How can you alleviate sinus discomfort at home. What natural remedies are effective for sinus drainage. Which home treatments can help remove sinus mucus plugs. When should you seek medical attention for sinus problems.

Understanding Sinus Congestion and Its Causes

Sinus congestion can be a frustrating and uncomfortable condition that affects many individuals. It occurs when the nasal passages become inflamed and swollen, leading to a buildup of mucus and pressure in the sinuses. This can result in a range of symptoms, including nasal congestion, facial pain, headaches, and difficulty breathing.

What causes sinus congestion? There are several potential culprits:

• Viral infections (common colds)
• Bacterial infections
• Allergies
• Environmental irritants
• Structural issues in the nasal passages

Understanding the root cause of your sinus congestion is crucial for determining the most effective treatment approach. While severe or persistent cases may require medical intervention, many individuals find relief through natural home remedies.

Hydration: The Foundation of Sinus Health

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to combat sinus congestion is through proper hydration. Why is staying hydrated so important for sinus health? When you’re well-hydrated, your body can produce thinner mucus, which is easier to expel from the nasal passages.

How can you ensure proper hydration for sinus relief?

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day
• Consume warm herbal teas
• Sip on clear broths
• Avoid dehydrating beverages like alcohol and caffeine

In addition to increasing your fluid intake, using a humidifier can help maintain moisture in the air, further supporting sinus health. Aim to keep the humidity level in your home between 30-50% for optimal comfort and respiratory function.

Nasal Irrigation: A Natural Sinus Cleansing Technique

Nasal irrigation, also known as nasal lavage or sinus rinsing, is a highly effective method for clearing sinus congestion and promoting drainage. This technique involves flushing the nasal passages with a saline solution to remove excess mucus, allergens, and irritants.

How does nasal irrigation work? The saline solution helps to:

1. Thin and loosen mucus
2. Reduce inflammation in the nasal passages
3. Flush out allergens and irritants
4. Improve ciliary function (the tiny hairs that help move mucus out of the sinuses)

To perform nasal irrigation, you can use a neti pot, squeeze bottle, or nasal spray. It’s essential to use sterile or distilled water to prevent the introduction of harmful bacteria or parasites into your nasal passages.

How to Make a Homemade Saline Solution

Creating your own saline solution for nasal irrigation is simple and cost-effective. Here’s a quick recipe:

• 1 cup of distilled or boiled (then cooled) water
• 1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized salt
• 1/8 teaspoon of baking soda

Mix these ingredients thoroughly and use within 24 hours. Remember to always use clean equipment and fresh solution for each irrigation session.

Steam Therapy: Unlocking the Power of Moisture

Steam therapy is a time-honored remedy for sinus congestion that harnesses the power of warm, moist air to provide relief. How does steam therapy benefit sinus health? The warm, humid air helps to:

• Moisten and soothe irritated nasal passages
• Thin mucus, making it easier to expel
• Reduce inflammation in the sinuses
• Provide temporary relief from congestion and pressure

There are several ways to incorporate steam therapy into your sinus care routine:

1. Take a hot shower and breathe in the steam
2. Use a facial steamer or a bowl of hot water with a towel draped over your head
3. Add essential oils like eucalyptus or peppermint to enhance the decongestant effect

For best results, perform steam therapy for 5-10 minutes, 2-4 times a day. Be cautious with the temperature of the water to avoid burns, and keep your eyes closed to prevent irritation.

The Surprising Benefits of Chicken Soup for Sinus Health

Chicken soup has long been touted as a remedy for colds and sinus congestion, but is there any scientific basis for this claim? Interestingly, research has shown that chicken soup may indeed have therapeutic properties for respiratory health.

How does chicken soup help with sinus congestion? Studies suggest that chicken soup may:

• Reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract
• Improve the function of cilia in the nasal passages
• Provide hydration and essential nutrients
• Offer a comforting, warming effect that can alleviate symptoms

While the exact mechanisms are not fully understood, the combination of ingredients in chicken soup, including vegetables, herbs, and spices, may contribute to its beneficial effects. Additionally, the steam from hot soup can help moisten and soothe irritated nasal passages.

Homemade Chicken Soup Recipe for Sinus Relief

Try this simple recipe to harness the power of chicken soup for sinus health:

1. In a large pot, simmer chicken bones or a whole chicken with carrots, celery, onions, and garlic
2. Add herbs like thyme, rosemary, and parsley
3. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice
4. Cook until the vegetables are tender and the broth is flavorful
5. Strain and serve hot, inhaling the steam as you eat

Enjoy this nourishing soup 1-2 times a day when experiencing sinus congestion for maximum benefit.

Alternating Hot and Cold Compresses: A Soothing Sinus Massage

Applying alternating hot and cold compresses to the face can provide significant relief from sinus pressure and congestion. This technique, known as contrast therapy, helps stimulate blood flow and promote drainage of the sinuses.

