How to Sleep with a Blocked Nose

How to Sleep with a Blocked Nose

A blocked nose can make falling asleep feel like an impossible task. The discomfort and difficulty in breathing can leave you tossing and turning all night. However, with the right strategies, you can get a better night's sleep even with a stuffy nose. In this guide, we'll answer common questions and offer practical tips for sleeping soundly when you can't breathe through your nose.

 

How to Sleep When You Can't Breathe?

If your nasal congestion is making it hard to breathe, try the following:

  1. Use a Humidifier: Dry air can worsen nasal congestion. A humidifier adds moisture to the air, helping to soothe irritated nasal passages and improve airflow.
  2. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps thin mucus, making it easier to clear from your nasal passages. Herbal teas like chamomile can also be comforting.
  3. Apply a Nasal Decongestant: Saline sprays or decongestant drops can provide temporary relief by reducing inflammation in your nasal tissues. Be cautious not to overuse medicated sprays, as they can cause rebound congestion.
  4. Take a Natural Sleep Aid: A product like Dream, which contains calming ingredients such as magnesium, chamomile, and hops, can help you relax and drift off to sleep more easily.
  5. Steam Inhalation: Inhale steam from a bowl of hot water or take a warm shower before bed. The steam can loosen mucus and ease congestion.

 

Which Way Should I Sleep If I Have a Stuffy Nose?

Your sleeping position plays a significant role in managing a blocked nose. Here are some tips:

  1. Elevate Your Head: Sleeping with your head slightly elevated helps reduce nasal swelling and improves drainage. Use an extra pillow or a wedge to lift your upper body.
  2. Sleep on Your Side: If one nostril is more blocked than the other, try lying on the opposite side. This can encourage mucus to drain from the more congested nostril.
  3. Avoid Sleeping on Your Back: Lying flat on your back can cause mucus to accumulate in your nasal passages, worsening the blockage.

 

How to Breathe Better at Night with a Stuffy Nose?

Breathing comfortably at night can feel challenging when your nose is congested, but these techniques can help:

  1. Nasal Strips: Adhesive strips placed across the bridge of your nose can open your nasal passages, making it easier to breathe.
  2. Essential Oils: Peppermint or eucalyptus oil can help clear your nasal passages. Add a few drops to your humidifier or a bowl of steaming water for a soothing effect.
  3. Use a Natural Remedy: Ingredients like chamomile and tart cherries, found in Dream, not only support better sleep but can also ease tension, helping you feel more relaxed despite nasal congestion.
  4. Keep Allergens at Bay: Clean your bedroom regularly and use hypoallergenic bedding to minimise dust and allergens that can worsen congestion.
  5. Practice Deep Breathing: Before bed, try breathing exercises. Inhale deeply through your nose (or mouth if necessary), hold for a few seconds, and exhale slowly. This helps calm your nervous system and promotes relaxation.

 

Final Thoughts

Sleeping with a blocked nose is undoubtedly uncomfortable, but with these tips, you can alleviate congestion and get the rest you need. Simple remedies like elevating your head, using a humidifier, or taking a natural sleep aid like Dream can make a significant difference. Combine these methods to create a sleep-friendly environment, even when you're under the weather.