What is a Stuffy Nose?

Nasal congestion, commonly known as a "stuffy nose," refers to the obstruction of airflow in and out of the nose. The term "runny nose" typically refers to a discharge from the nasal passages. Nasal congestion usually results from inflammation and swelling of the tissues lining the nasal passages and sinuses. Less commonly, anatomical obstructions (e.g., deviated nasal septum, foreign bodies) can lead to nasal congestion.

The extended use of some nasal decongestant sprays or drops might worsen nasal congestion. In rare cases, tumors of the nasal passages or chronic medical conditions can cause nasal congestion.

How to Get Rid Of a Stuffy Nose

Here are some of the best home remedies for stuffy nose are:

Breathing in the moist air soothes irritated tissues, reduces swelling in nasal blood vessels, and thins mucus, helping to clear your sinuses and normalise breathing.

Place a humidifier in your room to ease inflammation and congestion.

Take a Shower : Steam from a hot shower thins mucus and reduces nasal inflammation, helping your breathing return to normal. You can also achieve this by inhaling steam from hot water in a sink.

Place a towel over your head, hold your head over the sink, and take deep breaths. Be careful not to burn yourself.

Use a Saline Spray: Boost hydration with a saline nasal spray to increase moisture in the nostrils, thin mucus, reduce inflammation, and clear nasal passages. Many OTC saline sprays are available.

Drain Your Sinuses: A neti pot flushes mucus from nasal passages. To use, stand over a sink, place the spout in one nostril, and tilt the pot to let water flow through, exiting the other nostril into the sink.

Use a Warm Compress: A warm compress can help unclog a stuffy nose by soothing inflammation. Soak a towel in warm water, wring it out, and place it over your nose and forehead. Repeat as needed for comfort and relief.

Try Decongestants: Decongestant medications reduce swelling and ease pain in irritated nasal passages. Available over-the-counter, they include nasal sprays like oxymetazoline (Afrin) and phenylephrine (Sinex), and pills like pseudoephedrine (Sudafed). Some may be kept behind the pharmacy counter.

Chicken Soup: Everything you heard about chicken soup is true: It really does help you feel better when you’re sick. Sipping a hot bowl helps move mucus through the nose faster than plain hot water. It will help you feel less stuffy and it tastes good.

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