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Natural Cures for Sinus Congestion

Sinus congestion is common with a cold, flu, allergies or sinus infection. If dealing with sinus congestion, you're likely experiencing nasal and throat congestion due to mucus buildup. Additionally, a sore throat and coughing often accompany sinus congestion. But fortunately, there are ways to get rid of sinus congestion. Although most people rely on prescription or over-the-counter medications to ease discomfort, there are plenty of ways to control symptoms naturally.

  1. Increase Water Intake

    • Drinking water hydrates the body. Additionally, adequate fluids thin mucus in the throat and nasal passages and naturally cures congestion. Quite the opposite, certain drinks such as alcohol can cause inflammation in the sinus cavity and intensify congestion. Drink at least six glasses of water a day (8 oz.) to control congestion.

    Elevate Your Head

    • Lying flat can worsen sinus congestion and make it difficult to sleep or rest. Rather than lying flat, place two or three pillows underneath your head at night. This method keeps the head elevated, and it promotes sinus drainage. Sinus drainage can alleviate symptoms associated with sinus congestion such as coughing and a stuffy nose.

    Apply a Warm Compress

    • Take a damp cloth and place it in the microwave for 30 to 45 seconds. Next, gently apply the cloth over your face. The heat and steam from the cloth naturally thins mucus and relieves sinus congestion. Apply the warm compress for 10 minutes several times a day to control symptoms.

    Take a Hot Shower

    • Warm, moist air is another effective natural remedy for sinus congestion. Like the warm compress, the heat from a shower, hot tub or sauna promotes mucus drainage and clears the nasal passages. Additionally, moist air from a humidifier can loosen mucus and cure sinus congestion. Place a humidifier in your bedroom or sit in a steamy room.

    Rest

    • Because sinus congestion caused by a cold, flu or sinusitis involves an infection, getting adequate rest is a natural way to cure congestion. Resting improves your immune system, and you're able to fight the infection that triggers the sinus congestion. Increase your intake of orange juice or take vitamin C supplements to boost your immune system.

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