It is common for people to experience a sensation of one nostril being more blocked than the other when lying on their side. This phenomenon is known as the "nasal cycle." The nasal cycle is a natural and normal physiological process that occurs in most people.
The nasal cycle is regulated by the autonomic nervous system, which controls various involuntary processes in the body. Throughout the day, the autonomic nervous system alternates the blood flow and congestion between the right and left nostrils, causing one nostril to be more open and the other to be more blocked at different times.
When you lie on your right side, the blood flow and congestion in the nasal passages may shift, causing the left nostril to feel more open and the right nostril to feel more blocked. When you switch to lying on your left side, the sensation may reverse.
This cyclic nasal airflow serves several purposes, including moisturizing and cleansing the nasal passages and helping to equalize the workload on the nostrils. It can also help with smelling different scents more effectively.
While the nasal cycle is generally considered normal, certain factors may exaggerate the feeling of nasal congestion or cause chronic nasal blockage in one nostril. Some possible causes include:
Allergies: Seasonal allergies or allergies to environmental triggers can cause nasal congestion and inflammation, making one nostril feel more blocked.
Deviated septum: A deviated septum is when the wall between the nostrils is off-center or crooked, which can lead to one nostril being more obstructed than the other.
Nasal polyps: These are non-cancerous growths that can develop in the nasal passages and cause blockage.
Sinus infections: Infections in the sinuses can lead to swelling and congestion in the nasal passages.
Rhinitis: Inflammation of the nasal lining due to various causes can lead to chronic congestion.
If you find that the nasal obstruction is persistent, bothersome, or accompanied by other symptoms such as pain, recurrent infections, or difficulty breathing, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. They can assess your condition, identify any underlying issues, and provide appropriate treatment or management options.