15 efficient ways to unclog your nose quickly

Nasal congestion is a common symptom that causes significant discomfort. Fortunately, there are various methods to alleviate it.

The sensation of a blocked nose is one of the most frequent reasons for consultation in children and adults. This symptom is associated with infectious and allergic processes. In general, timely treatment can relieve discomfort and promote recovery. Next, we tell you 15 efficient ways to unclog your nose quickly.

Nasal obstruction or congestion is caused by inflammation of the tissues that line the inside of the nostrils. According to a study in the International Journal of General Medicine, this phenomenon leads to the perception of a decrease in nasal airflow or the sensation of facial fullness.

Usually, this condition is accompanied by a runny, itchy nose, a feeling of mucus in the throat, and sneezing. In this sense, uncovering the nose provides rapid relief from the symptoms. Fortunately, most causes of this symptom are temporary.

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Why does he cover his nose?

As mentioned, allergic responses are among the most common causes of nasal congestion. These can appear upon dust, pollen, aerosols, or cigarette smoke exposure. In allergic rhinitis, the immune system produces inflammatory and vasoactive mediators that cause inflammation of the mucosa and secretion, according to a study in the Revista Alergia México.

Also, sudden temperature changes can cause a stuffy nose, especially if you go from hot to cold or when the frigid winter weather arrives.

Non-allergic rhinitis is another reason; it also generates inflammation of the mucous membranes and nasal passages. Symptoms are runny and blocked nose, itching, and sneezing. It may become recurring or not improve over time.

On the other hand, when you have the flu or a common cold, a stuffy nose is a symptom. This is because the viral infection lodges in the upper respiratory tract and generates an immune system response that tries to fight the offending agent, according to a publication in the journal Medicine.

Another reason the nose can be blocked is if there is an infection of the paranasal sinuses, called sinusitis or rhinosusitis. This can happen especially at night or after a cold. Similarly, having a deviated septum is also associated with an increased risk of congestion in one or both nostrils.

Lastly, consuming certain medications can cause stuffiness in the nose. Above all, those drugs affect blood circulation and cause inflammation in the nasal mucous membrane.

15 practical ways to unclog your nose

Currently, there are various ways to uncover the nose. Some methods result from popular wisdom, passed down from generation to generation, while others have scientific backing. Among the most used are the following.

1. Give yourself a massage between the eyebrows

According to traditional oriental medicine, you can get a gentle massage between the eyebrows to help unclog your nose in case of nasal congestion. A study conducted in Iran describes the beneficial effects of facial massage for relieving facial congestion and tenderness in athletes with chronic sinusitis.

We recommend you run your fingers for one minute while making smooth, circular movements in this area. With this simple gesture, you will likely be able to reduce discomfort in the nasal passages and inflammation. Also, this method has a preventive effect of reducing pressure in the frontal zone.

2. Massage your nostrils

Once the previous massage is done, you can perform another on the wings of the nose to obtain more significant relief. In this sense, you must follow the following steps.

Put a little pressure with your index finger on the affected nostril.
Make circular movements on the wings of the nose for 1 or 2 minutes.

This procedure will help you open the nasal canals. Combining this method with others, as we will mention later, can obtain better results.

3. Massage between the lip and the nose

Massaging the point between the lip and the nose is another helpful way to unclog the nasal passages. To do this, do the following.

Apply light pressure with your index and middle fingers on the mentioned point.
Make circular movements for a couple of minutes.

4. Avoid blowing your nose

In most cases, blowing your nose can make nasal congestion worse. If you do it hard and often, the nasal membranes become more inflamed, forming a vicious circle. It is advisable to only do it in case of sneezing or discharge from the nostrils.

Forcing out the trapped fluid will not clear your nose. Therefore, you must wait for the body to work and support it.

5. Room humidifier

The colder and drier the environment, the greater the nasal congestion. An investigation published in the Revista Alergia México indicates that the symptoms of allergic rhinitis are more prevalent in cold climates.

In the same way, if the humidity in the air is very low, the mucosa of the nose will dry out more, which can promote irritation of the respiratory tract, dry skin, itching, and redness of the eyes, among other things. Inconvenience.

For this reason, using a room humidifier at home or work is advisable. This is an easy-to-use device that can be placed in any corner. The steam will help keep the mucous membranes moist and thus facilitate its decongestion.

A study in Einstein magazine concluded that using humidifiers in rooms is an effective method of combating low humidity. Researchers recommend using it for 3 to 4 hours and then turning it off before bed since humidity naturally increases at night. In addition, it must be adequately washed after each use to prevent the proliferation of germs, such as fungi.

6. Hot compress

A popular way to unclog the nose is through heat. This method involves taking a cloth napkin, moistening it with hot water, and squeezing it carefully.

Then, it would be best to use it as a compress on the nose and forehead and then leave it on for 5 to 10 minutes. Another way is to moisten the cloth in water and heat it in the microwave.

