Nasal congestion, sometimes known as a blocked or stuffy nose, can affect people of all ages. Usually caused by colds, sinus infections, and allergies, it manifests when the nasal tissues swell due to inflammatory blood vessels in the sinuses. Trapped mucus in these expanded channels exacerbates this uncomfortable feeling.

When medical professionals correctly identify the underlying cause of nasal congestion, they can more effectively recommend appropriate treatment options, such as nasal decongestants. By constricting the dilated blood vessels in the affected mucous membranes, these drugs lessen inflammation and pain.

Its wider social significance is demonstrated by NHS Digital (UK) statistics that rank upper respiratory tract problems, such as rhinitis (which includes a runny or stuffy nose), as one of the top 10 reasons for general practitioner consultations in 2019.

The significance of obtaining suitable relief through targeted remedies is undeniable given this prevalence; however, decisions must be carefully considered in light of potential side effects from decongestant misuse, such as rebound congestion, a cycle of dependence brought on by prolonged use without seeking medical advice.

What Are Nasal Decongestants?

Nasal decongestants are the first line of treatment for congestion or stuffy noses. They set themselves apart as over-the-counter drugs designed to provide temporary relief from sinus pain caused by colds, allergies, and infections.

In essence, these drugs work by narrowing the blood channels in the nasal lining. This action effectively reduces swelling and irritation, which opens up clogged nasal passages and makes breathing easier.

Generally separated into two groups—topical and oral—each one has similar therapeutic benefits but operates differently. Compared to oral forms, such as pills or liquids, which have systemic effects on the body, topical forms, such as sprays, offer more rapid benefits by providing localised treatment that is specifically targeted at inflamed sinuses.

Benefits of Nasal Decongestants

Nasal decongestants are a lifeline for anyone with congestion in their nose. These over-the-counter drugs are the recommended treatment for sinus pain due to their numerous benefits.

By reducing swelling and constricting blood vessels in inflamed nasal passages, they first make breathing easier. These medications help restore normalcy quickly and effectively because stuffy noses often disrupt this basic yet essential bodily function.

They also help people get better sleep. By unclogging nose structures, decongestants help reduce nasal congestion and encourage restful, uninterrupted sleep. Because nasal congestion forces mouth breathing, it might result in dryness or snoring, which can be uncomfortable.

Their ability to treat allergy-related symptoms, including hay fever, where blocked, congested nostrils remain a key irritation but frequent sneezing and watery, itchy eyes are the most common symptoms, is another overlooked benefit. These pharmacological treatments also effectively address this issue.

Our Top Spray Picks

Best Overall: Mometasone Nasal Spray

Also Great: Clarinaze Allergy Control Nasal Spray

Best for all age: Nasofed Saline Nasal Spray

Best dual action: Otrivine Extra Dual Relief Nasal Spray

Best Long Acting: Afrin No Drip Severe Congestion

Best For Irrigation: NeilMed Adult SinuRinse nasal irrigation kit

Best for children: Otrivine Child Nasal Drops

Our Best Tablet Picks

Best for congestion: SUDAFED Decongestant

Best For Cold: Actifed Multi-Action Tablets

Best dual action: Benadryl Allergy Relief Plus Decongestant

Mometasone Nasal Spray

Mometasone Nasal Spray is a well-known nasal decongestant that was developed to address the symptoms of seasonal allergies and perennial rhinitis. Mometasone, its main component, is an equally strong corticosteroid that helps lessen cold-like symptoms and inflammation caused by many allergens.

Why We Like It?

The distinctive feature of Mometasone spray is its comprehensive spectrum treatment for both common and chronic rhinitis, which relieves sinus pain and red or watery eyes that commonly accompany allergy episodes in addition to symptoms like runny nose, itching, and sneezing. Memetasone, a corticosteroid recognised for its potent anti-inflammatory properties, is added to this medication to give it an extra push and provide immediate relief. 

The average price of this highly praised nasal decongestant at Welzo is £18.99.

Customers frequently rate it highly, complimenting its easy-to-use features and speedy results. According to one satisfied client, "A lifesaver during hay fever season!" "Notable differences within hours!" says another.

Pros	Cons
Broad Spectrum Allergy Relief Contains Powerful Anti-Inflammatory Mometasone	Not suitable for long term use without medical consultation Might cause mild side effects in some individuals such as dryness/irritation inside nose

Clarinaze Allergy Control Nasal Spray

The groundbreaking Clarinaze Allergy Control Nasal Spray helps reduce the symptoms of hay fever and other seasonal allergies. This specially designed spray offers immediate relief from sneezing, congestion, runny nose, and itching by reducing nasal tube irritation. Each nasal spray contains 50 microgrammes of mometasone furoate, glycerol, and dispersible cellulose.

