How do I Get Rid of a Red Stuffy Nose?

According to WebMD, there may be several causes of a stuffy nose, including allergies, sinus issues, a cold and the flu. People with stuffy noses may try to relieve the pain and irritation by blowing or wiping their nose, which can cause redness and pain on the inside and outside of the nose. There are several ways to ease nasal congestion and the red nose that often accompanies it.

Things You'll Need

• Fluids
• Soft towel
• Hot water
• Extra pillow
• Over-the-counter decongestant
• Petroleum jelly
• Lotion
• Exfoliating skin cleaner
• Washcloth

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Instructions

• 1

  Drink plenty of fluids. According to the Mayo Clinic, an adult should drink at least 64 oz. of fluids each day. These fluids help thin out the mucus, which will cause it to flow out of the nasal cavities more effectively.

• 2

  Take a long, hot shower. Stand in the shower and breathe in the steam created by the hot water. This steam will help break up mucus as well.

• 3

  Soak a soft towel in hot water and place the towel onto your face. The heat from the towel will help relieve the pain associated with nasal congestion and open up the nasal cavities, which will make it easier to breathe.

• 4

  Elevate your head at night. Sit up in a chair when you sleep or place an extra pillow under your head. Keeping your head more erect will allow mucus in the sinuses to flow more easily and will make for a more comfortable night's sleep, according to WebMD.

• 5

  Take an over-the-counter decongestant. These medications will help relieve the swelling in the nasal cavities, which will help relieve a stuffy nose. Take these medications, such as Sudafed and Contac, according to the package directions.

• 6

  Flush out the nasal passages with a saline nasal spray. The spray is non-medicated and will help prevent any drying of the nasal passages, which could make the stuffy nose even worse.

• 7

  Rub the outside of the nose with petroleum jelly or lotion. Both of these products will help soothe the pain and discomfort caused by a dry, irritated nose.

• 8

  Rub the red, affected area gently with an exfoliating facial cleaner. This will help remove any dry, flaky skin on the nose that is causing pain and discomfort. Wipe away the exfoliant with a warm washcloth.