Nasal congestion is usually a symptom of colds, allergies and flu. It can be very annoying since it disrupts proper breathing and causes headaches. In worst cases it can also cause partial loss of hearing, pain in the eyes and voice alternation.
What are the causes of nasal congestion?
1) Allergic reactions:
Allergic reactions usually appear as a result of seasonal changes and can cause nasal congestion. In this case, the nasal congestion can last more than a month or even a year.
2) Non-allergic rhinitis:
The symptoms of non-allergic rhinitis are the following: nasal congestion, water in the nose, itching, and sneezing.
3) Colds and flu:
Nasal congestion appears whenever we suffer from colds or the flu. The cause is a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract.
The consequence is the dilation of the blood vessels is the inflammation of the nasal membranes.
4) Acute and chronic sinusitis:
Bacterial infection of the paranasal sinuses is a factor that generates nasal congestion during the night. In general, acute sinusitis is followed by a cold.
Among other symptoms, we can mention loss of mucosa, headaches, the sensation of pressure in the nose etc.
5) Side effects of medications:
Some medications can increase blood circulation and thus increase blood flow in the blood vessels. This causes a greater secretion of mucus, inflammation of the mucosa in the nose and nasal obstruction. This is mainly in adults.
6) Psychosomatic reasons:
According to psychologists, nasal congestion and the cold may indicate a need to cry.
Fortunately, there are some home remedies to help you deal with the annying nasal congestion.
1) Saline solution:
You can find these in pharmacies and they can be a very effective treatment for breathing problems and nasal congestion. Saline solutions are applied directly to the nasal passages and they cause instant improvement.
You can also prepare a saline solution in your own home by using baking soda and non-iodized salt. This is an easy and cheap way to prepare a home remedy. You will need the following ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1 teaspoon of non-iodized sea salt
- 250 ml of distilled water
- 1 teaspoon of honey (optional)
In a bowl heat the water and add the ingredients. Mix well until you get a smooth mixture. Let it cool and then store the mixture in a container with an applicator (dropper). Apply 2 or 3 drops in each nostril. Keep the mixture in a fridge.This preparation should not be stored for more than 24 hours.
2) Bath and hot shower:
Taking a hot bath is an excellent way of clearing your nose of nasal congestion. The hot water vapor enters the lungs allowing better breathing and unblocks the nasal passages. If you want to enhance the effects of the hot bath, add essential oils.
3) Eucalyptus leaves:
This plant contains important expectorant properties and helps in opening the nasal passages. It relieves the symptoms of colds and flu. Just boil eucalyptus leaves in water, remove from heat and inhale the vapor.
4) Leaves of mint and lavender:
Similar like eucalyptus, mint is another effective remedy for relieving nasal congestion. Add several drops of mint and lavender essential oils into a boiling water. Let it boil for 5 to 10 minutes and then make inhalation treatment: cover your head with towel and inhale the hot steam.
5) Hot drinks:
Consuming hot beverages like teas, infusions and broths can help in relieving nasal congestion. Also, avoid caffeine because it can worsen the situation.
6) Spicy condiments:
Spicy foods make the mucus more liquid and relieve congestion. The effect is temporary, but it has great effects. Try some of the following foods: radishes, chili peppers, onion, garlic, fennel, wasabi.
7) Vick VapoRub:
This type of menthol cream or any other type offer temporary effects and decongest the nose. You will be able to breathe easily for 1 to 2 hours. Just rub a little of the cream above the lips , under the nose.
8) Massage in the sinuses:
This old method of massaging is very useful: simply massage the area of the paranasal sinuses using your fingers:
– Locate the two index fingers on each side of your face under the eyes, (under the eyelashes). Start massaging the paranasal sinuses by circling outside for 20 or 30 seconds.
9) Physical activity:
Physical activity is the last thing you are thinking about when you are ill, but believe it or not it is good for energizing your body.
You can easily get rid of nasal congestion by performing 20 lizards by breathing only through the nose.
Your brain registers that it will need more air and this will stop nasal inflammation and reduce the production of mucus.
Stress can affect your immune system and detect that the more stressed you are, the more it will cost you to relieve nasal congestion.
Source : homeremediesgarden.com