Why we like it

What makes this medication unique is its versatility—it works against a variety of allergies throughout the year, not only when pollen counts are high. is ideal for anyone who wants to quickly get rid of bothersome allergy symptoms and is often on the go because it comes in an easy-to-use container.

At a price of £17.82, it is available at welzo. Reviews indicate that a lot of individuals find it useful, especially praising the well-designed pocket-sized containers' instant mitigation effects and useful usage techniques. 

Pros	Cons
Quick Allergen Relief	Possible Dryness Sensation Versatile Coverage For Multiple Seasonal Triggers

Nasofed Relief Saline Nasal Spray

Nasofed Saline Nasal Spray is a useful treatment for nasal congestion symptoms. It provides safe and effective treatment for people of all ages by clearing obstructed nose passages and treating ailments like hay fever, respiratory discomforts, and dry nasal mucosa.

This product employs an isotonic buffered saline solution with 0.9% sodium chloride and other additives like EDTA and PHMB to ensure optimal performance.

Why we like it

Because of its general effectiveness and ease of use for a variety of age groups, it is a fan favourite. Its recipe, which is gentle but powerful enough to induce instant relaxation, is what sets it apart.

They are reasonably priced at around £2.74. User reviews highlight quick effects alongside handy device design facilitating smooth administration but few have reported temporary mild stinging post usage.

Pros	Cons
Effective Congestion Relief	Slight Stinging Sensation

Otrivine Extra Dual Relief Nasal Spray

Otrivine Extra Dual Relief Nasal Spray is an effective remedy for symptoms of non-allergic rhinitis, such as stuffy and runny noses. The active chemicals, Xylometazoline Hydrochloride and Ipratropium Bromide, which are meant to reduce nasal flow, sinus pressure, congestion, and recurrent sneezing, are precisely measured in each application.

When we like it

The unique fusion of two powerful ingredients is what makes otrivine so alluring to us. By addressing inflammation caused by swollen blood vessels and decreasing mucus overproduction in the nose tissues, it effectively treats both diseases, providing total relief!

It costs £7.91 and can be purchased from Welzo. Numerous consumers like its rapid onset action against bothersome cold symptoms, as well as its simplified dosage distribution systems.

Pros	Cons
Rapid Onset Action Against Congestion/Sneezes	Potential For Mild Nose Dryness Strict Adherence Needed Within Recommended Use Guidelines

Afrin No Drip Severe Congestion

The most potent nasal congestion remedy is Afrin No Drip Severe Congestion, which comes in a 15 mL spray container. When combined with menthol, Afrin offers instant relief from sinus and nasal congestion issues. Breathing is made considerably simpler by the unique no-drip system, which prevents any unwanted residue from running down your nose or neck.

Why we like it

Because of its amazing 12-hour long-lasting action, which helps with ongoing relief throughout the day, and its simple pump mist form, which offers immediate symptom control, Afrin is ideal for people who seek long-lasting comfort with ease of use. Consumers commend Afrin for its extended hours of efficacy and its prompt action in alleviating severe congestion.

Pros	Cons
Persistent Relief Over 12 Hours Instant Acting With Convenient Application Features	Might Cause Temporary Worsening Symptoms If Overused Close Adherence Needed Within Usage Guidelines

Neilmed Adult Nasal Irrigation Sinus Rinse Complete Kit

The NeilMed Adult SinuRinse nasal irrigation kit is a natural solution for nose issues because it uses salt for effective irrigation. Low positive pressure rinses are helpful for efficiently cleaning the nose of mucus, which improves the effectiveness of drugs, according to recent medical research. It reduces oedema and eliminates allergens and irritants, which improves airflow in the nasal passages.

Why we like it

The versatility of SinuRinse is remarkable as it relieves sinus, allergy, and common cold symptoms. This product is a multipurpose buddy for individuals of all ages because it also offers the required treatment for environmental irritations brought on by dust, smoke, and pollen.

priced at £13.01 at welzo. Customers have applauded its all-inclusive features universally especially hailing relief provided against occupational/environmental induced inconveniences besides seasonal triggers.

Pros	Cons
Versatile Coverage Against Variety Of Triggers	Might Cause Minor Uneasiness For First Time Users Gradual Familiarity Needed Adjusting With Product Use Dynamics

Otrivine Child Nasal Drops

For children with clogged or stuffy noses, Otrivine Child Nasal Drops are a specially formulated solution. These nasal drops aid youngsters with sinusitis, allergic rhinitis, chronic rhinitis, and the common cold because of their fast-acting decongestant properties.

Why we like it

The primary ingredient, xylometazoline hydrochloride, acts rapidly to lessen nasal mucus production and swollen blood vessels. Our unique action provides immediate comfort by unlocking blocked channels in just two minutes. This is a godsend for kids who struggle because of nasal blockages.

