Allergies can lead to allergic rhinitis, which causes inflammation and swelling of your sinuses. These swollen sinuses can cause your head to feel congested, leading to sinus headaches and difficulty in smelling, tasting and breathing through your nose. Although there are many medications that can be used to treat head congestion and allergy symptoms, they may not be completely effective. Fortunately, there are a number of other treatment strategies that you can try.
Step 1
Rinse out your nostrils. Sinus congestion can be relieved by rinsing them with saline solution, either by using specially designed nasal rinse squeeze bottles or a neti pot.
Step 2
Drink lots of fluids. Staying hydrated will not only help your body heal itself, but it will also thin out your nasal mucus, which will help relieve head congestion.
Step 3
Humidify the air. You can do this by purchasing a humidifier or vaporizer and placing it in the areas of your house that you use the most. You can also make a warm compress by soaking a washcloth in hot water and placing it on your face.
Step 4
Sleep with your head elevated. Raise your head using an extra pillow or two, which will allow your sinuses to drain, relieving head congestion and allergy symptoms.
Things You'll Need
- Saline solution
- Vaporizer/humidifier
- Washcloth
- Hot water
- Extra pillow(s)
