Cold & cough1 min
An Extra Pillow When the Nose Is Blocked
Resting the head slightly higher on an extra pillow at night to ease a blocked nose and post-nasal drip during a cold. A simple comfort habit.
Gravity helps a little
Lying flat can make a blocked nose and post-nasal drip feel worse. Raising the head and shoulders slightly with an extra pillow may help mucus drain and make breathing feel easier.
Stack pillows so the neck is supported, not bent sharply. Use a bowl of steaming water at a safe distance if you like. This is a comfort habit and not a treatment for a cold.
Ingredients
- 1 extra pillow
- A box of tissues
- A glass of warm water
How to prepare
- Place the pillow so it supports the shoulders as well as the head.
- Keep tissues within reach.
How to use
- Sleep with the head slightly raised.
- Sip warm water if the throat is dry.
Helpful habits
- Blow the nose gently.
- Keep the room humid and not too cold.
Precautions
- Do not use hot water near children.
- Difficulty breathing, high fever or a long-lasting cold needs a doctor.
- A comfort habit, not a treatment.
Frequently asked questions
How high should I raise?
- A gentle slope; not a sharp bend.
Is it safe for babies?
- No, never use pillows for babies; ask your doctor.
Will it cure the cold?
- No, it only helps comfort.
