Cold, flu & breathing

Nasal congestion: virtual care options

Nasal congestion is a stuffy or blocked nose caused by swollen tissue inside the nose. Colds, allergies, and sinus infections are the most common causes.

See virtual care for Nasal congestion

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Common symptoms

What people often notice. Only a provider can tell you what’s causing yours.

Stuffy or blocked nose
Trouble breathing through the nose, especially at night
Runny nose or post-nasal drip
Pressure around the nose and eyes
Reduced sense of smell or taste

What a virtual visit may involve

Care is decided by the provider, based on your situation.

A video or online visit where a licensed provider asks how long you have been congested and what makes it better or worse
A provider helps sort out whether a cold, allergies, or a sinus infection is the likely cause
Prescriptions, if appropriate, can be sent to a pharmacy near you
Tips for clearing congestion safely at home

When in-person care may be better

Urgent care, your doctor, or a clinic can examine and test you.

Congestion is only on one side and does not go away
You have frequent nosebleeds or something may be stuck in the nose
An infant is congested and having trouble feeding
Congestion has lasted for weeks despite treatment

When to go to the ER

Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room if you have:

Trouble breathing
Swelling or redness around the eye
A nosebleed that will not stop after 20 minutes of pressure
Severe headache with a stiff neck or high fever

Ready to explore a virtual visit for Nasal congestion?

Check availability, pricing, and care details directly with the provider. You’ll leave ER.com when you continue.

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Common questions

Nasal congestion, answered.

General information, not medical advice. A provider can answer questions about your situation.

How do I know if my stuffy nose is allergies or a cold?

Allergies often cause itchy eyes and sneezing and can last as long as you are exposed to the trigger. A cold usually comes with a sore throat or body aches and clears in about a week.

How long should nasal congestion last?

Congestion from a cold usually improves within a week to ten days. If it lasts longer, gets worse, or comes with face pain and fever, talk to a provider.

Can a doctor help with a stuffy nose online?

Yes, a provider can review your symptoms during a virtual visit and suggest ways to ease congestion. If appropriate, they may prescribe treatment or recommend an in-person exam.

This is not for emergencies.

For life-threatening symptoms, severe chest pain, trouble breathing, or immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.