It's common knowledge that stuffy noses get stuffier when one lays down. But, why is that?While it's normal to think that a blocked nose is due to congestion, that isn't the main problem. Although congestion can play a part, there are reasons for blockage that actually contribute more to the issues. Laying down causes gravity to pull more on the body. That means blood flows more and the upper part of the body, especially, experiences a faster, higher rate of blood circulation. The nasal cavity has many blood vessels, most of them tiny.
They tend to become inflammed at times and when this happens and one is lying down, it is more pronounced. Furthermore, the nose is more likely to collect mucus when in a horizontal position. Another factor is that there is less going on and the stuffiness is more noted because an individual is still and quiet, able to pay attention to blockage and their difficulty breathing.Nose blockage is definiately worse at night for most people. Running essential oil through a diffuser with eucalypus or another respriatory aid is helpful.