Nasal congestion occurs when the membranes inside the nose become irritated and inflamed. A congested nose can be compounded by the fact that many colds and viruses cause people to produce large amounts of mucous, which can also hamper breathing. Soothing the swollen nasal membranes can help clear a congested nose, and may be achieved through the use of medications and other lifestyle changes.
Step 1
Increase the amount of moisture in the air around you, especially while you sleep, to clear a congested nose. Run a humidifier or vaporizer in your bedroom at night. If you live in a dry climate, you may want to use the apparatus during the day as well.
Step 2
Soothe irritated nasal passages that are causing congestion with a few drops of saline spray. Nonmedicated sprays may be used freely. Sprays that contain decongestants may actually cause more congestion if used for more than a few consecutive days. Both types of spray are available without a prescription at pharmacies, supermarkets and mass merchandisers.
Step 3
Clear a congested nose with cold medications, under the supervision of your doctor. Oral decongestants can temporarily shrink inflamed nasal membranes. Antihistamines help control the amount of nasal discharge that is produced. Both of these factors can help you breathe more easily.
Step 4
Prop yourself up while you sleep instead of lying flat in bed to relieve congestion. Babies and toddlers may benefit from sleeping in a car seat instead of a crib in order to clear congested noses.
Step 5
Increase the amount of liquids you drink while you are experiencing congestion. Water and other clear liquids work to thin out nasal secretions, which can help clear your nose. Try to consume at least 64 oz. of fluids each day while you are feeling congested.
Step 6
Use special nasal congestion strips to help clear congestion that you experience mainly at night. The strips, available in most drug and grocery stores, widen your nostrils, allowing you to breathe easier when the membranes are swollen.
Step 7
Schedule an appointment with your doctor if you have tried self-care measures that do not seem to clear your congested nose. Some people suffer from congestion due to structural abnormalities, including a deviated septum, or chronic illnesses like tonsillitis. Cases such as these may require more involved treatment in order to relieve nasal congestion.
Things You'll Need
- Humidifer
- Saline spray
- Cold medications
- Nasal congestion strips
