Use saline nasal spray or saline rinse (sterile/distilled or previously boiled water)
Take a warm shower or inhale steam from a bowl of hot water (carefully) or use a humidifier
Apply warm compresses to the face and around the nose
Stay hydrated and use warm fluids
Perform gentle nasal irrigation and blow your nose gently
Use a decongestant nasal spray for up to 3 days (e.g., oxymetazoline) if needed
Consider an oral decongestant if appropriate for you (avoid if you have high blood pressure, heart rhythm issues, or certain conditions)
Use an antihistamine if symptoms suggest allergies (e.g., cetirizine or loratadine)
Use an intranasal corticosteroid for allergic or chronic congestion (e.g., fluticasone or mometasone)
Avoid known triggers (dust, smoke, strong odors) and consider allergy control measures
Sleep with your head elevated
Avoid overusing decongestant nasal sprays beyond 3 days
Check for and treat dental issues if you have tooth-related pain or one-sided sinus symptoms
Seek urgent care if you have severe headache, swelling around the eyes, vision changes, confusion, stiff neck, or high fever
Contact a clinician if symptoms last more than 10 days, worsen after initial improvement, or last longer than 3–4 weeks
Consider evaluation for sinus infection, allergies, nasal polyps, or deviated septum if recurrent or persistent