Stuffy nose – what to do? Tips and home remedies

Colds, allergies or dry heating air – a stuffy nose can have many causes. It is caused by swelling of the nasal mucous membranes, which produces viscous nasal secretions. As a rule, this is intended to prevent the spread of viruses or other substances recognized as “foreign bodies”. In any case, a blocked nose is very uncomfortable for those affected. You get lousy air, especially at night; sometimes you feel tension in your face and headaches. A stuffy nose can also cause a sinus infection. So the question arises: what to do if the nose is blocked? Our photo gallery gives you home remedies and tips to counteract the symptoms.

nasal spray

Decongestant nasal spray can help a blocked nose to breathe freely again. The active ingredients constrict the blood vessels in the nasal mucosa and thus have a short-term decongestant effect. This effect can be helpful, especially for enjoying a restful sleep when you have a cold, and it promotes nasal secretion drainage.

However, decongestant nasal spray should be used at most three times a day for a period not exceeding one week. Otherwise, the cells can get used to it, which means that the mucous membranes dry out permanently or even a “rebound effect” occurs (so-called nasal spray addiction ): the nose swells more and more without a nasal spray.

Inhale

Inhaling hot steam is one of the classic ways to relieve a stuffy nose. The water is ideally mixed with essential oils, such as eucalyptus tea tree oil or table salt. The hot steam moistens the nasal mucous membranes and promotes blood circulation. This allows stubborn secretions to drain faster.

Eat spicy

Chilli, pepper or some paprika contain the secondary plant substance capsaicin. This creates a sharp stimulus in the body and has a vasodilating effect. This stimulates blood circulation and creates a feeling of warmth. This effect also affects the nasal mucous membranes. In addition, capsaicin is perceived by the body as an irritant that should be transported out of the body. For this reason, the production of nasal secretion is stimulated, and its drainage is accelerated.

Rinse with salt water.

Rinsing with salt water is a popular home remedy for a stuffy nose. A nasal douche is particularly practical to use. Scientific studies have shown that nasal rinsing is particularly beneficial in the case of a constantly blocked nose, such as can occur with chronic sinusitis . The salt concentration in the water should be between 2 and 3.5 per cent so as not to irritate the mucous membranes.

Sliced ​​onion on the bedside table

If you cut onions, the sulfur compound propanil-S-oxide is formed. This not only has a tear-promoting effect but also irritates the mucous membranes and thus stimulates the production of nasal secretions. If the smell doesn’t bother you, cut onions can also be placed on the bedside table as a home remedy for a stuffy nose.

cold bath

Like steam inhalation, the hot steam from a cold bath can moisten the mucous membranes. The often-contained essential oils are antibacterial, and the heat stimulates blood circulation. However, if you have a fever or circulatory problems, you should avoid taking a cold bath, as the hot water puts additional strain on the circulatory system.

Drink a lot

 Drink plenty of fluids, especially if the stuffy nose is a flu or cold symptom. The viscous nasal secretion is liquefied and can drain off better. In addition, the mucous membranes are moistened. Unsweetened teas, water or fruit juice spritzers are particularly healthy. However, if you have a sore throat, you should avoid the latter, as its acids can aggravate the inflammation.

Humidify room air

The air dries out quickly, especially in heated rooms. In addition to professional devices for air humidification, wet towels or small bowls with water (also with a few drops of essential oil) on or above the radiator can contribute to a better room climate. Sufficient humidity helps to prevent dry nasal mucous membranes.

With electric humidifiers, however, you should ensure adequate hygiene. The water should be changed regularly, and the device should be thoroughly cleaned to prevent bacterial growth. Water vaporizers boil the water and are therefore more hygienic, but require a lot of electricity.