment or referral is needed.
Can a stuffy nose turn into a sinus infection?
Yes, a stuffy nose can lead to a sinus infection when mucus is trapped. Symptoms lasting more than 10 days or getting worse should be checked.
Last reviewed October 2026
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