General5 Ways to Deal with Nasal Congestion and Pressure

If you have ever experienced nasal congestion, you understand how frustrating it can be. Nasal congestion is usually caused by allergies, infection, cold, or flu. When you have a cold or an allergy, your blood vessels in the sinuses become inflamed and irritated. In response to the irritation, the membranes lining your nasal passages begin to produce more mucus to clear out the irritation resulting in a stuffed-up nose. Regardless of what led to your nasal congestion, there are ways in which you can relieve it. Below are simple ways to deal with nasal congestion and pressure.

Try using a Humidifier

The secret to dealing with a congested nose is to make sure that you are always hydrated, and one of the best ways to do that is to be in a moisturized environment. A humidifier is what you need as it helps to convert water into moisture and increase the humidity in your room. Moist air can help decongest your nasal passages as it relieves the inflamed blood vessels and eases the irritation. Moisture also helps in thinning your mucus, allowing it to flow better.

Drink Plenty of Fluids

As mentioned earlier, hydration is key to clearing a stuffy nose. Drinking plenty of warm liquids can help relieve the symptoms as it helps to thin the mucus allowing it to drain better. When the flow of the mucus increases, it helps to get rid of anything that is leading to irritation. Drinking plenty of liquids also helps in soothing the membrane linings in your nose. Hydration also plays a vital role in lowering the pressure in your sinuses, which decreases inflammation.

Consult with Medical Specialists

Numerous over-the-counter (OTC) drugs available in the market can help you when you are dealing with nasal congestion and pressure. These drugs may include antihistamines, decongestants, menthol, and steroid nasal sprays. However, these drugs all have different purposes, and their usage varies according to the cause of nasal congestion. According to ENT specialist, Dr. Mani H. Zadeh M.D., F.A.C.S., it is important to see your doctor before taking any of these medications to avoid further complications.

Rinse with Saline Solution

A saline solution may be what you need if you are experiencing nasal congestion. A saline lavage or irrigation can help take your hydration to the next level as it helps to restore moisture to dry nasal membranes. Saltwater works as an antiseptic and can help reduce the spread of infection to the other sinuses. A salt-water wash can also help improve the function of cilia, whose function is to help clear the sinuses.

Take a Hot Shower

Taking a hot shower when having nasal congestion can work like magic and you will be surprised by the results. The steam from the shower will help add moisture into the air that plays a vital role in helping to moisten your sinus passages, thin out mucus, and allow it to drain from your nose. The steam can also help to reduce your inflammation and give you faster relief. You can also breathe in the steam to reduce the pressure.

Bottom Line

Having nasal congestion is no walk in the park and is one of the most irritating and frustrating things that you can experience. However, the best part is solutions such as taking prescribed drugs, washing with a saline solution, and constantly hydrating to help relieve the congestion.

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