How do hot and cold compresses work to alleviate sinus congestion?

• Hot compresses help to dilate blood vessels and promote circulation
• Cold compresses constrict blood vessels and reduce inflammation
• The alternating temperatures create a pumping action that can help move congested fluids

To perform this therapy:

1. Apply a warm compress to your face for 3 minutes, focusing on the sinus areas
2. Follow with a cold compress for 30 seconds
3. Repeat this cycle 2-3 times
4. Perform the treatment 2-6 times daily for best results

Always use clean compresses and be mindful of the temperature to avoid skin irritation or burns. This simple yet effective technique can provide significant relief from sinus pressure and discomfort.

Manuka Honey: Nature’s Antibacterial Powerhouse

Manuka honey, derived from the nectar of the manuka tree in New Zealand, has gained recognition for its potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. These unique characteristics make it a potentially valuable natural remedy for sinus congestion, especially when caused by bacterial infections.

How can manuka honey benefit sinus health?

• Exhibits strong antibacterial activity against various pathogens
• Possesses anti-inflammatory properties that may reduce sinus swelling
• Provides a soothing effect on irritated throat and nasal passages
• May help boost the immune system

To incorporate manuka honey into your sinus care routine, try the following:

1. Add a teaspoon of manuka honey to warm herbal tea
2. Mix manuka honey with warm water and a squeeze of lemon for a soothing drink
3. Consume a teaspoon of raw manuka honey directly

When selecting manuka honey, look for products with a high Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) rating, which indicates the honey’s antibacterial potency. A UMF rating of 10+ or higher is recommended for therapeutic use.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Sinus Problems

While home remedies can be effective for managing mild to moderate sinus congestion, there are instances where professional medical care is necessary. It’s important to recognize the signs that indicate a need for medical attention.

When should you consult a healthcare provider for sinus issues?

• Symptoms persist for more than 10 days
• You develop a fever of 102°F (38.9°C) or higher
• Nasal discharge becomes thick, dark, or greenish
• You experience severe facial pain or headaches
• Vision changes occur
• You have a history of recurrent or chronic sinusitis

Additionally, individuals with certain medical conditions, such as asthma, emphysema, or compromised immune systems, should consult their healthcare provider promptly when experiencing sinus symptoms. These conditions can increase the risk of complications from sinus infections.

Diagnostic Approaches for Sinus Problems

If you seek medical attention for sinus issues, your healthcare provider may use various diagnostic techniques to assess your condition:

1. Physical examination of the nasal passages and throat
2. Nasal endoscopy to visualize the sinus openings
3. Imaging studies such as CT scans or MRI in more complex cases
4. Allergy testing if allergies are suspected as a contributing factor
5. Culture of nasal discharge to identify specific pathogens

Based on the findings, your healthcare provider can recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include antibiotics, corticosteroids, or other medications to address the underlying cause of your sinus congestion.

Optimizing Your Sleep Position for Sinus Drainage

The position in which you sleep can significantly impact sinus drainage and congestion. Proper positioning can help prevent mucus buildup and promote natural sinus clearance during the night.

What is the best sleeping position for sinus drainage?

• Elevate your head: Use an extra pillow or a wedge pillow to keep your head elevated at a 30-45 degree angle
• Sleep on your side: This can help prevent postnasal drip and reduce congestion
• Avoid sleeping flat on your back: This position can worsen congestion and lead to increased snoring

In addition to optimal sleeping positions, consider these nighttime tips for better sinus health:

1. Use a humidifier in your bedroom to maintain proper air moisture
2. Perform nasal irrigation before bed to clear your sinuses
3. Avoid eating close to bedtime to prevent acid reflux, which can exacerbate sinus issues
4. Keep your bedroom clean and free of allergens that may trigger congestion

By implementing these sleep strategies, you can promote better sinus drainage and wake up feeling more refreshed and less congested.

Dietary Considerations for Sinus Health

Your diet can play a significant role in managing sinus congestion and promoting overall sinus health. Certain foods may help reduce inflammation and support immune function, while others can exacerbate sinus issues.

Which foods should you include in your diet to support sinus health?

• Omega-3 rich foods: Salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds for their anti-inflammatory properties
• Citrus fruits: High in vitamin C to boost immune function
• Garlic and onions: Known for their antibacterial and antiviral properties
• Ginger and turmeric: Powerful anti-inflammatory spices
• Leafy greens: Rich in antioxidants and vitamins that support overall health

Conversely, some foods may trigger or worsen sinus congestion in certain individuals:

1. Dairy products: Can increase mucus production in some people
2. Refined sugars: May promote inflammation in the body
3. Alcohol: Can lead to dehydration and worsen congestion
4. Processed foods: Often high in sodium, which can cause fluid retention and worsen swelling

Consider keeping a food diary to identify any potential triggers for your sinus symptoms. Remember that dietary effects can vary from person to person, so pay attention to how your body responds to different foods.

