If you’re one of the millions of people dealing with a stuffed-up nose right now, you know how annoying it can be.
During this time of year, many cases of nasal congestion are caused by colds. While there are no treatments that fight cold viruses directly, several home remedies can help manage your symptoms and get you feeling better.
Use Steam to Decrease Nasal Congestion
Steam is a great help when dealing with nasal congestion. Try taking a hot shower, as the steam created can thin the mucus in your nose as well as reduce inflammation, making it easier to breathe. You could turn on the water in your sink or fill a bowl with warm water and then cover your head with a towel to get the same effect. Just make sure not to burn your face from the water or steam.
Rest and Hydrate
Getting plenty of rest and liquids like water, juice and hot tea is essential to fighting off any kind of cold. Rest lets your body recover and helps fight off the infection. Staying hydrated can thin the mucus in your nasal passages, which helps push the fluids out of your nose and decreases the pressure in your sinuses, meaning less pain and inflammation.
Flush Your Sinuses
You can use a Neti pot or a sinus rinse kit to help flush mucus and fluids out of your nasal passages. Just make sure to follow instructions as well as use distilled water instead of regular tap water to prevent any risk of infection from contaminated water.
Use OTC Medications and Nasal Sprays
If home remedies aren’t helping, you can often find relief in over-the-counter medications that you can find at Hawthorne Pharmacy or many stores throughout South Carolina.
Nasal sprays can help increase moisture in your nostrils and reduce discomfort. Additionally, decongestants can be found in some nasal sprays as well as in liquid or pill form. They can help reduce swelling and further ease pain. However, always speak with your doctor before taking decongestants. While effective, they are not safe for people with certain illnesses, including some heart conditions. It’s also important that you only use these medications short-term, as they may worsen congestion issues with longer use.
Know When To See a Doctor
Many cases of nasal congestion will resolve on their own. However, if you’re dealing with persistent symptoms lasting weeks or even months, consider making an appointment with your medical provider. This could be a sign that your stuffy nose is due to a chronic condition like allergies and requires different treatment.
For more information or to schedule an appointment with one of our experts, call Palmetto ENT & Allergy today.