What Are the Treatments for Cold & Heavy Congestion?

The common cold is a viral infection that often causes nasal congestion, sore throat and a runny nose. The heavy nasal congestion that accompanies a cold can be relieved with over the counter treatments and home remedies.

Decongestant Sprays

• According to the Mayo Clinic, decongestant nasal sprays that are sold over the counter may be used by adults for temporary relief of congestion but they should not be used longer than a few days. Extended use of these sprays can cause inflammation of the mucous membranes.

Chicken Soup

• Chicken soup can speed up the movement of mucous through a patient’s nose and provide temporary relief of congestion.

Indoor Humidity

• Congestion from a cold may be reduced by increasing indoor humidity with a humidifier or vaporizer.

Saline Nasal Drops

• Saline nasal drops are available over the counter and can be used by adults and children to reduce nasal congestion.

Alternative Medicine

• Vitamin C, echinacea or zinc may reduce the duration of congestion and other cold symptoms if they are taken as soon as cold symptoms become noticeable.