When you are suffering from a stuffy nose, it can impact your entire day. You may have difficulty speaking, breathing and sleeping through the night. Unfortunately, nasal congestion is one common side effects of allergies and the common cold. So for those who experience seasonal or chronic allergies, a stuffy nose can become a regular part of their daily life. Contrary to popular belief, nasal congestion is not the result of excessive mucous blocking the nasal passage. Instead, the blood vessels in tissue surrounding the nasal area become inflamed, which causes the airways to become restricted. If you’re experiencing nasal congestion, here are some simple ways to get relief:
- Steam. There are many ways to use steam to clear your nasal passages. Taking a hot shower or placing your head above a steaming pot of water are two simple and effective methods. Steam helps to reduce inflammation, allowing your breathing to normalize. When using this method, be sure the water is not hot enough to harm you. Also be aware that this method, though effective, may not provide long-lasting relief.
- Saline spray. A salt-water solution can be dispersed into your nasal passages to help moisturize the area and draw out fluid. This will help to reduce the swelling in your blood vessels and allow you to breath easily. Saline solutions can be bought in stores or made at home using distilled water.
- Hydrate. Keeping your body adequately hydrated will allow you to thin out the mucus in your nasal passages and reduce inflammation. When experiencing a stuffy nose, keep a water bottle, sports drink or tea on hand to keep your fluid intake high.
- Consult an allergy doctor. If you suspect your symptoms may be allergy-related, an allergist can help you find solutions to manage your condition. While over-the-counter medications may provide temporary relief, they should not be used daily. Allergy doctors can perform allergy testing and created a personalized allergy treatment
To find an allergy clinic in Tyler, Texas, or to learn more about allergy testing procedures, contact our team to at [phone1 link=”true”].