|  | Conditions Treatments | Allergies

Chronic Stuffy Nose Cure

A chronic stuffy nose could be an indication that you are allergic to something in your environment, and you should promptly clean your home to determine the cause of your dilemma. If you have a pet, thoroughly sweep and mop the floors or vacuum to remove pet dander from the environment. If you have central air, you may need to replace the filter as it becomes less effective at cleaning the air over time. Finally, you should speak with your physician about using a saline nasal spray to manage your stuffy nose.

  1. Thoroughly Clean Your Environment

    • Pet dander, dust and other allergens can build up over time in your home. While they go unnoticed initially, your body will react to the allergens by causing inflammation in your nose's tissue lining. This inflammation in the nose causes the stuffy feeling, and blocks your ability to breathe through your nose. Use a mild detergent to clean your floors, and vacuum all carpeted areas thoroughly. Replace all filters on air conditioners and central air units.

    Humidifier

    • Your stuffy nose could be caused by dry air in your home. To relieve your symptoms purchase a steam humidifier or cool mist humidifier to provide continuous moisture, especially during the drier seasons. Cool mist humidifiers are safer to use than warm mist or steam humidifiers, as there is the possibility of burning yourself using warm humidifiers.

    Saline nasal sprays

    • Chronic congestion requires prescription or over-the-counter medication to effectively treat it. Some of the prescription nasal sprays include Nasonex and Rhinocort, and nonprescription medications include Flonase and Dristan. Symptoms usually improve within 12 hours after initial use, and maximum relief is achieved within two weeks. It is important to use your prescription nasal spray exactly as your doctor has specified, as some sprays contain habit-forming ingredients.

Allergies - Related Articles