When there is inflammation in the blood vessels in inner membranes of the nose, it results into stuffy nose or congestion in nose. It generally happens due to cold, flu or allergies. There is development of excess mucous in nose which makes it difficult to breathe. It is quite uncomfortable for some kids and adults, while it is very dangerous for newborns as their nostrils are very tiny and can be life-threatening. This problem can be treated with some cautions during the course of time.
The issue of stuffy nose can be tackled when the infection causing this issue has subsided completely. The doctors have explained four major culprits for nasal congestion like allergies, infection, structural abnormalities and vasomotor rhinitis. Some quick and easy home remedies for stuffy nose are discussed in this article.
Natural Remedies for Stuffy Nose
Some tried and tested remedies may include the following:
- Steam inhalation: This is one of the best and simple home remedy for stuffy nose. Small kids can be simply given steam with a steamer for a few minutes twice or thrice a day. For adults, you can mix some anise seeds or peppermint oil in boiling water and take steam for a few minutes for twice or thrice a day. This remedy will give much relief from pain and stuffed nose.
- Garlic: Garlic is a very important cure for stuffy nose. You can take it as raw with some honey or you can have its soup. Take 2-3 cloves of garlic, crush them and add to boiling water. This soup will provide relief from stuffy nose as well as from other related symptoms of clogged nose.
- Basil: You can simply chew some leaves of basil before breakfast or consume its tea to get relief from this ailment.
- Ginger: Ginger is one of the common home remedy for relief from clogged nose. It can be added to tea or can be had with honey. It can also be taken in sweet form which kids will also like. Take some grated ginger and put in a pan, add some jaggery and cook for 1 to 2 minutes. This should be eaten in warm form. This remedy is quite effective in getting relief from this problem and other related symptoms.
- Saline solution: Saline solution is put into infants nostrils through a dropper to provide them relief from stuffy nose. For adults, take a tablespoon of salt in warm water and mix well. Now, with the help of a dropper or a neti pot, put this solution into the nostrils. This will provide instant relief from nasal congestion as it keeps the nasal passage moist.
- Eucalyptus oil: Put a few drops of eucalyptus oil on a handkerchief and inhale to get relief from congestion in nose.
- Pepper: Pepper should be grounded and it should be mixed with honey to prepare a paste. This paste should be taken thrice a day to cure nasal congestion.
- Warm compress: This remedy will provide instant relief from clogged nose. Place a warm compress over the nose and head. This will cure stuffy nose, especially chronic sinusitis.
The above are a few remedies for stuffy nose. You can also take warm and spicy foods to get relief from nasal congestion and its other symptoms. Plenty of water should be taken while suffering from this ailment.
Causes of Stuffy Nose
Some of the major causes of this problem are:
- Flu
- Hay fever
- Sinusitis
- Allergies
- Certain chemicals
- Environmental irritants
- Deviated septum
- Non-malignant tumors
- Non-malignant growths in the inner lining of nose (nasal polyps)
Symptoms of Stuffy Nose
Some of the symptoms of clogged nose may include:
- Sneezing
- Blocked nose
- Sinus pain
- Breathing difficulty
- Mucous build up in the nasal passage
- Swelling in the nasal tissues, sometimes even in eyes
