How to Stop Your Nose From Stuffing Up

A stuffy nose is one of the most irritating symptoms of colds, allergies and the flu. It throws off your senses of taste and smell and can make your throat feel dry and scratchy from having to breathe through your mouth. A stuffy nose can also lead to sinus pressure and sinus headaches. Getting rid of a stuffy nose can be accomplished by following a few helpful tips.

Things You'll Need

• Allergy medication
• Humidifier
• Shower
• Warm liquids
• Saline nasal spray
• Decongestant (optional)

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Instructions

• 1

  Avoid allergy triggers if your stuffy nose is allergy-related. If you're not sure what you are allergic to, you may need to see an allergy specialist for testing. Some individuals with allergies get help by taking regular medication.

• 2

  Use a cool mist humidifier in your home, especially in your bedroom while you sleep. Lying on your back at night can worsen the stuffiness, and a humidifier can help not only your nose but also your throat.

• 3

  Take a hot, steamy shower, or just sit in the bathroom while a hot shower is running. The warm steam can help to loosen your sinuses.

• 4

  Drink warm liquids such as warm tea or sip warm broths.

• 5

  Try an over-the-counter saline nasal spray. You can also make your own by mixing one slightly warm cup of water, one-half teaspoon of salt and a pinch of baking soda. Use a nasal bulb syringe to squirt the mixture into your nose.

• 6

  Try a non-prescription decongestant, but only use it for several days at the most. Extended use can irritate the mucus membranes in your nose and throat.

• 7

  Treat the underlying cause. If your stuffy nose is the result of a cold or the flu, try to get plenty of rest in to allow your immune system to fight the virus effectively. Also remember to drink a lot of clear fluids so that you stay hydrated.