Saline nasal spray
Saline nasal rinse (neti pot or squeeze bottle) with distilled, sterile, or previously boiled water
Steam inhalation or a hot shower
Warm compress over the nose and cheeks
Stay hydrated (warm fluids can help)
Use a humidifier, especially at night
Sleep with head elevated
Gentle nose blowing; avoid aggressive blowing
Light exercise to improve circulation
Avoid smoke, dust, strong odors, and other irritants
If allergies are suspected: use an over-the-counter antihistamine (e.g., cetirizine or loratadine)
If allergies are suspected: use an over-the-counter intranasal steroid spray (e.g., fluticasone or triamcinolone) as directed
Short-term use of an OTC decongestant nasal spray (e.g., oxymetazoline) for no more than 3 days
Short-term use of an oral decongestant (e.g., pseudoephedrine) if appropriate for you
Check medication labels for congestion relief products that may contain overlapping ingredients
If you have chronic or recurrent congestion, consider medical evaluation for sinusitis, allergies, or structural issues
Seek urgent care if you have severe facial pain, high fever, swelling around the eyes, vision changes, stiff neck, or worsening symptoms
Seek medical care if symptoms last longer than 10 days, are recurrent, or improve then worsen again
If you’re pregnant, have uncontrolled hypertension, heart rhythm problems, glaucoma, prostate/urinary retention issues, or are giving treatment to a child, ask a clinician/pharmacist before using decongestants or nasal sprays