When the blood vessels and nasal passageways in the nose become swollen with fluid, the nose becomes congested and often is referred to as stuffy nose. Allergies, pet dander, tobacco smoke, a cold or flu can cause nasal congestion, according to the Mayo Clinic. While a stopped-up nose mainly poses as an inconvenience, it can be dangerous in infants, who should be seen by a doctor if they have difficulty breathing. For older children and adults, there are a number of home remedies that can ease the discomfort.
Neti Pot
A neti pot is a plastic or ceramic container designed with a spout on one end that you pour through your nasal cavity to clear a stopped-up nose. Dr. James Li at the Mayo Clinic advises filling the pot with a warm saltwater solution or an over-the-counter saline nasal wash. Use 1/4 teaspoon of salt for 1/2 cup of warm water. Place the spout in one nostril as you lean over a sink and pour the solution in. It should run through your passageways and come out the other nostril. Neti pots are widely available in pharmacies and natural food retailers.
Humidifier
A humidifier keeps the fluid content in the air balanced--a stuffy nose often is the result of dry air. A humidifier is especially effective to relieve nasal congestion in children under 2 years old who should not be given over-the-counter cold medications, nasal sprays or decongestants, doctors at the American Academy of Family Physicians report. Make sure the humidifier is clean, and change the water regularly to prevent mold and bacteria from forming and creating even more serious complications. Vaporizers also increase the humidity in a room and can be used with soothing vapor medications.
Medication
Older children and adults can use over-the-counter medications to remedy a stopped-up nose. Nasal decongestants relieve congestion by shrinking the blood vessels in the nose. They clear up the stuffiness but do not relieve a runny nose or other cold symptoms. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, using nasal sprays and decongestants for longer than three days can cause additional complications. Antihistamines are another alternative that can clear up clogged sinuses by drying up the mucus causing the stuffiness. Antihistamines should be used with caution, because they can cause drowsiness.
