How to Get Rid of Stuffy Nose

Nasal congestion occurs when the tissues that line the nose swell up. Excessive production of mucus is often a contributing factor. Stuffy nose is a very annoying condition that does not allow you to breathe easily. It is commonly observed in people affected by common cold, flu, or sinusitis.

In case of viral and bacterial infections, drug therapy can certainly help in clearing the congestion. However, there's also the option of following tried-and-tested home remedies.

Here are some simple remedies that can be followed to get rid of stuffy nose:

• Add about ¼ teaspoon salt to a cup of water. Put it on the flame for 10 minutes. After it has cooled, put a few drops of this salty water in your nostrils. Lie down on your bed, and put the drops with the help of a dropper.

• Inhalation of steam always works well in case of a stuffy nose. You need to boil water and inhale the steam 2 to 3 times a day. The steam helps in clearing the clogged nasal passages and helps you breathe better.

• Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties. Drinking ginger tea will help reduce the nasal congestion.
• Roast a few cardamom seeds and inhale the smoke.
• Rub a paste of menthol leaves around your nostrils, before you go to bed.

Peel off a few of the outer layers of an onion and sniff. This will help clear your nasal passages, making it easy to breathe.
Include hot vegetable soups to your diet.

• Having spicy foods might also help.
• Never ever blow your nose hard. Hold the tissue close to one nostril, closing the other nostril with the other hand. While blowing your nose, keep your mouth slightly open, so that there is less pressure on the ears.

• Put a few drops of eucalyptus oil in a piece of cloth and inhale the aroma. It will help in loosening the mucus. You can even add a bit of eucalyptus to boiling water and inhale the steam.
• Applying a warm compress on the face will cause the mucus to loosen.

If you are finding it difficult to breathe, consult a doctor. You could also use over-the-counter decongestants or anti-inflammatory drugs to get rid of nasal congestion. However, never use over-the-counter nasal sprays. It has been found that one could become addicted to nasal sprays.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this story is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.