| Method | Speed of relief | Duration of use | Best for | |--------|----------------|----------------|----------| | Saline rinse | 5-15 min | Unlimited | All types | | Oral decongestant | 30-60 min | Up to 7 days | Severe acute cold | | Topical decongestant spray | 1-2 min | 3 days max | Emergency relief | | Steroid spray | 12-48 hours | Weeks to months | Allergic/chronic | | Elevation | Immediate | As needed | Nighttime/when lying down |