A stuffy nose hinders the ability to breathe through the nostrils, leading to other issues such as sleeplessness, headaches, and sore throat. A blocked nose can be extremely uncomfortable when the congestion lasts long. Here, the lining of the nasal passage becomes inflamed and swollen. Fortunately, quite a few remedies can help relieve a stuffy nose. But, one should determine the causes and triggers of nasal congestion to find the right remedy.
Causes
A stuffy nose could be brought on by the following issues:
Allergies: When the body comes in contact with an allergen like pollen, dander, and dust, it releases a chemical called histamine to fight allergens. However, the release of this chemical can cause inflammation and swelling of the nasal passage leading to a stuffy nose.
Cold and flu: Viral infections like the common cold and seasonal flu are other causes of a stuffy nose. Infections can cause inflammation and irritation in the tissues lining the nasal passage, resulting in congestion or even a runny nose.
Sinusitis: Sinuses are air-filled cavities behind the nasal bones, cheekbones, and forehead. Sinusitis is an inflammation or infection of the sinuses that can lead to inflammation in the nasal passage. This causes excessive mucus production and nasal congestion.
Environmental factors: Exposure to irritants like air pollutants like industrial smoke can cause inflammation in the nasal passage, leading to a stuffy nose.
Best remedies
As a stuffy nose is such a common symptom that many may experience, one should consider trying the following home remedies to relieve the congestion. Home remedies can work as an alternative or supplementary treatment to help the body recover from an infection.
Steam inhalation
Inhaling steam helps loosen the mucus covering the inner lining of the nasal passage. This helps clear a stuffy nose instantly and relieves congestion. One can try this remedy by boiling a pot of water and leaning over it while covering their head with a towel. Alternatively, steam inhalers and humidifiers can be used.
Saline spray
Nasal saline sprays can help relieve nasal congestion by flushing out mucus from the nasal passage. Nasal sprays are available at local pharmacists or online stores. Alternatively, one can make their own saline solution by mixing some salt with water.
Neti pot
Netli pot is a small tool used to flush out mucus and other irritants blocking the nasal passage. First, the pot should be filled with a saline solution. Then, one has to tilt their head to one side and pour the solution through one nostril. The solution should flow out of the other nostril getting rid of mucus and irritants.
Hot shower
A hot shower can be a great way to take in some steam that releases the mucus causing nasal congestion. Taking a hot shower or a hot bath can help one find some temporary relief from congestion as well as headache.
Essential oils
Essential oils like peppermint and eucalyptus are known for providing instant relief from a stuffy nose. One can add a few drops of essential oil of their choice to the diffuser or a bowl of hot water and inhale the steam.
Spicy food
Eating spicy food might help relieve nasal congestion by letting the mucus out. Peppers contain capsaicin, a compound that gives spicy food its heat. It helps reduce the inflammation in the nasal cavity and is functional in providing temporary relief from a stuffy nose.
Getting enough rest and sleeping with the head elevated prevents mucus from pooling in the nasal passageway. Additionally, decongestants can cure a stuffy nose by reducing the swelling in the nasal lining. However, despite providing instant relief from a stuffy nose, these products should not be used for more than a few days as they can cause side effects.
Additional tips
In addition to these common remedies, here are a few tips for recovering from nasal congestion and preventing the symptom from worsening:
Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water can ensure that the nasal passage is hydrated, preventing it from drying up. This can reduce inflammation and congestion.
Avoid allergens: Avoiding contact with allergens is one of the most effective and easiest ways of preventing nasal congestion.
Use a humidifier: Consistently using a humidifier can help keep the nasal passages moist which prevents them from drying up and becoming inflamed. Preventing inflammation of nasal tissues also keeps congestion at bay.
Exercise: Regular physical activity can help improve immune system function, prevent certain conditions, and help one recover quickly from infections like the flu that cause congestion.