Nasal congestion invariably leads to chronic headaches, runny noses, and breathing difficulty. Sinuses get congested when mucus builds up, and this is usually caused because of inflammation inside the nostrils, which may be a direct or indirect effect of allergies, flu, sinusitis, or environmental irritants.
While most people would think consulting a doctor is important to cure this condition, there are also several effective home remedies for nasal congestion. Here are some of the most widely known home remedies for the condition:
1. Hydration
Staying hydrated is important because fluids, in general, can help alleviate the discomfort associated with a stuffy nose. Hydration helps to thin the mucus that has accumulated inside the nostrils by reducing pressure in the sinuses.
2. Warm compress
A warm compress is, by far, one of the most effective traditional home remedies for nasal congestion. You just need to dip a towel in warm water and squeeze out the extra water. Then, hold it over your nose and forehead, and repeat the process for the warmth of the towel to take effect and relieve inflammation.
3. Inhale steam
Inhaling steam is possibly the most effective treatment for nasal congestion and other respiratory conditions like sinus and influenza. You can also put antiseptic herbs like peppermint or thyme in the water or inhale steam with carom seeds in water.
4. Essential oils
Inhaling the aroma of essential oils can also cure nasal blockage. It is especially helpful if you add eucalyptus oil to warm water and inhale the steam. Alternatively, you can use peppermint oil, which is also very useful for unclogging the nasal passage.
5. Saline solution
A saline solution works well to clear the nose. For this, you have to mix table salt with warm water and then put the solution into your nostrils using a dropper. It can help thin the mucus, making it easier for you to breathe.
6. Hot soup
Drinking hot soups can be a perfect remedy for a clogged nose. If you can have a cup of hot soup with vegetables or chicken, you will feel better almost right away.
7. Spicy foods
For those who love spicy food, it may be a good idea to binge on snacks that contain peppers. Ginger also has anti-inflammatory properties that help relieve nasal congestion, so you can have ginger tea or boil ginger in water to make a compress.
If you find that these home remedies do not provide relief from the symptoms, you should undertake other treatment methods and consult a doctor. Some people benefit from nasal sprays containing a decongestant as it works well to relieve the congested sinus, but, according to the Harvard Medical School, decongestants are not desirable as they can lead to many other health problems. Also, congestion may worsen once you discontinue using them. Sometimes, painkillers are taken to relieve the pain from nasal congestion, but you must consult a doctor in case of side effects.