The Role of Exercise in Sinus Health

Regular exercise can have a positive impact on sinus health and overall respiratory function. While it may seem counterintuitive to exercise when experiencing sinus congestion, moderate activity can actually help alleviate symptoms and promote drainage.

How does exercise benefit sinus health?

• Increases blood circulation, which can reduce inflammation in the nasal passages
• Promotes deeper breathing, helping to clear the sinuses
• Boosts the immune system, potentially reducing the frequency of sinus infections
• Helps manage stress, which can contribute to sinus problems

What types of exercises are beneficial for sinus health?

1. Cardiovascular exercises like brisk walking, jogging, or cycling
2. Yoga, particularly poses that involve inverted positions
3. Swimming, which exposes the nasal passages to humid air
4. Tai chi, which combines gentle movement with deep breathing

When exercising with sinus congestion, start with low-intensity activities and gradually increase as tolerated. Always listen to your body and avoid overexertion, especially if you’re experiencing significant discomfort or fatigue.

Natural Decongestants: Herbal Remedies for Sinus Relief

Many herbs and plant-based remedies have been used traditionally to alleviate sinus congestion and promote drainage. These natural decongestants can offer relief without the side effects often associated with over-the-counter medications.

Which herbs are known for their decongestant properties?

• Eucalyptus: Contains cineole, a compound that can help clear airways
• Peppermint: Menthol in peppermint acts as a natural decongestant and expectorant
• Ginger: Possesses anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties
• Elderberry: May help boost immune function and reduce inflammation
• Horseradish: Contains compounds that can help thin mucus

How can you incorporate these natural decongestants into your sinus care routine?

5 Home Remedies for Sinus Drainage

To ease sinus discomfort, aim to drink plenty of fluids and use a humidifier to keep the air moist. You can also try nasal irrigation, chicken soup, or manuka honey — but call a doctor if your symptoms last more than 10 days.

You know the feeling. Your nose is either plugged or like a leaky faucet, and your head feels like it’s in a vise. It feels better to keep your eyes closed because they’re puffy and sore. And your throat feels like you swallowed nails.

Read on for six natural ways that can help drain your sinuses

Sinus problems can be uncomfortable. However, there are effective remedies, from chicken soup to compresses, that you can use to alleviate the pain and discomfort of sinus issues.

1. Water, water everywhere

Drink fluids and run a humidifier or vaporizer.

Why is this important? Fluids and humidification help to thin mucus and drain your sinuses. They also lubricate your sinuses and keep your skin hydrated.

Hot beverages, like herbal tea, can be especially hydrating. Hot beverages also provide an extra benefit from the steam.

2. Nasal irrigation

Nasal irrigation is very effective at relieving nasal congestion and irritation.

Saline irrigation simply means gently flushing out your nasal passages with a saline solution. You can do this with special squeeze bottles, bulb syringes, or a neti pot.

A neti pot is an inexpensive apparatus that looks like Aladdin’s lamp. The saline mixture is available prepackaged. You can also make your own by following these steps:

• Mix 3 teaspoons of iodine-free salt with 1 teaspoon of baking soda to create a dry mixture.
• Dissolve 1 teaspoon of the dry mixture in 1 cup (8 fluid ounces) of distilled, sterilized, or filtered water.

To capture the liquid, you will want to irrigate your sinuses while standing over a sink or basin. Pour, spray, or squirt a liberal amount of the solution into one nostril while tilting your head so it flows out the other nostril. Do this with each nostril. It also flushes away bacteria and irritants.

Be sure to thoroughly clean your neti pot after each use, as bacteria can build up inside. In addition, never use straight tap water as this may contain bacteria that can infect your sinuses. If you do use tap water, be sure to boil it beforehand.

3. Steam

Steam helps relieve congestion by loosening mucus.

Give yourself a steam treatment using a bowl of hot water and a large towel. Add menthol, camphor, or eucalyptus oils to the water if you like.

Place the towel over your head so it falls along the sides of the bowl, trapping the steam inside. Most people do this until the steam dissipates. The steam from a hot shower can also work but is a less concentrated experience.

4. Chicken soup

One older 2000 study found that chicken soup reduces inflammation associated with sinus congestion and colds.

So what’s the secret? Scientists haven’t identified the active ingredient in chicken soup, but they speculate that the steam combined with the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of the soup’s ingredients are what help clear the sinuses.

5. Warm and cold compresses

Rotating warm and cold compresses on your sinuses should also help.

1. Lay back with a warm compress draped across your nose, cheeks, and forehead for three minutes.
2. Remove the warm compress and replace it with a cold compress for 30 seconds.
3. Do this two to three times.

