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| 17 Effective Ways To Clear Your Stuffy Nose |
A stuffy nose is a condition that affects us all from time to time. A stuffy nose can be irritating. A stuffy nose condition may get worsen at night, as more blood flow towards your head and nose causes more inflammation in your nasal passage. A blocked nose can hamper your night sleep. Your nose is dripping. You sound funny when you talk. And as soon as you want to blow your nose so that you can finally breathe again, nothing comes out. Many people think that a stuffy nose is the result of too much mucus in the nasal passages. However, the blocked nose is actually caused by swollen blood vessels in the muscles. These irritated vessels are often the result of a cold, flu, allergy, or sinus infection. When your sinuses are infected with a virus (like the common cold), it often leads to a stuffy nose. The problem of a blocked nose is generally perceived during the onset of cold weather or season change.
Whatever the reason for your stuffy nose, there are some simple ways to get rid of it. In many cases, it can be easily handled at home. There are numerous natural remedies that can help you to clear the stuffy nose. Here are a few things you can do now to feel better and breathe better.
1. Use A Humidifier
The humidifier provides a quick, easy way to reduce the pain of the sinus and relieve a stuffy nose. A dry nose can feel uncomfortable and more susceptible to mucus. Humidifiers moisturize the air, prevent excessive dryness, and reduce discomfort during breathing due to congestion. The machine converts water into moisture that fills the air to some extent, increasing the humidity in the room. Breathing in this wet air can relieve irritated tissue and inflammation of the arteries in your nose and sinuses. Humidifiers also reduce mucus in your sinuses. This can help drain the fluid from your nose and restore your normal breathing. Although warm-mist and cold-mist humidifiers are equally effective, it is best to use a cold-mist humidifier for a child, to avoid accidental burns from the warm vapor. Install a humidifier in your room to reduce the swelling that causes your congestion. And be sure to keep your humidifier clean to prevent the growth of germs and fungi. Follow the cleaning instructions that come with the humidifier, or simply wipe it daily with a 10% bleach solution (nine parts water to one part bleach).
2. Take A Hot Shower
Have you ever had a stuffy nose and found that you could breathe
better after a hot bath? There is a good reason for that. Water vapor during the shower enters the respiratory system in a way that breaks any barrier, helping
to retrieve the deep breath that had been lost. In addition, a small amount of
hot water in the congested passages can also help you to combat congestion by
reducing mucus and inflammation in your nose. Do not worry that the bath may
worsen your condition. Once you’re done with your shower, dry off well and you
shouldn’t have any problems. Remember it is also important to wash those germs
from all your sneezing and coughing.
If you are still worrying to take bath, you can get the same effect by breathing in the hot water in the sink. Here's how: Turn on the hot water in your bathroom sink. When the temperature is right, place a towel over your head and place your head in the sink. Allow the water vapor to build up, and take a deep breath. Be careful not to burn your face in hot water or steam.
3. Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of warm water. Almost all fluids can help you relieve
a stuffy nose. Staying hydrated helps to reduce mucus in your nasal passages
and reduce the pressure on your sinuses. Many people swear by drinking
beverages, especially hot drinks, to help relieve a stuffy nose. Although it is
important to keep plenty of fluids - especially if you do not feel well - the
effect of hot fluids on the congestion, in particular, can be felt up to the
placebo effect.
Researchers who separated a group of people with flu-like symptoms
gave half of them a drink with a normal room temperature and the other half a
hot drink; found that no improvement could be measured in the nasal stuffiness
in either group. Interestingly, however, the group that drank the hot drink
reported the greatest relief from symptoms. Researchers also speculate that in
addition to the placebo effect, the taste of hot drinks also contributed to a
positive response.
Therefore, be sure to keep yourself hydrated by regular drinking water, juice, tea, or soup. If your stuffy nose is accompanied by a sore throat, warm tea and soup will help reduce the discomfort in your throat, too. These have been used traditionally in many cultures, and are safe, but have little research evidence to support their specific use in nasal congestion.
ALSO READ: 13 WARNING SYMPTOMS OF DEHYDRATION MOST PEOPLE IGNORE
4. Irrigate Your Sinuses With
Neti Pot
If you have nasal congestion due to cold or allergies, you may
want to consider using a neti pot. A neti pot is a container designed to remove
mucus and fluid from your nasal passages. While these teapot-shaped devices may
seem like the latest trend in alternative medicine, the neti pot is nothing
new. Used for centuries in yoga and Ayurvedic practitioners in India, nasal
spraying is a gentle and effective way to clear the nasal passages and mucous
membranes. In addition, Chinese researchers have found that saline irrigation
has reduced the need for steroidal sprays in children with allergies. Neti is
safe for daily use.
Here's how to use a neti pot: To use this natural remedy, fill the neti pot with a saline solution made with warm water and salt. Stand with your head over the sink. Position the spout of the neti pot in one nostril while tilting your head to the other side. Tilt the neti pot until the saline water enters your nasal passages. Allowing the solution to flow into your nasal passage and drain out into the sink through the other nostril. Do this for about a minute, and then change sides. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommend using sterile or distilled water instead of tap water.
