Remedies to Clear a Stuffy Nose

Nasal congestion is typically referred to as a stuffy nose. Congestion occurs when the nose's lining becomes swollen from inflamed blood vessels. It has many causes that range from mild to more serious conditions. There are a number of over-the-counter medications and home remedies to consider to clear up this condition.

Over the Counter

• Over-the-counter medications can provide temporary relief from stuffy noses. Decongestants relieve stuffiness by shrinking blood vessel in the nose's lining. Restrict the use of decongestants to no more than three days. Use of this medication for long periods of time can worsen congestion. Antihistamines work by reducing the amount of mucus build-up. They effectively relieve nasal congestion, but may cause drowsiness.

Home Remedies

• There are solutions other than medications to relieve nasal congestion. They can help thin mucus which relieves stuffiness

  Steam from hot showers reduces the amount of mucus. Run your shower allowing the bathroom to steam, and then sit in the bathroom deeply inhaling.

  Humidifiers help put moisture in the air. They can be especially effective at night if nasal congestion is making it difficult to sleep.

  The steam from drinking hot liquids helps relieve stuffiness. Drinking the fluid itself effectively thins mucus and makes breathing easier

  Consuming spicy foods makes your nose run. A runny nose is a sign of decongestion.

  Nasal saline can be used daily to relieve stuffy noses. This remedy can be made at home by dissolving one-quarter tsp of table salt, and one-half tsp of baking soda in eight oz of water. Use a small atomizer or nose dropper for application in nostrils.

  Sleep with your head elevated if suffering from nasal congestion. Lying flat on your back promotes nasal fluid build-up and aggravates symptoms.

  Walking helps improve blood circulation. This helps shrink nasal membranes and encourages better breathing.

  Natural apple cider vinegar can also aid clearer breathing. Boil equal parts of vinegar and water, lean head over pot and deeply inhale the fumes. Nasal passages should begin to clear and the inflammation of the nose's lining should be reduced.

  Mix four drops of lavender oil, three drops peppermint, seven drops eucalyptus and four drops pine oil. Place a few drops of the mixture on a cotton ball and inhale vapors for stuffy nose relief.