Why is my nose always stuffy when I wake up every day, and what should I do about it?

Waking up with nasal congestion every day may be caused by dry sleeping environments, getting cold at night, allergic rhinitis, chronic rhinitis, or sinusitis. Symptoms can be improved through humidification, staying warm, and medical treatment. If nasal congestion worsens progressively or is accompanied by headache and purulent nasal discharge, prompt medical attention is necessary.

1. Dry sleeping environment: Low indoor humidity causes the nasal mucosa to lose moisture, leading to dried secretions that block the nasal passages, resulting in noticeable nasal congestion upon waking. It is recommended to use a humidifier before bedtime, drink warm water before sleep, and apply saline nasal spray to moisten the nasal cavity.

2. Getting cold at night: Inadequate warmth during sleep exposes the nasal mucosa to cold air, causing blood vessels to constrict and then become congested and swollen, leading to nasal congestion, possibly accompanied by mild runny nose. It is advised to cover up properly at night, avoid direct exposure to air conditioning or fans, and soak feet in warm water before bed to dispel cold.

3. Allergic rhinitis: Exposure to allergens such as dust mites or mold in bedding at night triggers an allergic reaction in the nasal mucosa, causing swelling and congestion, leading to nasal blockage upon waking, often accompanied by nasal itching and sneezing. Patients may use medications such as mometasone furoate nasal spray, loratadine tablets, or montelukast sodium tablets under medical guidance to relieve symptoms.

4. Chronic rhinitis: Long-term inflammation of the nasal mucosa leads to vascular dilation and congestion, with secretions accumulating at night, worsening nasal congestion upon waking, often accompanied by thick nasal discharge. It is recommended to use medications such as budesonide nasal spray, oxymetazoline hydrochloride spray, or Biyuan Tongqiao Granules under a doctor’s supervision to alleviate discomfort.

5. Sinusitis: Inflammation in the sinuses increases secretions, which may flow backward and block the nasal passages when lying down at night, resulting in significant nasal congestion upon waking, along with headache and purulent nasal discharge. Patients may follow medical advice to use amoxicillin-clavulanate potassium dispersible tablets, cefuroxime axetil capsules, or isotonic seawater nasal sprays to improve symptoms.

Maintain indoor cleanliness, regularly change bedding, avoid allergens, eat a light diet avoiding spicy and irritating foods, and engage in moderate exercise to strengthen physical health and support recovery of nasal airflow function.