You can repeat this process two to six times each day.

6. Manuka honey

Honey may be a good alternative when a bacterial infection is causing your sinus congestion.

Some research suggests that honey has antibacterial properties. Manuka honey, in particular, has many therapeutic uses.

Try adding manuka honey to a cup of warm herbal tea.

Your sinus trouble can be caused by a number of things, including sinusitis and rhinitis.

Sinusitis is an infection that causes inflammation and swelling of your sinuses. It is most commonly caused by a viral infection but can also be caused by a bacterial or fungal infection, as well as by an environmental allergy.

If you have allergic rhinitis, your immune system triggers the release of histamines that irritate your nasal membranes. This leads to congestion and sneezing. Allergic rhinitis can lead to sinusitis.

Chronic sinusitis is an inflammatory condition that normally lasts more than three months. Nasal polyps, which are noncancerous growths, can accompany chronic sinusitis.

It’s time to see your doctor if you experience:

• symptoms that last longer than 10 days
• a fever of 102°F (38.9°C) or higher
• symptoms that get worse, including a spike in your fever or increased greenish nasal discharge
• changes in vision

You should also see a doctor if you have asthma or emphysema or if you take medications that suppress your immune system.

What is the best position to drain your sinuses?

Keeping your head elevated, especially when lying down, can help drain your sinuses naturally with gravity.

What is the best drink for sinus drainage?

Other than plain water, you can try warm water with honey, tea, broth, or juice.

How do I clear my sinuses immediately?

Since sinusitis is most commonly an infection, you’ll probably need to either wait for the virus to clear your system or take antibiotics for a bacterial infection. Your allergy medicines can help with chronic sinusitis, but see your doctor to make sure you’re on the best treatment course. That said, you can get some temporary, immediate relief by rinsing your sinuses with saline with a saline spray or a neti pot.

According to the AAO-HNS, around 30 million Americans have at least one bout of sinusitis each year. But these easy home remedies can help relieve your symptoms and ease your breathing.

Ear Nose and Throat – Why Thick Mucus Has Blocked Your Nose (Plus What To Do)

Everyone experiences a stuffy or runny nose from time to time. We’ve all had the unpleasant sensation of being unable to breathe with bad allergies or a cold.

But sometimes these symptoms can become chronic. Frequent nasal congestion from thick mucus and other causes can make daily life miserable. So what do you do when you feel like there’s a huge mucus plug in your nose?

How Does Nasal Blockage Happen?

Even though it probably feels like thick mucus is what’s plugging your nose, this isn’t the only type of nasal blockage. Frequently, swollen nasal tissues are the culprit. Here, we’ll look at some well-known and not-so-well-known causes of both kinds of nasal blockage.

Overuse of Topical Decongestants

The most common reason for chronic nasal congestion we see in our office is rhinitis medicamentosa. This fancy term simply means that your medication is actually causing your symptoms.

Topical nasal decongestants, like oxymetazoline and phenylephrine, work extremely well to reduce nasal congestion — in the short term. These nasal sprays, drops, and gels are only designed to be used for about three days at a time. If used for longer than that, patients can experience something commonly called “rebound congestion,” meaning their symptoms actually become worse as a result of using the medication.

This kicks off a vicious cycle of further congestion, more topical decongestant use, followed by even worse congestion. This is rhinitis medicamentosa.

Because not everyone knows not to use these nasal decongestants for longer periods of time, we see patients with this condition often.

Allergic Rhinitis

Environmental allergies are a common cause of nasal congestion. When pollen, pet dander, or mold hit your nose, they can cause severe swelling in your nasal lining and turbinates (small structures that increase the surface area in your nose and humidify the air you breathe). This irritation also leads to excess mucus production as your nose tries to flush out the offending particles.

Combined, this nasal swelling and mucus production can plug up your nasal passageways quickly.

Structural Problems in the Nose

Problems with the structure of the nose can also lead to nasal congestion. A person experiencing nasal valve collapse, for example, will have trouble breathing in, especially during strenuous exercise.

A deviated septum can also lead to nasal congestion. You may not produce excess mucus, but your nose might feel plugged often, especially on one side. This happens because the wall of bone and cartilage in the middle of your nose has deviated to one side or the other.

How Can I Prevent Mucus From Plugging My Nose?

One thing is certain: Whether it’s structures, swollen tissues, or mucus plugging your nose, it’s unpleasant. So let’s take a look at some ways to avoid congestion in the first place.

Don’t Get Hooked on Nasal Decongestants

If you use topical decongestants frequently, make sure you don’t use them for more than a couple days in a row. This will help you avoid developing a dependence on them that results in constant congestion.

Saline Irrigation and Saline Spray

Irrigating your nasal passages and sinuses with saline can help clear your nasal passages of any lingering pollen or allergen residue. It can also wash out excess mucus buildup to maintain a clear nasal passageway.

