Why is nasal congestion severe at night after swimming, and what should I do about it?
Nov 28, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
In general, severe nasal congestion at night after swimming may be caused by factors such as water entering the nasal cavity and causing irritation, catching a cold due to exposure to cold, allergic rhinitis, acute sinusitis, or chronic hypertrophic rhinitis. Depending on the specific situation, symptoms can be improved through general care, medication, or surgical treatment. Perform proper warm-up exercises before swimming and choose pools that meet hygiene standards. After swimming, dry the body promptly and put on warm clothing.
Generally, severe nasal congestion at night after swimming may be caused by factors such as water entering the nasal cavity, catching a cold due to exposure to cold, allergic rhinitis, acute sinusitis, or chronic hypertrophic rhinitis. Depending on the specific situation, symptoms can be improved through general care, medication, surgical treatment, etc. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Nasal Irritation from Water Entry
When water enters the nasal cavity during swimming, it can irritate the nasal mucosa, causing blood vessel dilation and congestion. Symptoms are more noticeable when lying down at night. Rinse the nasal cavity promptly with normal saline to remove residual water, and sleep with the head slightly elevated.
2. Cold-Induced Common Cold
Low water temperature in the pool or failure to keep warm after exiting the water may reduce body resistance and lead to a cold. Inflammation and swelling of the nasal mucosa result in nasal congestion. Drink plenty of warm water, apply a warm towel over the nose, ensure adequate rest, and avoid further exposure to cold.
3. Allergic Rhinitis
Disinfectants or microorganisms in pool water may act as allergens, triggering an allergic reaction in the nasal mucosa, leading to nasal congestion and sneezing. Under medical guidance, medications such as cetirizine hydrochloride tablets, loratadine syrup, or montelukast sodium chewable tablets may be taken, and exposure to allergenic environments should be avoided.
4. Acute Sinusitis
Pathogens may enter the sinuses through water during swimming, causing acute inflammation. Congestion and swelling of the sinus mucosa lead to nasal blockage, often accompanied by purulent nasal discharge. Follow medical advice to take medications such as cefaclor sustained-release tablets, eucalyptus citronellal enteric soft capsules, and budesonide nasal spray to maintain nasal patency.
5. Chronic Hypertrophic Rhinitis
Long-term inflammation causes thickening and hyperplasia of the nasal mucosa; symptoms worsen after swimming, resulting in persistent nasal congestion. Use mometasone furoate nasal spray, Tongqiao Biyan granules, or Xinyi Biyan pills as directed by a physician. In severe cases, partial turbinectomy may be required.
Warm up properly before swimming and choose clean, hygienic pools. Dry the body promptly and wear warm clothing after swimming. Strengthen physical exercise regularly to boost immunity, and avoid forceful nose-blowing when experiencing nasal congestion. If symptoms persist for more than one week without improvement, seek medical evaluation to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
