If you're unable to breathe through your nose, have a stubborn headache and feel pressure in your sinuses, you may be suffering from nasal congestion. A stuffed up nose occurs when mucus builds up in the nasal passages, causing pressure and discomfort in the nose and head. See a doctor to determine that your nasal congestion isn't being caused by a more serious illness. If it's due to a common cold or flu, with the approval of your doctor you can use a home remedy to help reduce nasal congestion.
Step 1
Dissolve 1/4 tsp. of table salt and 1/4 tsp. of baking soda in 8 oz. of water, recommends Gailen D. Marshall, Jr., M.D., Ph.D., assistant professor and director of the Allergy and Clinical Immunology Division at the University of Texas Medical School.
Step 2
Pour the solution into a small atomizer or clean, empty nasal spray bottle and shake thoroughly.
Step 3
Spray the saline solution into one nostril at a time. Do not use the saline spray on infants. Instead, use an eyedropper to carefully place a few drops of saline solution into the infant's nose, recommends the Mayo Clinic. Suction the nostril treated with a bulb syringe.
Step 4
Blow your nose with a tissue to remove the excess saline solution and mucus from the nasal passages.
Step 5
Repeat as necessary throughout the day to moisten the nasal passages and remove excess mucus.
Tips and Warnings
- Store-bought saline nasal sprays are available over the counter at drugstores.
- Do not use medicated nasal sprays, which can dry out the nose and make congestion worse, says the Mayo Clinic.
Things You'll Need
- 1/4 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. baking soda
- 8 oz. water
- Atomizer or nasal spray bottle
- Eyedropper
- Tissue
- Bulb syringe
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