How to Get Rid of a Clogged Nose Fast

A clogged nose can be caused by cold, flu, allergies or a reaction to pollutants such as smoke and dust. According to the Mayo Clinic, a clogged nose, otherwise known as nasal congestion, "occurs when nasal tissues and blood vessels become swollen with excess fluid, causing a 'stuffy' feeling." A clogged nose will usually clear on its own, but if the condition becomes too much of an annoyance, there are simple methods to clear it quickly.

Things You'll Need

• Humidifier
• Neti pot
• 1/8 tsp. non-iodized salt
• 8 oz. distilled water
• Tissue

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Instructions

• 1

  Use a humidifier while you sleep. Heating and air conditioning units can draw moisture out of the air and exacerbate nasal congestion. Replenish lost fluid by using a home humidifier each night.

• 2

  Drink at least eight glasses of water each day. Water will keep your nasal tissues moist and lubricated, which will expedite healing.

• 3

  Inhale steam two to four times each day. Run a hot shower and sit in your bathroom, breathing in the steam, for up to 15 minutes at a time.

• 4

  Irrigate your nasal passages with a neti pot. Saline can be made at home by mixing salt and distilled water. Fill your neti pot with saline then place the spout into your right nostril. Tip your head over a sink to allow the water to travel through your sinuses and out through the left nostril. Repeat on the other side. This flushes and lubricates the sinuses.

• 5

  Blow your nose gently into a tissue to remove excess fluid.