7. Drink water

Drinking daily water will help you stay hydrated and fluidize the mucus. In this way, expelling secretions and relieving nasal congestion will be easier.

In addition, a Pediatric Emergency Medicine Treaty publication describes that adequate hydration is essential in respiratory viral infections to improve the patient’s general well-being, especially in children. To do this, look for the best way to drink water: have a glass between meals or prepare an infusion mid-morning and mid-afternoon.

8. Take advantage of the steam from the shower

The steam from the shower can also be an excellent way to unclog your nose. Once again, the humidity will help to humidify the airways and thin the mucus. This will facilitate their expulsion.

You can take a long shower to take advantage of its vapors or make them with a pot.

9. Have some honey

According to popular wisdom and considering its proven antimicrobial capacity, honey can contribute to the relief of common cold symptoms, such as cough and nasal congestion.

For this reason, some recommend taking a tablespoon of honey, alone or with lemon, in the morning. Also, another good option is to dissolve it in a glass of warm water (250 ml) and drink the mixture before going to sleep to achieve better results.

10. Use nasal strips

Nasal strips are small adhesive strips used to relieve snoring and nasal congestion. Its mechanism is based on keeping the nostrils open so that there is adequate circulation of inspired air.

Generally, they are used in adults and children over five years of age for short periods or while sleeping. However, its use for more than 12 hours should be avoided.

A 2018 randomized trial published in Allergy, asthma, and clinical immunology found that nasal dilator strips significantly improve nasal congestion, sleep quality, and sleep problems. In this sense, they are a practical tool to facilitate breathing.

11. Onion to reduce congestion

Onion is one of the most widely used vegetables worldwide. Beyond its significant contribution to the kitchen, it has beneficial properties for health. It is an essential source of flavonoids, sulfurous substances, and vitamins A and C. Hence, its antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune system stimulant effects.

Similarly, onion has quercetin. An effective flavonoid in treating allergic rhinitis and bronchial asthma, according to a study in the journal Molecules. Therefore, it is possible to take advantage of the benefits of this vegetable to unclog the nose and reduce the discomfort of flu and allergies.

You can prepare a home remedy against congestion using three chopped onions, the juice of one lemon, and two garlic cloves.

These ingredients are mixed in the blender until a thick paste is obtained.
The mixture is then filtered and stored in a glass container for 24 hours.

Popular wisdom recommends taking a tablespoon of this remedy every 4 hours until the symptoms are relieved.

12. Eucalyptus or mint steam

Although the steam alone can quickly unblock the nose, the mint and eucalyptus can enhance its effect.

A study published by American family physicians showed that natural oils with eucalyptus and menthol alleviate common cold symptoms, including nasal congestion.

13. Ginger tea

Ginger, also called Zingiber officinale, is a plant widely used in traditional Asian medicine. One of the ways to take advantage of its properties to unclog the nose is through infusions. To do this, dissolve a teaspoon of grated fresh ginger in warm water, add lemon juice and honey, and drink before bed.

A 2020 study published in BMC complementary medicine and Therapies evaluated the efficacy of ginger extract compared to loratadine (an allergy drug) in treating allergic rhinitis.

The results described that ginger extract is as good as loratadine in improving the nasal symptoms of affected people. Also, ginger causes fewer side effects, such as drowsiness, constipation, or dizziness.

14. Nasal washes

Nasal lavages or irrigations are part of the medical tools for relieving the symptoms of rhinitis and sinusitis. A study in the International Journal of Medical and Surgical Sciences describes that nasal irrigation with saline solution can improve the function of the nasal mucosa through the mechanical elimination of mucus and inflammatory mediators, as well as the improvement of ciliary activity (part of the nose). Of self-cleaning of the nasal mucosa carried out by the cilia).

In general, douches are used to decrease symptoms of congestion in children. However, they are also instrumental in adults. This procedure must be performed by a professional or carried out under professional supervision.

15. Medicines to unclog your nose

In pharmacies, there are different valuable products to decongest the nose. In this group are saline sprays. These products hydrate the nasal passages and decrease inflammation of the blood vessels to improve airflow.

A Scientific and Educational Medical Journal study recommends using decongestants in rhinitis be exclusive for adults and children over four years of age. In addition, the researchers warn that excessive use of these substances can worsen congestion.

Antihistamine drugs, such as cetirizine or loratadine, are some of the most widely used to relieve the symptoms of rhinitis and sinusitis. However, a doctor should always be consulted before medication, as they can cause side effects.

Can’t you uncover your nose?

As you can see, the sensation of a stuffy nose is a common symptom associated with multiple diseases. Fortunately, most disappear after a couple of days.

If you cannot unclog your nose after applying the recommendations above and complying with the medical treatment, see a health professional immediately. Medical personnel are trained to provide you with a proper diagnosis and treatment.