How many days should a blocked or stuffy nose last?

The length of time a blocked nose will trouble you will depend on what is causing the problem. In general:

1. A blocked nose due to a cold or flu should not last more than a few days. The symptom is usually experienced at the start of the infection and as other symptoms resolve, your blocked nose should also clear. To help speed up recovery, we would recommend the use of Echinacea

2. Symptoms of a blocked nose as a result of an allergy can last for a longer period of time, dependent on what the allergy is, whether or not you are still being exposed to the trigger factors. Certain allergies are not easily avoided (eg. pollen) and anti-allergy remedies or nasal sprays can help

3. Lastly, a blocked nose can be the result of nasal polyps or a structural defect in the nasal bones. In these situations, symptoms can be very persistent and may not resolve until the primary condition is treated, which may involve a minor surgical procedure.

Of course, there will be other reasons for a blocked nose apart from the more common causes described above. If you are concerned or if symptoms persist, it will be a good idea to see a doctor with the aim of getting a diagnosis.