Saline spray can also be helpful to hydrate the nose, especially if you have mucus that crusts over and causes blockage. Some pharmacies also sell a viscous, gelatinous form of saline you can spray into your nose to help the mucus move along while providing hydration as well.

Although most saline sprays are formulated with isotonic saline, you can also purchase hypotonic saline solution, which has a decreased concentration of salt. Because this solution contains less salt than your body, your tissues may absorb fluid from the solution, helping hydrate your nasal passages. Hypertonic saline solutions, which have a higher salt concentration than your body, may have the opposite effect, pulling fluid from swollen nasal tissues and decongesting the nose.

Treat Your Allergies

If you suffer from seasonal or environmental allergies, treating these proactively with oral antihistamines or topical steroids can go a long way to decreasing nasal swelling and mucus production before they plug your nose.

Hydrate!

Drinking more water may seem like an overly simple treatment, but staying well hydrated can help thin the mucus you produce. When you’re dehydrated, your mucus is thicker, stickier, and harder for your body to eliminate.

Consider Further Treatment

If your issue is more a constant excess production of mucus than swollen tissues or structural problems, and no other solutions have helped, you might consider a procedure like RhinAer or Clarifix. These procedures deactivate the overactive nerve at the back of the nose that stimulates excess mucus production.

How Can I Treat Mucus Buildup?

If you’ve been unable to prevent thick mucus from plugging up your nose, we suggest you start with saline nasal irrigation and staying well hydrated to thin and flush out the mucus buildup.

Additionally, if you’ve been using a topical decongestant, such as a nasal spray like Afrin, for more than three days, stop use immediately. The rebound congestion will go away; it may just take one to two weeks.

If you think your congestion results from allergies, an over-the-counter antihistamine is your next step. If this doesn’t work, it’s probably time to call in a professional!

When Should I Call a Doctor?

What if you’ve kicked the decongestant habit and tried all the over-the-counter antihistamines and saline irrigations with no success? At this point, it’s time to contact your ENT doctor or allergy specialist. They can evaluate your nasal congestion to determine its source and how best to approach treatment.

We always attempt medical treatment first, which could involve further over-the-counter remedies or prescription medication. If that doesn’t work, we also have the option of surgical procedures, such as VivAer for nasal valve collapse or septoplasty for a deviated septum.

David Cuthbertson, MD

Dr. Cuthbertson is a physician at Ear Nose & Throat Associates of Lubbock. He joined the team at ENT Lubbock from Houston, where he was chief resident of the prestigious Bobby R. Alford Department of Otolaryngology at Baylor College of Medicine. He is board certified in Otolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery and has quickly built a reputation, not only as an extremely skilled surgeon, but as an approachable and compassionate clinician adept in the newest standards and technologies. Learn more about Dr. Cuthbertson.

Philip Scolaro, MD

Dr. Scolaro is a board-certified Otolaryngologist servicing the South Plains area. He has been practicing in Lubbock since 1990 and has earned a reputation as a skilled and experienced surgeon. He currently serves as the Medical Director for Covenant High Plains Surgery Center campuses, is a member of Covenant Health Partners and is an adjunct faculty professor for Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine. Learn more about Dr. Scolaro. 

How to get rid of nasal congestion: effective tips

Contents:

➦ Why the nose can not breathe

➦ Treatment for runny nose due to allergies

➦ Effective treatment of the nose at home

➦ Relieve nasal congestion in a child

➦ Runny nose in pregnant women, how to treat?

➦Effective remedies to eliminate nasal congestion

➦How to quickly eliminate a runny nose with folk remedies?

Good breathing allows you to enjoy an active lifestyle, ensures healthy sleep and well-being. Throughout life, many children and adults experience various causes of nasal congestion. We are used to using folk remedies and drops to remove severe congestion, but maybe it’s something else? How to find out why your nose has stopped breathing and make the right decision on its treatment and prevention?

Why can’t my nose breathe

Coryza is the discharge of mucus from the nostrils. Excess nasal mucus leads to a watery nasal discharge that runs out of the nostrils or down the throat. Nasal congestion occurs due to inflammation of the nasal mucosa. Swollen nasal passages narrow the airflow, making it difficult to breathe through the nose. Inflammation makes it difficult to clear mucus from your nose, so you may have a buildup of thick, dry mucus. This causes a feeling of stuffiness, which is why this condition is called stuffy nose.

The easiest way to determine the cause of a runny nose in a child. Children not only often catch colds, but also are subject to age-related changes, and also tend to taste everything. It happens that the toy is not only in the baby’s teeth, but also in the nasal cavity. There is no need to be afraid of this, a detail noticed in time will be easily brought to light by a general practitioner.

