Nasal congestion is the result of swelling in the tissue that lines the nasal passages. Often this happens when blood vessels become inflamed in response to a virus or allergen. For most people, this is primarily an annoyance. In infants, this can cause problems nursing, since they must breathe through their noses. In people of all ages, congestion can interfere with sleep, the ears, hearing and speech development.
Saline Wash
Saline water will help thin mucous and clear the sinuses of congestion. Saline washes can be bought prepared as nose drops, which are an easy method of delivery for infants and babies. Staff members at the Mayo Clinic suggest preparing saline washes to alleviate sinus congestion at home by adding 1/4 tsp. of salt per 1/2 cup of lukewarm water. This mixture can be applied to the nasal passages using bulb syringe or Neti pot, a ceramic vessel with a long spout that fits the nostril.
Humidifier
Dr. Neil Kaneshiro, clinical assistant professor at the University of Washington medical school, suggests humidity in the air to soothe nasal passages irritated by dry air, which is usually worst in the winter. Humidifiers can be purchased at most pharmacies and add moisture to the air by heating water.
Essential oils such as eucalyptus, thyme, and rosemary are sometimes added to the water being vaporized to enhance efficacy. Researchers at the University of Southampton found and reported in the "Journal of Applied Microbiology" in 2005 that essential oils when vaporized do effectively reduce the concentration of bacteria on surfaces.
Avoid Allergens
If the nasal irritation is due to environmental allergens, such as pollen or dust, minimizing exposure is essential to resolving the inflammation. Wash hair and keep pillowcases and sheets clean after being outside on days when pollen is in bloom. The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology Indoor Allergen Committee determined in 2010, based on a review of all available literature, that it is beneficial to people living with congestion and asthma to minimize indoor allergens such as dust and animal dander in the home by vacuuming regularly with a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter on the vacuum cleaner and using HEPA air filters to filter ambient room air as well.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a system of Chinese medicine in which fine needles are placed along energetic pathways of the body, called meridians, with the goal of opening energetic blockages and restoring normal function to the body. It has been shown in several trials, which were reviewed by Chinese researchers in the journal "Zhongguo Zhen Jiu" in 2009, to be safe and effective in improving the symptom of allergic nasal congestion.
Stay Hydrated
Medline Plus Medical Encyclopedia published on-line by the National Institutes of Health reminds us that drinking enough water to stay hydrated helps the body thin secretions and supports healthy immune function. Chicken broth and other healthy soups in clear broths support the body's ability to fight viruses that may be causing nasal congestion.
References
- National Institutes of Health Medline Plus: Nasal Congestion.
- "Zhongguo Zhen Jiu"; Systematic Evaluation of the Randomized, Controlled Trials about Acupuncture and Moxibustion Treatment of Allergic Rhinitis; Xiao L, et al; Jun 2009
- "Journal of Applied Microbiology"; Interaction of Air Ions and Bactericidal Vapours to Control Micro-organisms; Gaunt LF, et al; 2005
- "Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology"; Air filters and air cleaners: Rostrum by the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Indoor Allergen Committee; Sublett JL et. al; Jan 2010
