How to Prevent a Stuffy Nose

When tissue linings inside the nose become swollen or inflamed, congestion can occur. Blood vessels may become inflamed or swollen by particles in the air, allergic reactions to medications, being in a position that allows excess blood to enter the head, illness associated with the common cold or sinus infections. Congested nostrils are not life-threatening but can be a major inconvenience. Nasal congestion symptoms include mucus drainage all day long, not being able to breathe and frequent sneezing. Symptom duration can last five to seven days. Natural decongestant remedies and procedures can help you prevent nasal stuffiness.

Things You'll Need

• Water
• Humidifier
• Vinegar
• Onion
• Shower

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Instructions

Preventing the Mucus Attack

• 1

  Drink plenty of water. Consume the recommended 64 ounces a day. While hydration is key to fighting off any infection, it also thins post-nasal mucus, eliminating clusters of mucus in lungs and nasal passages.

• 2

  Running a humidifier moisturizes dry air, which is harsh on the lungs and nasal passages. According to Dr. Alvin Katz, a New York otolaryngologist, distilled water should be used. Sanitize the unit every seven days using a combination of half water and half white distilled vinegar. Allow the vinegar and water mixture to process through the humidifier for 15 minutes. After a 15-minute interval has passed, empty the vinegar and water mixture from humidifier and refill the system with distilled water. A humidifier can be run for only one week before sanitation is required again.

• 3

  Peel a whole onion, and sniff away for two to three minutes. The odor of onion causes nasal irritation and unclogs mucus in nasal passages. Nasal-congestion medications containing menthol have the same effect.

• 4

  Relax by taking a nice hot shower for 15 to 20 minutes. Close the bathroom door to trap the steam. Breathing in steam can unclog mucus from the nostrils and lungs and cause your nose to run. This is good.