It will be much more difficult to understand why an adult has breathing problems. It is often quite difficult for allergy sufferers to distinguish the first symptoms of an allergy from a cold. We recommend using a simple rule, if after taking antihistamines, a runny nose does not subside within a few hours, most likely it is a cold. If the same symptoms appear the next day, allergies should be excluded from the list of diseases. Of course, there are exceptions to every rule. It is possible that you just have more contact with the alleged allergen. Regular intake of antiallergic drugs will get rid of hay fever in just a couple of days, and the cold itself will take at least a week.

Other causes of nasal congestion:

• Deviated septum;
• Occurrence of polyps on the mucosa;
• Manifestation of an allergic reaction;
• Cold or viral infection.

Apart from a deviated septum, all other causes can be removed without surgery. Various sprays and drops are used to cleanse the sinuses, nourish them with natural extracts and effectively restore the normal state of the respiratory tract mucosa. If you use natural remedies approved by doctors, you will not only not harm your mucous system, but also significantly improve its condition.

Treatment for runny nose due to allergies

One of the most common causes of a runny nose is an allergic reaction. Nasal discharge, itchy eyes, frequent sneezing and other unpleasant symptoms are called hay fever. If you know that a certain allergen in the environment causes a similar reaction, it is recommended to change your route or stay at home during its flowering. Be attentive to your body and listen to its symptoms, so you can more accurately understand what exactly causes your allergies. Knowing your enemy by sight will make it easier to fight him. If you doubt about the causes of allergies, but have a number of guesses, you can go and take an allergy test, which will give a more accurate and unambiguous result.

While at home during your seasonal allergies, keep your windows tightly closed, mop more often, and rinse your nose regularly. Use special corticosteroid drops to suppress allergy symptoms and ease nasal breathing. To ventilate the room, it is recommended to use an air conditioner, which is equipped with special filters that can contain pollen particles and microcells.

When leaving the house, use a respirator or a mask with a special filter. They will reduce the chance of harmful particles of dust, dirt and allergens entering your nasopharynx. Even an ordinary sheet mask will make your stay on the street easier, but professional products will have a more lasting effect. After coming home, it is recommended to take a shower and wash all clothes that may have come into contact with a potential allergen.

Take antihistamines regularly during the flowering season and when exposed to allergens, even if you do not experience symptoms. There are other therapies that you can talk to your doctor about. The main thing is to take care of yourself, do wet cleaning regularly and try to avoid things, plants and animals that you are allergic to.

What to use for nasal congestion

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Effective nasal treatment at home

One of the long-standing and proven methods of treatment that helps to quickly remove the unpleasant symptoms of rhinitis is moisturizing and washing the sinuses. Steam inhalations should be done: breathe warm, moist air enriched with essential oils and nourishing extracts. It is recommended to use humidifiers at home and in the office to prevent excessive drying of the mucosa.

Chamomile has excellent antiseptic and antiviral properties. Its decoction is used for inhalation and for washing the nose. Be careful and be sure to check for allergies to chamomile, especially if you have not used it before. Steam inhalation should be carried out one hour after a meal or at least half an hour before. Grandfather’s method of inhalation is the inhalation of steam from potatoes cooked in their own skins. You need to breathe in warm clouds of steam that come from the vegetable. Make sure that the inhalation is not too burning. Inhaling hot air, you risk damaging the mucous membrane and causing even more harm to the body.

After the procedure, it is necessary to pause and not go outside for at least 2 hours. Only after that the effect of inhalation will be fixed and it will be possible to go outside. Needles and oak bark have a good effect on the respiratory tract. They must be steamed in advance to then be used as an infusion. Contraindications to inhalation are: high fever, hypertension, heart failure, lung problems and a tendency to nosebleeds.

A proven way to clear your nose without drops is to rinse with saline. You can make it yourself or buy a pressurized bottle of seawater at the pharmacy. There are cuckoo-type methods where the flushing goes through two nostrils at once. They are effective in dealing with allergic rhinitis and any other type of sinus congestion. Some even believe that regular washing and moisturizing helps to cope with chronic nasal congestion.

Relieve nasal congestion in a child

Any swelling of the sinuses indicates inflammation and swelling of the mucous membrane. A runny nose can pass without snot, but the feeling of clogging and difficulty in breathing are already obvious symptoms of inflammation. Our grandmothers tried to break through nasal congestion with natural drops from beets or onions, the sensation was not very pleasant. The current pharmaceutical industry offers a variety of products that will help eliminate congestion, made on the basis of natural ingredients.

Herbal preparations based on herbal extracts or essential oils are very popular. They help relieve swelling of the nasal mucosa, have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects. These drugs are completely safe and non-addictive, you can safely use them for children of primary school age. Be sure to make sure that you do not have an allergic reaction to all components of the product. Many children suffer from allergies to pine needles and propolis, which are often found in cold remedies.

