Hello,

Common cold is caused by virus and is usually self limiting resolving 4 to 7 days even without treatment in most cases. Nasal congestion is the common symptom of common cold due to swelling of the nasal lining of skin caused by enlarged and inflamed blood vessels. This gives a blocked or stuffy feeling in the nose. The feeling you have must be due to this nasal congestion and is nothing to worry as it usually takes a few days to get normal after getting a cold.

Drink a lot of water and avoid cold foods, ice creams or beverages till you get well. You can use decongestants like Oxymetazoline, Nephazoline, Phenyl ephrine or Pseudoephedrine. Decongestants are available as nasal sprays and relieve the congestion. Oral decongestants are also available. You can use these over the counter decongestants for a week or so till you get relief but, prolonged usage may cause rebound congestion. Antihistamines like cetrizine can be used for symptomatic relief but may make you feel sleepy.

Visit your doctor in case your symptoms do not resolve in a week. Thank you.