A stuffy nose, also known as nasal congestion, can last anywhere from a few days to more than a week. It usually is caused by allergies, a cold, or the flu, and its severity and duration depends on the underlying cause.
If your stuffy nose is caused by allergies, it should resolve itself after a few days of taking antihistamines to reduce your symptoms. If your stuffy nose is caused by a cold or the flu, it can last for up to two weeks or longer.
When your stuffy nose is caused by a cold or the flu, it is often accompanied by other symptoms such as a sore throat, coughing, and a fever. During this time, it is important to get plenty of rest and fluids to help your body fight off the infection. Additionally, using a humidifier in your home can help to reduce the severity of your stuffy nose by adding moisture to the air and loosening mucus.
In some cases, a stuffy nose can be caused by a sinus infection, which can persist for up to several weeks if it is not treated with antibiotics. If you are experiencing a stuffy nose that lasts longer than a week and is accompanied by other symptoms such as facial pain, yellow or green nasal discharge, and a fever, it is important to see a doctor to rule out a sinus infection.
Overall, the duration of a stuffy nose depends on the underlying cause. If it is caused by allergies, it is typically resolved within a few days, while a cold or the flu can cause it to persist for up to two weeks. Sinus infections can last for several weeks and may require medical treatment.