Chest congestion is a common problem throughout the world, among people of all the age groups. It occurs due to the accumulation of mucus in the lungs, accompanied by the congestion of other respiratory organs such as the pharynx, wind pipe, and throat. Usually, chest congestion is not a matter of worry. However, if the chest congestion symptoms persist for a longer period of time, it may result in serious problems and in some extreme cases, could be fatal as well. Very long persistence of chest congestion could be a symptom of lung cancer. Moreover, in case, no chest congestion treatment is giving any positive results, one must get examined for HIV symptoms. There can be several reasons for chest congestion. The most common chest congestion causes are as listed below:
- Common cold and cough is one of the most common causes of chest congestion;
- Chest congestion in adults is usually due to excessive smoking;
- Chronic asthma;
- Bacterial or viral infection;
- Pneumonia;
- Allergy due to dust and other allergens; and
- Working environment hazards.
Some of the chest congestion symptoms include persistent coughing with green or black phlegm coming out, audible sound while breathing, heaviness in the chest, and mild fever in some cases. Like any other ailment, there are a number of remedies and treatment methods for curing chest congestion. In addition to the usual medical treatment, there are several home remedies and alternative therapies such as aromatherapy and herbal treatment for curing chest congestion. For chest congestion remedies for infants and toddlers, you must consult your pediatrician instead of trying any home remedies. This is because, their respiratory system is much weaker and much smaller, and any difficulty in breathing could be fatal due to lack of oxygen intake.
Chest congestion remedies for adults and kids are more or less similar in nature. The only thing difference is that the dosage quantities will differ according to age. The best medicine for chest congestion can be advised by your health care provider as it is only him/her who is fully aware of your medical history. Apart from medical treatment, there are a number of home remedies for the treatment of chest congestion. The most popular and most effective home remedies are as follows:
- Add one-fourth teaspoon of turmeric powder to one glass of hot milk. Stir it well and drink. Using this remedy twice a day will clear your chest and throat congestion within a few days. This is one of the best chest congestion remedies for children; however, they may not like it because of the taste.
- Add one teaspoon of thyme seeds to one glass of water. Boil it for some time and prepare the tea. Drink this concoction at least thrice a day. This is one of the most effective remedies for chest congestion.
- While making tea, add some crushed ginger to the boiling water. Let the mixture boil for about five minutes. Ginger tea is a very effective and popularly used home remedy for chest congestion.
- Inhaling steam is also considered to be one of the best chest congestion remedies. You can add a few drops of eucalyptus oil in the boiling water for inhaling the steam. It will clear the congestion more rapidly. Steam therapy is considered to be one of the safest chest congestion remedy during pregnancy.
However, keep in mind that before using any of the chest congestion remedies, both natural and at-home, it is best to consult your physician. Also, if you have been using these remedies over a long period with no visible relief, consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
answered by M W