Nasal congestion is a common condition that affects millions of people around the world with stuffy noses. Congestion occurs when the tissues lining the nasal passages become swollen due to inflammation. This leads to a blockage in the nasal airway that makes it difficult to breathe. Many people who experience nasal congestion may find it worsening at night, causing disrupted sleep. This blog will explore a few reasons why nasal congestion gets worse at night and how to find much needed relief.
For same-day nasal congestion treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Burlington. Our medical team can diagnose your conditions and help you manage your symptoms for a better night’s sleep. Simply walk into the clinic or check-in online today.
Symptoms of Nasal Congestion
The symptoms of nasal congestion can vary in severity and duration. The most common symptom is a stuffy nose which leads to difficulty breathing. Nasal congestion can significantlY impact your quality of sleep, so it’s important to seek medical care when necessary.
Common nasal congestion symptoms include:
- Stuffy nose
- Ear pain
- Fever
- Headache
- Facial pain
- Sore throat
What Causes Nasal Congestion at Night?
One of the main reasons why nasal congestion gets worse at night is because of gravity. When lying down, the blood vessels in your nasal passages dilate which leads to increased blood flow to the area. This causes the tissues to swell and become congested. When you are standing upright during the day, mucus can naturally drain. However, at night, mucus can build up and make it difficult to breathe. Another factor that can contribute to nasal congestion at night is dry air. At night, your room can become dry which can irritate the nasal passages and cause them to become inflamed.
Furthermore, colds and infections can also cause nasal congestion, and symptoms tend to be worse at night. Symptoms worsen at night because our natural anti-inflammatory processes slow down during the nighttime. This makes it harder to fight off infections and inflammation.
Tips For Nasal Congestion Relief
There are many ways to relieve nasal congestion. Here are a few tips to try before seek medical attention:
- Using a saline nasal spray
- Inhaling steam to loosen mucus
- Sleeping in an elevated position using pillows
- Decongestants / medications
- Avoiding allergen triggers
If you’ve tried these methods and are still experiencing persistent nasal congestion, it’s important to get professional care. Visit AFC Urgent Care Burlington for fast treatment options so you can get a better night’s sleep. The clinic is open seven days a week and operates on a walk-in basis. For more information, please contact the office directly at (781) 270-4700.
