The main reasons why a nose gets stuffy at night include allergies (such as dust mites, pet dander, pollen), rhinitis (allergic or non-allergic inflammation of nasal mucosa), common cold or flu infections, structural abnormalities like a deviated septum, dry air in the bedroom, lifestyle factors like alcohol and smoking, and the effect of lying down which causes mucus to build up and blood vessels to swell more in the nasal passages due to gravity. These factors cause inflammation, swelling, or fluid accumulation in the nasal passages that worsen congestion when lying flat and disrupt nasal airflow, leading to a stuffy nose at night.
Key Causes of Nighttime Nasal Congestion
- Allergies to common bedroom allergens like dust mites and pet dander cause irritation and swelling of nasal tissues.
- Non-allergic rhinitis triggered by environmental irritants or temperature changes causes inflammation.
- Viral infections such as colds and flu increase nasal membrane swelling and mucus.
- Anatomical issues like a deviated septum restrict airflow, especially when lying down.
- Dry indoor air dries out nasal passages, worsening congestion.
- Lifestyle factors including alcohol consumption and smoking relax nasal tissues or increase irritation.
- Lying down makes mucus drainage harder and increases blood flow and swelling in nasal tissues due to gravity.
Why it worsens at night
Lying flat causes mucus to accumulate and blood vessels in the nasal passages to swell more, increasing blockage. The relaxed position also makes structural issues more pronounced. Dry air and allergens in the bedroom can further irritate nasal passages during sleep.
Understanding these factors can help identify ways to reduce nighttime nasal congestion, such as improving bedroom air quality, managing allergies, using humidifiers, and adjusting sleep position.
