5 Ways To Unblock A Stuffy Nose

Nasal congestion happens when something irritates tissues lining the inside of your nose. The irritation sets off a chain reaction of inflammation, swelling, and mucus production, making it hard to take in air through your nose.

Nasal congestion often happens with conditions such as rhinitis. There are two kinds of rhinitis — allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and nonallergic rhinitis.

Signs Of Nasal Congestion

Allergic Rhinitis

• Pollen: When trees and plants bloom in the spring, summer, and fall, they produce pollen that may make its way to your nose, setting off an allergic reaction.
• Dust mites: Even the cleanest environments may have dust mites that live in carpeting, furniture, and bedding.
• Mold: Mold sends out spores that may cause allergic reactions.
• Pet dander: Some people are very allergic to dander from furry friends.

Nonallergic Rhinitis

• Environmental: Stress, exposure to smoke, paint fumes, or spicy food are examples of substances that can cause nasal congestion.
• Medications: You can develop nasal congestion if you take certain medications for high blood pressure or pain.
• Hormonal: Hormonal changes like going through puberty or being pregnant may trigger nasal congestion.
• Infections: Sinus infections (sinusitis) or the common cold may cause nasal congestion.
• Enlarged adenoids: Adenoids are glands located just behind your nasal passage. They help trap germs. Sometimes, adenoids swell, causing nasal congestion.

5 Remedies To Get Rid Of Stuffy Nose

Warm Compress

A warm compress can help unclog a stuffy nose by reducing inflammation and opening the nasal cavity. You can apply hot pressure from the outside of your nose which will help you tremendously. It may help relieve the inflammation in your nostrils and sinuses and make it easier to breathe.

Honey

Honey is versatile that is helpful in every diseased condition. It is a rich source of powerful nutrients such as vitamins and minerals. It also has an antibacterial property that helps fight against various bacterial infections. Honey can calm the nasal passage, irritate the throat and clear the excess accumulation of mucus.

Peppermint

Peppermint and its main active ingredient, menthol, are natural decongestants and may even thin out the gunk in your chest. You’ll find them in many chest rubs and cough drops. You can also drink peppermint tea. Buy it from the store, or make your own: Steep 1 teaspoon of dried peppermint in a cup of boiling water for 10 minutes. Drink a cup up to five times a day.

Hydration

It is always a good idea to drink plenty of water, and some people say that this helps reduce nasal congestion.

However, experts have found no evidence from trusted Sources to suggest that drinking additional fluids can help relieve symptoms, and they advise people to consume only what is comfortable.

Take Medications

A congested nose can be uncomfortable, but some other over-the-counter (OTC) medications may clear out your nasal passages and bring relief.

Make sure to speak with a pharmacist when choosing a decongestant, antihistamine, or allergy medication. The pharmacist can also answer any questions you may have about a particular medication.