Products based on aloe or cyclamen are very popular, they not only remove nasal congestion, but also moisturize the mucous membranes, have active antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Colloidal silver copes well with bacteria in the sinuses. On its basis, make means for washing, as well as drops and sprays.

Runny nose in pregnant women, how to treat?

Treating a runny nose during pregnancy is a real challenge. Most medicines are forbidden for mothers, so you have to save yourself with folk remedies and natural herbs. By the way, even some herbal ingredients can adversely affect the course of pregnancy, so be very careful when starting treatment on your own. There is even such a term as “rhinitis of pregnancy”, it does not refer to any type of runny nose and usually disappears before or immediately after childbirth. This type of problem is associated with hormonal changes in the body. It cannot be cured by the methods we are accustomed to, only to stop.

Nasal congestion is the most difficult to deal with in the 1st trimester. It is during this period that the basic data of the embryo are laid and the functioning of all systems is normalized. The use of any serious medications during this period is highly undesirable. And even though a runny nose is often considered a non-serious problem, it is better for a pregnant woman at the beginning of her term to consult a doctor immediately. He will tell you what caused the congestion, diagnose the problem as an allergy or a common catarrhal rhinitis. In case of a cold or infection, it will be possible to pierce the nose with saline rinses or inhalation. The cause of a runny nose can be dry air or an abundance of dust, so it is important to keep the house clean and control the level of humidity in the room.

It is much easier to stop a runny nose during the 2nd trimester. The fetus is already quite formed and it becomes possible to use not only folk remedies, but also various drops. True, it is better to choose a smaller dosage or even for children, then you will not harm your body and the unborn baby. Washing, inhalation and humidified air are still effective, and it is also advisable to take allergy tests to rule out allergies. Remember that even if you have never suffered from it, the likelihood of an allergy is high enough at any age.

It is not an easy task to free the nose from congestion during the 3rd trimester. Especially if standard folk methods no longer help you and more serious intervention is required. Be sure to consult a doctor who will conduct an examination and possibly prescribe tests. Remember that a runny nose may not go away in 1-2 days and requires a long treatment. Perform flushing and inhalation for at least a week before sounding the alarm. Be careful and take good care of your body during pregnancy.

Effective remedies for nasal congestion

Nasal sprays

Pshik hypertonic nasal spray 100ml

Spray relieves nasal congestion, reduces swelling, protects against the penetration of bacteria and viruses, cleanses the mucosa, helps restore the normal functioning of the respiratory tract, accelerates recovery from diseases of the nasopharynx and paranasal sinuses.

Atomer nasal spray 150 ml

Atomer cleanses the nose of secretions, moisturizes the nasal mucosa, eliminates swelling and congestion, is effective in preventing rhinitis, sinusitis, inflammation of the paranasal sinuses, reduces the risk of complications of ENT diseases.

Deflu Silver Nose Spray 15 ml

Deflu Silver Nose Spray is recommended for adenoiditis, rhinitis, rhinosinusitis. It has an anti-inflammatory, anti-edematous effect, helps to cleanse the nose of mucus containing viruses and pathogenic microbes, providing a significant therapeutic effect.

More in Nasal Sprays

How to quickly eliminate a runny nose folk remedies?

Quite often we do not trust pharmacy drugs, because they are addictive. Then old grandmother’s recipes come to the rescue, recorded and passed down from generation to generation. So that you don’t think yourself there, but folk remedies have a very effective effect. With proper application and dosage, you can improve your condition in just a few days.

Onion juice will help to overcome a runny nose in a few days. It must be mixed with vegetable oil and used as regular natural drops. The bulb is finely sautéed so that the maximum amount of juice stands out from it, then it is infused with oil for a day. You need to bury a few drops in the nostrils at night or in the morning and evening. Onions have strong bactericidal properties, killing viruses and bacteria in the nasopharynx.

Garlic swabs are considered to be another effective method for treating the common cold. Like onions, garlic has an antiviral effect, and it also pierces the nose very well. To install such tampons, you must first rinse the nose with saline, then place the turundas in the nostrils and leave for several hours. To make a tampon, garlic is crushed into a pulp, water is added and cotton pads are soaked in this mixture.

Aloe is considered an excellent natural remedy for sinusitis or chronic rhinitis. Its juice moisturizes the sinuses, prevents them from drying out, helps to expel mucus and has an antibacterial effect. Pure juice is instilled into the nostrils 2-3 times a day. The required dose for an adult is 5 drops, for a child 3-4 drops of juice diluted with water. For the best effect, you can dilute aloe juice with carrot juice in a 1: 1 ratio.

