Over 50? Keeping Up With Your Healthcare Needs

Using Natural Methods To Relieve Sinus Congestion

9 April 2016

Nellie Ryan

If you are suffering from a stuffy nose, you will most likely want to get relief as soon as possible. Leaving a mucus buildup in the nasal passages can lead to headaches, difficulty sleeping, and eventually a sinus infection. If you do not like taking over-the-counter or prescription medication to relieve ailments, you have some alternatives in getting relief right from the comfort of your own home. Here are some natural methods you can try to reduce or eliminate sinus congestion effectively.

Change Your Dietary Intake

When you have a stuffy nose, the foods and liquids you consume can make a big difference in the intensity of the condition. This is why you are told to increase your fluid intake at this time; it will naturally thin out the mucus secretions in your nasal passages. To further help the thinning of this matter, opt for foods known to be beneficial in this task. Eat foods with high omega 3 fatty acid levels like cold water fish, flax seed, nuts, or eggs. You could also take a fish oil supplement if desired. Pineapple, garlic, and foods high in vitamin C also contribute to the relief of sinus congestion. Avoid dairy, sugar, and starchy foods when you are suffering from nasal stuffiness.

Try A Homemade Vapor Rub

If you have difficulty sleeping due to a stuffy nose, try adding a vapor rub to your chest to help you breathe a bit easier. Place half a cup of coconut oil inside a bowl and add 10-15 drops of an essential oil known to help with congestion. These include eucalyptus, lavender, peppermint, or rosemary. Mix well and let sit for up to a day to allow the scented drops to infuse into the coconut oil. Apply directly to the chest or underneath the nose area.

Use Steam To Flush Out Mucus

Many find that steam helps break up the mucus in the nose, allowing for clearer passageways. If you feel congested, turn on your shower and allow very hot water to run for several minutes. Make sure the door is shut so the steam will accumulate within the room. You can lower the temperature and get into the shower or just enjoy the benefits by sitting in the room full of steam for several minutes.

If you would like to try a more intense steam treatment, heat water on one of your stove burners and place it in a bowl when it starts to boil. Place a towel over your head, forming a tented drape to help keep the steam contained underneath, near your nose. Breath in the steam for several minutes. If desired, add a few drops of one of the essential oils listed in the vapor rub treatment to quicken the process.

If your sinuses do not clear within a few days, contact a specialist like those at Rochester Otolaryngology Group PC.

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