How to Deal With Nasal Congestion

Nasal congestion can be the worst. The inability to breathe, the loss of taste and smell, and keeping your sanity can be a real test! Alpine ENT has a few inside tips to share on how to deal with nasal congestions before they turn into sinus infections and disrupt your daily routine. See the difference an ENT specialist can make!

Nasal Wash

If you’re a sufferer of chronic sinus infections and you’re seeking relief from a throbbing skull, a neti pot could be your next best friend. You can use a neti pot or nasal irrigation kit to soften, loosen and flush mucus from your nasal cavities, providing almost instant comfort. 

They can be purchased at your local drug store and look a lot like a little teapot. Make sure to pick up a saline solution to use with the pot.  If you forget, you can just whip up some solution at home using one cup of warm, distilled water, half a teaspoon of salt, and a pinch of baking soda. Flush 1 to 2 times daily and smile as you regain the ability to breathe again!

Steam

You can take a long hot bath, or you can hang your head over a heated cup of water; whichever way you choose, steam can be a significant ally in the fight against mucus build-up! Steam helps thin the mucus in your nasal cavities, making it easier to drain from your nose. 

You can also try filling a large bowl with boiling water, covering your head with a thicker towel, and leaning over the bowl to breathe in the steam. Doing this multiple times a day can help provide soothing relief.

Peppermint

Did you know that peppermint has a secret ingredient that is crucial in the fight against nasal congestion? Menthol is an all-natural decongestant and can provide the help you need to breathe correctly again. After all, peppermint is almost always found in most menthol rubs for your chest. Hold off on ordering that peppermint latte to help cure your congestion though. Instead, opt for peppermint tea. Having a few of these teas throughout the day can help with nasal congestion.

Decongestants

Part of the nasal congestion you’re battling is due to the blood vessels in the nose swelling up, blocking your airways. Over-the-counter decongestants can help these blood vessels shrink, which in turn reduces the swelling. Stop by your local pharmacy and talk with your pharmacist today to explore the available options. That way, you can purchase a decongestant that performs for you, and you can feel safe about your purchase.

While these are all great ways to relieve your nasal congestion, we recommend that if your congestion lasts longer than two weeks to make an appointment to see one of our specialists at Alpine ENT today. Contact us today for further info!