5. Control Your Breathing
Controlling your breathing is another good way to clear your
entire nose. Breathing exercises are an easy way to remove nasal obstruction as
it can be done anywhere and does not require special equipment. It works
because holding your breath can encourage nasal passages to widen. You should
try to breathe through your nose rather than your mouth to prevent the return
of nasal congestion. Oral breathing can increase the production of mucus and
cause congestion of the airways, which can make the blocked nose worse.
How do you do it?
·
Sit up
straight and take a deep breath.
·
Inhale
through your nose for two seconds and then exhale for three seconds. If your
nose is blocked so that you can breathe through it, you can take a small amount
of air in the corner of your mouth instead.
·
Pinch your
nose gently and keep your mouth closed. Shake your head slowly while holding
your breath for as long as possible.
·
Make sure
you breathe through your nose when you can't hold it. Keep your breaths as calm
as possible.
· Wait for a few minutes before resuming this breathing exercise. Continue until your nose is unclogged.
6. Apply A Warm Compress
Warm compress is traditionally considered one of the best remedies for nasal congestion, compressing helps to open the nasal passages and reduce nasal congestion. If you are looking for a quick, easy solution for nasal congestion, you can apply a hot compress using the things you have at home. While this gives temporary relief from a stuffed nose, it will not much help in the long run.
How to apply:
To make a warm compress, first, soak a towel in warm water and squeeze excess water from the towel. Then wrap it up on your nose and on your forehead. Before you put it on your face, make sure you check that it is not too hot. Keep repeating this from time to time, the warmth of a wet towel will provide great comfort and reduce swelling in the nose.
7. Massage Your Sinuses
Surprisingly as it may sound, giving your sinuses a finger massage
will increase circulation to the area and help alleviate the pain. Sinuses are
the void space near the nasal septum. A lot of mucus can build up here, so use
a circular massage to help relieve it and reduce pressure and clogging.
How do you do it?
·
With your
fingers and middle fingers, place your fingers just below your eye sockets and
move them in a circular motion.
·
Do this for
20 to 30 seconds. Be careful not to press on the areas near your nose and under
your eyes.
· Finally, press your thumbs next to your cheeks and rub those using circular outward movements.
8. Eat Spicy Food To Clear The Stuffy Nose
If you are a spice lover, now is the time to indulge in all of
your favorite spicy foods. This remedy is for all the spice-junkies out there.
Spicy food helps to relieve mucus, which will also clear your blocked sinus. To
use these ingredients, add ingredients to your diet like onions and garlic,
preferably raw, or condiments like wasabi. You can also eat hot green peppers.
Do not overuse this. Extremely spicy foods can damage your stomach.
9. Use A Saline Spray
Appling saline spray is another step to keep your nasal passage hydrated. Using a nasal spray can increase the amount of moisture in your nose. The spray helps to reduce mucus in your nasal passages. The saline solution reduces inflammation of your blood vessels and helps clear the fluid from your nose. There are many saline nasal sprays available over the counter. Some saline sprays also include decongestants. Talk to your doctor before you start using saline sprays with decongestants. It can actually make your congestion worse if used for more than three days. They can also cause side effects when used in combination with other medications.
10. Sniffing The Aroma Of
Essential Oils
Eucalyptus contains an essential oil that has been scientifically proven as a home remedy for a number of bacterial infections that cause respiratory problems such as a stuffy nose. Strong anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties of eucalyptus oil help in reducing inflammation and fighting infection. While lavender oil calms the mind and lemon oil being a powerful analgesic that relieves pain. An aroma made by mixing eucalyptus oil in warm water can help relieve nasal congestion within 10 - 20 minutes. This has also proven to be effective in relieving a blocked nose. Mint is an enemy of mucus. As you know, mint is widely used in respiratory problems associated with colds. The menthol in peppermint helps loosen mucus and opens up nasal passages. These compounds that work so well that after a small sniff of menthol or menthol-ointments, your problem will disappear in minutes.
How do you do it?
To help with a stuffy nose, mix 5 drops of pure eucalyptus oil in one liter of boiling water in a bowl. Lean on top of the bowl, cover your head and bowl with a thick towel, and inhale the vapor for 10-15 minutes. Repeat three or four times a day to unclog the stuffy nose. The same can be done by using peppermint oil again.
11. Honey
Honey can reduce nasal congestion, sore throat, and clear mucus from nasal secretions. Honey is a very easy source of nutrients. Having a stuffy nose can cause people to breathe through their mouths, leaving the throat dry and painful. When a person already has a cough or a sore throat, this can make it difficult to sleep. Honey wears a sore throat, soothes discomfort. Honey can act as a cough suppressant. A 2014 study was conducted, comparing honey with placebo and short-acting bronchodilator salbutamol in children with the common cold. Honey was the most effective way to reduce the symptoms of a cough. Children may also be more willing to try honey than medicine. For people without honey allergies, the risk of side effects or adverse reactions is very low.