This product may be purchased from welzo’s online pharmacies and is reasonably priced at approximately £4.27.

Pros	Cons
Instant Relief Within 2 Minutes Effective Against Varied Causes Of Congestion	Occasional Reports Of Mild Nose Sensitivity Post Usage Careful Supervision Needed During Administration Given Target Demographic Is Kids

Sudafed Decongestant

SUDAFED Decongestant Tablets are a well-known product for relieving nasal and sinus congestion. These tablets make it easier to fight off stuffiness caused by colds, the flu, or allergies like hay fever by reducing nasal channel swelling for comfortable breathing.

Pseudoephedrine hydrochloride, the active ingredient in SUDAFED, offers effective relief. In order to facilitate mucus movement and lessen the uncomfortable blocked feeling that is commonly associated with sinus issues, it acts on the swollen blood vessels in the nose, which facilitates breathing.

Why we like it

Sudafed's "non-drowsy" promise is even more intriguing than its notable ease of swallowing. Its decongestant properties might be beneficial without the sedative side effects that are occasionally associated with these medications—a real plus.

It is available at welzo e-pharmacy and it costs £3.94. Customers frequently praise it for its quick action in curing catarrh in addition to the fact that it is reasonably priced.

Pros	Cons
Quick Action Against Congestion Non-Drowsy Nature Ensuring Uninterrupted Routine Activities	Few Instances Of Dry Mouth After Use Might Need Adequate Hydration Post Use

Actifed Multi-Action Tabs

Actifed Multi-Action Tablets are very effective at treating nasal congestion. Tablets containing pseudoephedrine hydrochloride that function as decongestants swiftly unclog sinuses. It is also administered with triprolidine hydrochloride, an antihistamine that lessens watery eyes and sneezing.

Why we like it

By focusing on the cause of cold or allergy-related irritation, these portable dynamites offer immediate relief from clogged noses and stop annoying runny noses. They continue to be active after it.

It is available at welzo for the price of £5.42. Reviewers mention Actifeds as a go-to remedy for targeted symptom management and express satisfaction with its instantaneous effects following ingestion.

Pros	Cons
Muzzles Sneezes And Watery Eyes Unclogs Sinuses Allowing Breath Of Relief	Potential Sleepy Aftermath

Benadryl Allergy Relief Plus Decongestant

Benadryl Allergy Relief Plus Decongestant is a medicine formulation that is available in convenient capsule form and is used to treat hay fever and other allergy-related conditions. Each capsule contains acrivastine, an antihistamine that relieves common allergy symptoms, and pseudoephedrine hydrochloride, a decongestant that effectively reduces sinus and nasal congestion.

Why we like it

The dual-action efficacy of this medication is truly amazing. By combining the potencies of decongestant and antihistamine chemicals into one formulation, Benadryl provides a comprehensive approach to treating bothersome allergy symptoms.

Costs a reasonable £7.36 and is available at welzo. Its broad therapeutic qualities against a range of allergic irritants are praised by users, and its convenient dosage forms make it simple to take.

Pros	Cons
Combats Multiple Allergic Symptoms Simultaneously Capsule Format Ensuring Convenient Dosage	Some Reports Of Inducing Sleepiness

Bottom line

Allergies, colds, and infections are common causes of nasal congestion, a painful condition that affects people of all ages. Nasal decongestants have gained popularity as treatments for this uncomfortable condition because of their ability to reduce nasal tube irritation and so facilitate breathing.

Each product had unique benefits and minor disadvantages that could be managed with careful use, highlighting the need of choosing products according to personal preferences and needs in order to enhance advantages and limit risks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best decongestant for a stuffy nose?

When choosing "the best" decongestant or treatment method for a stuffy nose, a person's symptoms, overall health, and personal preferences all play a big part. However, Clarinaze Allergy Control Nasal Spray and Afrin No Drip Severe Congestion Maximum Strength 12 Hour Nasal Decongestant are two of the most frequently recommended over-the-counter nasal decongestants due to their rapid action and efficacy in relieving congestion.

Which tablet is best for a blocked nose?

Because they reduce nasal tract oedema, which facilitates the passage of mucus, pseudoephedrine-based oral drugs, like SUDAFED Decongestant, are commonly suggested as an effective treatment for clogged noses.

How to unblock a stuffy nose?

Unblocking a stuffy nose involves doing things like drinking lots of water, applying warm compresses around your nose, and inhaling steam—possibly from a hot shower or bowl of hot water—with a towel draped overhead to trap the steam and effectively breathe it into your sinuses. This is in addition to using sea-salt flush (neti pot) under the proper conditions that promote natural clearance.

What is the best nasal spray for stuffy nose?

Customers praise Otrivine Extra Dual Relief Nasal Spray function, which treats both runny and clogged noses, making it stand out in a competitive market for people who like spray solutions.