A clogged nose is a very common problem that is seen in people of all ages. In some people a clogged nose is a one time occurrence, caused by conditions like sinusitis, common colds and so on. However, while the cold is probably one of the most common blocked nose causes, it is not the only cause. Another common cause for a clogged nose could be allergies and pollution. When you breathe in air, you are exposing your nasal membranes to allergens and irritants such as air pollution, cigarette smoke, pollen, dust and smog. These air-bourn irritants can lead to mucus in the nose, which in turn leads to a clogged nose or blocked nose. Symptoms that you may see along with a clogged nose are the accumulation of thick mucus in nose, headaches, stuffy head, coughing and perhaps a fever too.
Fortunately, in most cases, a clogged nose is not a major cause of concern and it can be treated quite easily. However, it is strongly recommended that you do consult a doctor, for a blocked nose treatment. In most cases, doctors suggest the use of over the counter medication for the treatment of a clogged nose. Unfortunately, some of the medicines could lead to side effects like drowsiness, lethargy, acidity, and so on. Therefore, at times health care providers may also suggest the use of nasal congestion remedies. It has been seen that most people prefer using blocked nose remedies, since they cause fewer side effects and are just as effective in unclogging a blocked nose, by getting rid of the thick mucus discharge. Given below are some of the most common home remedies for a clogged nose:
- Steaming: This is probably one of the most effective and widely recommended natural remedies used in the treatment of a blocked nose. Steaming can work wonders in unblocking the sinuses as well as the nasal passages almost immediately, which will make it easier for you to breathe. For the steaming remedy, you need to boil some water in a large pot and allow it to cool, for five to seven minutes. Then, bend your head so that your face is directly over the pot of steaming hot water. Place a large towel over your head as well as the pot, so that all the steam is trapped within. You need to inhale the vapors of the steam deeply, so that your nose gets unclogged. Continue this exercise for as long as you can, preferably at least fifteen to twenty minutes. You can take a break of a minute or so in between, if you find it difficult to bear the steam. To enhance the effectiveness of this blocked nose remedy, you could add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to the boiling water.
- Warm Fluids: Drinking a cup of warm water, to which a dash of honey has been added, can help clear up the nasal passages at a faster pace. Other liquids that should be consumed at regular intervals during the day are herbal tea and hot soup.
- Oranges: This fruit is very high in Vitamin C, and can therefore help relieve a stuffy nose. Hence you could either eat the oranges or can drink some fresh orange juice (without sugar or preservatives) diluted in some warm water. There are some people who also take Vitamin C tablets, but before doing so, a doctor needs to be consulted for the appropriate dosage.
- Spices: There are several spices that can help relieve congestion in the throat, chest, head, nose or respiratory passages. Hot spices make the nose run, thereby expelling the thick mucus in nose.
answered by G M