How do you do it?
Taking 2 teaspoons of pure honey and milk, tea or water can be a complete nasal remedy. Be sure to do this as part of your daily routine if you are constantly exposed to a blocked nose.
12. Herbal Tea
Tea is a popular hot beverage all over the world. It's anti-oxidant properties are a popular treatment for many ailments and disorders. Being a blend of berry, thyme, rosemary, peppermint, and chamomile, herbal tea is a great remedy for a stuffy nose. This is very effective in combating nasal congestion. Thyme is antibacterial and menthol in mint is a natural decongestant for easy breathing. Most people consider drinking herbal tea as an excellent home remedy for a stuffy nose; however, research into this aspect suggests that the steam inhaled while drinking this hot liquid is the reason for the success of this home remedy as to a decongestant.
How do you do it?
While preparing your regular tea, add a list of these herbs and take them daily. Drinking a cup of herbal tea every 4 hours provides relief from stuffy noses and associated symptoms.
13. Apple Cider Vinegar
Next time you have a stuffy nose, grab some apple cider vinegar.
This all-around home remedy contains potassium, which loosens the mucus; and
the acetic acid in it inhibits bacterial growth, which can contribute to nasal
congestion.
How do you do it?
Put two teaspoons of Apple cider vinegar in a cup of warm water and drink it at least three times a day. Adding a tablespoon of honey enhances the taste and increases the effectiveness of the drink. This solution provides good relief from all problems related to the congested nose and sinuses.
14. Pepper
Pepper is probably the best remedy for a stuffy nose. Cayenne
pepper contains capsaicin that dries up mucus from the nasal passages, making
it easier to breathe. It is also an anti-inflammatory spice and can reduce
puffiness, nasal congestion.
How do you do it?
Sprinkle cayenne pepper on your favorite food, or drink hot tea by adding 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper powder to a cup of boiling water. You may also put one teaspoon of black pepper and one teaspoon of honey in boiling water. Mix well and drink to get maximum relief from a stuffy nose.
15. Fenugreek
Boil some fenugreek seeds in a glass of water, and drink it when warm. Drink this solution at least 2-3 times a day for immediate results. This is a great home remedy for unclogging a stuffy nose. A mixture of wet fenugreek and hot water will dissolve mucus and clear your nostrils and sinuses.
16. Try decongestants
A decongestant can help reduce inflammation and reduce the pain
associated with irritated nasal passages. Many decongestants are available
without a prescription. They come in two forms: a nasal spray and a pill. Common
nasal decongestants include oxymetazoline and phenylephrine. Common
decongestant pills include pseudoephedrine. Many of these medicines are stored
at the pharmacy counter, so you will need to get them from a pharmacist.
Use all decongestants correctly and safely. You should not take the decongestant for more than three days without a doctor's prescription. After three days, a nasal decongestant may make your congestion and stuffiness worse.
17. Take Antihistamines Or
Anti-Allergic Medicines
You may want to take an antihistamine or anti-allergy drug if your
stuffed nose is the result of an allergy. Both of these types of medications
can reduce inflammation in your nasal passages, helping to keep your nose
clear. Combined medications containing antihistamines and decongestants can
reduce sinus pressure and inflammation caused by an allergic reaction.
Follow the instructions for these medicines carefully. If you don't, you can make your situation worse. It should be noted that antihistamines can make you drowsy. If you are not sure how an antihistamine will affect you, do not take medication, especially when you need to remain active or productive.
All these natural treatments should provide relief from the stress and pain of a stuffy nose and help to breathe free.
WHEN TO SEE A
DOCTOR
The common cold often causes a stuffy nose. Antibiotics and other
drugs will not cure a viral cold, so there is little that a doctor can do. It is best to drink plenty of fluids and get
as much sleep or rest as possible to give the body time to recover. Symptoms of the common cold can last between
2 days and 2 weeks. People with the flu usually recover within a week, but some
symptoms may last for two weeks or more.
See a doctor if:
1.
A person
with a weakened immune system, such as an elderly or a child, has flu-like
symptoms. Early flu treatment can reduce the severity of the disease.
2.
The child
has symptoms of congestion. Babies under two months of age breathe through
their noses, so congestion can quickly cause respiratory problems.
3.
A person may
find it difficult to breathe or show signs of respiratory problems, such as
rapid heartbeat, blue lips, rapid breathing, dizziness, or severe changes in
mood or personality.
4.
The person
has congestion for more than 2 weeks or finds that it is getting worse over a
few days.
5.
A person has
a high fever of 103.1 ° F (39.5 ° C) or a fever that lasts longer than a few
days.
6.
A person has
a runny nose and symptoms of asthma attacks, such as sudden shortness of breath,
shortness of breath or shortness of breath.
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