Nasal Congestion as much as we hate it is a very common phenomena. Thanks to the daily dose of pollution we encounter in our day to day lives. Extra mucus is produced in the lining of the nose to flush out the allergens, irritants or infections. Clear breathing is everybody’s right and nasal congestion should not hinder us from going on with our daily activities. In this article we have listed five ways to get relief nasal congestion within minutes because no sane person wants a congestion to last a minute longer.
1. Keep the air around you moist.
When congested it is important to keep the nasal passages and sinuses moist. Dry nasal passage can irritate the sinus membranes further.
To keep your nasal passages moist stay well hydrated by increasing your fluids intake. This will help in thinning out the hard mucus, which will clear up the blocked sinuses. You can also place a wet towel dipped in hot water over your nose which will aid in opening your nasal passages.
Use a humidifier to keep the air moist. Don’t worry if you do not have a humidifier because in our next way we cover this issue.
2. Steam Therapy.
Steam therapy has been in practice since ancient civilization for the numerous health benefits it provides. It involves inhaling hot water vapor which :
- Thins out hard mucous and thus making it easier to expel it out by coughing or blowing the nose
- Relieves dry nasal and throat passages.
- Soothes soreness and inflammation of the throat by relaxing the throat muscles
- Dilates blood vessels, encouraging better blood flow and overall circulation
You can inhale steam from either an electronic steam inhaler or simply from a bowl of hot water by placing a towel over your head to forming a tent, creating a mini sauna. Keep a distance of 15-2-cm between your face and the steam so as not to damage your skin with the hot steam.
3. Essential Oils:
Essential oils have been in use in health remedies for hundreds of years. Essential oils like Eucalyptus and Peppermint oils are known for clearing congestion, reduce inflammation, relieve pain and also fight bacteria.
Peppermint oil:
Peppermint oil contains menthol which may affect the mucus receptors in the nose, helping to open the airways and clear mucus. Lab studies have shown that peppermint oil is effective in fighting bacteria and also reduce inflammation. A few drops of the essential oil can be added during steam inhalation or can be added in a diffuser.
Eucalyptus Oil:
Eucalyptus oil can relieve the symptoms of colds and coughs, including sinus congestion. Eucalyptus oil contains a compound called cineole which is effective in treatment for sinus ,headache, inflammation.
However always remember that essential oils are very potent and hence they need to be always diluted with carrier oils when applying directly to the skin. And also always test for any allergic reaction by applying a few drops of diluted essential oil to the skin. If there is no reaction in 24 hours, it should be safe to use.
4. Antihistamines
Sometimes the culprit behind your nasal congestion is allergies and therefore antihistamines or allergy treating drugs can come to your rescue. Antihistamine is an ingredient in a lot of cold medicines which relieves sniffling and sneezing along with a decongestant for congestion and sinus pressure.
5. Saline Nasal Sprays.
Cleansing the nasal passage to flush out excess mucus and also day to day pollution helps in relieving nasal congestion. OTC Nasal Decongestant offers instant relief but over use of it is harmful in the long run. Saline Nasal sprays are hence safe to use for nasal cleansing as it contains to medications that can cause side effects.
See the Bibo Saline Spray that contains the added benefit of eucalyptus and mint essential oil.
Additional note : The above mentioned points are effective for mild nasal congestion. One should always seek a doctor if the congestion persists longer.
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