I've always used it, usually on my hand and then slept with my hand near my nose.

You could always try
a vapouriser (being a grown-up, you can move your nose closer to the steam at times too),
Saline nasal spray (I think you can use the other sort for maybe 3 days, the bottle usually says to check with a doc/pharmacist first though),
And gargling with saltwater (really surprisingly effective!), to clear mucous that harbours bacteria.

Get well soon!