How to Relieve a Stuffy Nose: Home Remedy and Medical

Nasal congestion can be caused by a number of things, such as a cold, flu, allergens or irritants, and it can cause a great deal of discomfort. When the tissues and blood vessels in your nose become swollen due to extra fluid, your nose will feel dry, stuffy and you may have difficulty breathing through your nostrils.

Home Remedy for Relieving a Stuffy Nose

If you want to get rid of a stuffy nose without using medicine, there are a few things you can do in the comfort of your own home.

First, to relieve the dry feeling of a stuffy nose, try using an air humidifier or vaporizer while you sleep to add moisture into the air you are breathing. You can also try taking a very hot shower so the steam can moisten your nostrils and even break up any congestion.

Another way to do this is by filling a pot with water and letting it boil for a few minutes before adding a couple of teaspoons of Vicks VapoRub. Immediately put a cover on the pot and remove from the burner. After a few minutes, put a towel on top of your head, open the lid and slowly lean over it so you can inhale the steam through your nose. Be careful not to put your face too close to the steam so you don’t burn yourself.

For even more relief, try rubbing Vicks VapoRub on your back, chest and on top of your nose to open up your respiratory tract.

You should also increase the amount of fluids that you are consuming by drinking more water, juices, tea and soup broth. Keeping a steady flow of liquids can help bring moisture into your nostrils.

A final remedy for stuffy nose is to gently massage the top of your nose with your thumb and index finger. Slowly rub up and down the bridge until you can breathe easier through your nose.

Medicine to Get Rid of a Stuffy Nose

The best way how to relieve a stuffy nose is by adding moisture into your nostrils. If steam isn’t enough, try spraying saline or medicated nose spray.

While saline will temporarily clear your nostrils, medicated nose spray can keep it clear for longer. There are both prescription and over the counter nose sprays that you can use a couple of times a day to add lubrication while giving a dose of allergy medicine to reduce mucous production.

Just be careful if you choose this option because overuse of nose sprays can actually dry out your nose.

You could also take an over the counter decongestant, such as Sudafed or Nyquil, that will reduce swelling in your nose thus clearing up your congestion. If you follow the dosage instructions, you can keep the congestion away around the clock. However, if you find that you need a decongestant for longer than a few days, consult your doctor because you may need additional treatment. As with all medications, check with your doctor or pharmacist before using if you are taking any other medications.