Your nose can get "stuffed up" when the membranes lining it become swollen, usually because of a cold, allergies, a sinus infection, or the flu. To relieve a runny or stuffy nose, try the following:

• Decongestants: These may help relieve congestion by shrinking the blood vessels in the lining of the nose. They only help with stuffiness, not a runny nose or other symptoms. Decongestant nasal sprays and drops should not be used for more than three days because after that they can make congestion worse.
• Antihistamines: These may reduce the amount of mucus. Be careful, though, because some antihistamines cause drowsiness.
• Gentle saline nasal sprays.
• A vaporizer or humidifier can increase the humidity in the air.
• Drink extra fluids. Hot tea, broth, and chicken soup may be especially helpful.
• Stay upright, or at least keep your head elevated. Lying down often makes congestion worse.
• Nasal adhesive strips. These help widen the nostrils, making breathing easier. You can buy them at most pharmacies and supermarkets.

Call your health care provider if your stuffy nose is accompanied by swelling of the forehead, eyes, sides of the nose, or cheeks, blurred vision, increased throat pain, white or yellow spots in the throat, or a cough that lasts longer than ten days or is accompanied by yellow-green or gray sputum, or if the stuffy nose lasts longer than two weeks and significantly interferes with your life!