A clogged nose (nasal congestion) occurs when the tissues lining your nasal passages become swollen with excess fluid. It can be caused by a cold, the flu, allergies, or sinus infections. While it is rarely serious, it is incredibly frustrating and can disrupt sleep and daily life.

We’ve all been there. You lie down to sleep, and suddenly it feels like someone poured quick-dry cement into your nostrils. You can’t taste your dinner, you sound like a cartoon character, and breathing feels like a luxury you no longer have access to.

A clogged nose isn’t actually full of solid mucus (sorry for the visual). The tissues inside your nasal passages are swollen and inflamed. Think of it like a traffic jam: the road hasn’t disappeared, but the lanes have narrowed.

Now go breathe. You’ve earned it.

Identify the more congested nostril. Use your thumb to hook underneath the cheekbone on that side and gently pull upward and outward while taking deep breaths.