Nasal congestion is due to many reasons but most often, it is the result of a cold, flu or allergy. Here are some tips to get rid of a congested nose.

What happens when you are congested?

During nasal congestion, mucus accumulates in the inflamed or irritated nasal cavities and eventually blocks the airways. This may be accompanied by excessive secretions, such as a runny nose or nasal discharge that flows into the back of the throat. Nasal congestion can also cause painful pressure in the sinuses and behind the eyes. The color of the mucus is a good clue to determine the cause. Colorless secretions accompanied by irritated and watery eyes is a sign of allergy. A simple over-the-counter antihistamine will relieve these symptoms. Yellowish or green secretions probably indicate the presence of a bacterial or viral infection. Pink or red secretions are usually the result of blood in the mucus, which can occur after blowing your nose too hard.

There are various remedies to relieve nasal congestion and get rid of the accumulation of mucus. Feel free to combine these suggestions.

1. Well blow your nose

By gently blowing a stuffy nose or a runny nose in a tissue you can expel nasal secretions or accumulated mucus. In infants, use a pear or a nasal aspirator.

2. Using a humidifier

Use a humidifier or a vaporizer. The idea is to breathe the vapor of a bowl of water brought to a boil. Place the bowl on a counter or table and place your face directly over the bowl. Then place a towel over your head to trap the steam and breathe normally. Add a few drops of tea tree oil or eucalyptus for a more relaxing effect.

3. Nasal rinsing

Nasal sprays help calm the blood vessels of the nasal passages and reduce secretions.Try a rinse using a net pot. The net pot is a small pot made of ceramic or plastic that is used for nasal irrigation. By rinsing the sinus cavity with saline, you can dilute the mucus, reduce congestion and reduce the pressure due to a sinus infection. Create the saline solution by adding one teaspoon of salt to each liter of sterile warm water.

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4. The compresses

Applying a warm compress on the face can offer short-term relief.

5. Keep your head high

Use extra pillows to raise your head at bedtime.

6. Well hydrate

Proper hydration is essential for general health. You should drink at least eight glasses of water a day. Hot teas and broths can help moisten the airways and temporarily relieve congestion.

7. Healthy Eating

Milk, meat and soy products stimulate the production of mucus. Avoid consuming dairy products when you fight a cold or allergies. Spicy foods, cayenne pepper, and ginger have proven effective in diluting the mucus in a congested nose. A well-balanced diet containing many vitamin C-rich foods reduces mucus production.

Once cleared of your cold or flu, the symptoms will eventually disappear. If the above solutions do not rid you of your nasal congestion, consult your doctor, as this could indicate a more serious problem.