Why does your nose block at Night?

Do you breathe normally during the day but find it harder to breathe through your nose when you lie down at night?

This is a common problem. A blocked nose can disturb sleep, force you to breathe through your mouth and leave you with a dry mouth or sore throat in the morning. Many people think a blocked nose is always caused by a cold or flu. However doctors say there can be several other reasons.

Why does it happen at night?

Dr. Subrata Das of Aster Whitefield Hospital says that natural changes in the body during sleep can make nasal blockage feel worse.

One common reason is sleeping position. During the day when you sit or stand gravity helps mucus drain from the nose.  But when you lie down mucus can collect inside the nose, making breathing more difficult.

Changes in hormones at night may also increase swelling inside the nose. People who already have allergies or nasal inflammation may notice the problem more strongly at bedtime.

The nervous system can also affect the blood vessels and tissues inside the nose. Changes in nerve activity during the night may increase mucus and make the nose feel stuffy.

Allergies may be the cause

If your nose becomes blocked mainly after you get into bed allergies could be responsible.

Dust

dust mites in mattresses and pillows, carpets curtains and damp areas can trigger allergies.  Mold caused by moisture on walls can also lead to a blocked nose, sneezing and itching. Keeping the bedroom clean and dry may help reduce these problems.

Acid reflux can also affect your nose

Acid reflux is another possible cause. Eating a heavy meal and lying down soon afterward can allow stomach acid to move upward toward the throat.

This may cause throat irritation and sometimes make nasal symptoms feel worse.

If you also experience heartburn a sour taste in your mouth frequent throat clearing or a burning throat in the morning it is better to speak with a doctor.

How can you get relief?

The most important step is to find out what is causing the blockage. If allergies are responsible a doctor may recommend a nasal spray or other treatment.

You can also try.

•Keeping your bedroom free of dust

•Washing bed sheets and pillow covers regularly

•Cleaning mattresses and carpets

•Removing mold and moisture

•Avoiding meals just before bedtime

•Using a safe saline nasal rinse if recommended

•Warm salt water gargles may help if you have a sore or irritated throat.

When should you see a doctor?

Occasional nasal blockage is usually not a major concern. But if your nose is blocked every night your sleep is regularly disturbed or you have symptoms such as frequent sneezing facial pain headaches fever breathing problems or ongoing nasal discharge you should see a doctor.