Stuffy nose: Standing vs. Sitting.

[ParentalAdvisory]

Usually, while sitting, my nose can become quite stuffy when in the midst of a cold. But when I stand up, it magically gets better and is much easier to clear my nose. What's going on here?

[pennystheman]

I think it has something to do with the evolutionary process. If you get on your hands and knees or lay facedown, it will clear out your sinus cavity as well.

[johnolsovsky]

I've experienced this same phenomenon myself and the difference can be quite dramatic and instantaneous. Lying down only exacerbates the congestion. I have to assume it is due to blood pressure -- that while standing, blood pressure in your head decreases to such a level as to alleviate congestion. The congestion then must be caused more by dialated blood vessels in the sinuses than by mucous.

[corvidae]

I've noticed this, too. Sometimes when I'm really congested, jumping up and down helps. Weird, huh?