Raw beets will help clear the sinuses of mucus and restore breathing. Its juice is rich in iodine, has an antiseptic effect and perfectly fights any kind of rhinitis. For a better effect, grind the beets in half with carrots. The only difference is that beetroot juice is extracted from a boiled vegetable. Natural honey or propolis will help to supplement the drops. The main thing is that you do not suffer from allergies to bee products. Otherwise, drops can only aggravate the situation. You need to instill 1-3 drops in each nostril 2 times a day. You can also gargle with the resulting solution for a stronger effect.

Anti-Rhinitis Foot Baths

Steaming your feet in special foot baths is great for clearing nasal congestion. Warming up the body, the effect gradually reaches the nasopharynx, helping to lay off the nasal passages and relieve inflammation. Of course, in order to completely clear the nasopharynx of mucus, additional washing is necessary, but the effect of congestion can disappear after the first steaming of the legs. The legs are generally one of the most sensitive organs of our body, there are more than a dozen different nerve endings that are responsible for the health of all organs and systems. Hot water has been proven to improve blood circulation, bringing it to the sinuses, while mustard has a powerful antibacterial effect.

Baths also have contraindications, such as hypertension, varicose veins, significant skin lesions on the feet, as well as high fever and pregnancy. It is not difficult to soar your legs correctly, first you need to choose the optimal water temperature. It should not exceed 40 ° C, so as not to damage the skin on the legs and cause burns. Pour a few tablespoons of mustard there, depending on the volume of your basin, take at the rate of 1 tablespoon per one and a half liters of water. Then let it brew for a couple of minutes and lower your legs into the container.

Steam your feet for no more than half an hour, so as not to cause skin irritation. You can add natural herbs to the bath, such as chamomile, oak bark and sage. They will provide the effect of inhalation and have a good effect on the health of the legs. After steaming, rub your feet with a towel and put on warm socks. The procedure should be repeated several evenings to achieve the optimal effect.

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Removal of plugs from the tonsils – what is it and how is the procedure, types of plugs in the tonsils and methods for their removal

The palatine tonsils (tonsils) are a collection of lymphoid tissue located on either side of the entrance to the pharynx. They are an important part of the immune system and serve as a kind of barrier that prevents infection from entering the respiratory tract. The surface of the tonsils has a large number of folds (crypts and lacunae), which significantly increase the area of ​​the mucous membrane. This is necessary to enhance the protective function of formations.

In some people, dead and living bacteria, leukocytes, waste products of microorganisms, and food debris accumulate in the depths of the crypts. The result is a plug that looks like a whitish or yellowish formation.

Why do throats get blocked

The main cause of congestion is chronic tonsillitis. As a rule, it is a complication of angina and occurs when the doctor’s recommendations are not followed, for example, if the antibiotic regimen is violated. Also, the problem may occur in the background:

• mechanical damage to the tonsils with food;
• individual features of the structure of the tonsils, as a result of which the process of their self-purification is disturbed;
• weakening of local immunity in the oral cavity, for example, against the background of dental diseases, smoking, etc.

What are the dangers of plugs in the tonsils

Plugs in the tonsils are not just an accumulation of pathological contents. They are a suitable medium for microorganisms, including hemolytic streptococcus. Microbes can exist for a long time in a filled crypt. A decrease in local immunity contributes to the development of the inflammatory process. In this case, the infection can capture not only the tonsils themselves, but also other structures: the middle ear, the maxillary sinus, etc. That is why it is very important to remove the plugs in a timely manner. The sooner the patient turns to the ENT, the easier it will be to cope with the formations.

Signs of congestion in the throat

In most cases, plugs are clearly visible when examining the oral cavity. They look like light spots on the pink surface of the tonsils. The size of the formations can vary from 1-2 mm to a centimeter. In some patients, single plugs are detected, in others they cover almost all the tonsils. The arches, as a rule, thicken, and the tonsils themselves become loose and increase in size. With a significant number of formations, the patient also complains of bad breath. With the activation of the inflammatory process in a person, the temperature rises, there is a sore throat and discomfort during swallowing. The appearance of these symptoms requires the help of an ENT doctor.

Chronic tonsillitis treatment methods

Exacerbation of chronic tonsillitis is treated similarly to any inflammatory process in the pharynx and tonsils. The patient is assigned:

• antibacterial preparations;
• antiseptic sprays and rinses;
• anti-inflammatory and analgesics;
• fever reducers.

Depending on the situation, the treatment regimen can be supplemented with physiotherapy, drugs to stimulate the immune system, etc. When the inflammatory process is eliminated, the question is raised about the removal of purulent plugs from the tonsils.

Methods for removing purulent and food plugs from the tonsils

Otolaryngologists use two methods for removing plugs: with a syringe and using the Tonsillor apparatus. In the first case, the doctor uses a regular syringe filled with water or an antiseptic solution. A special cannula (flexible tube) is put on his nose, which is brought to the problem area. A jet of liquid is applied to the cork, the pressure of which washes away the accumulated pathological contents. The procedure is repeated until the surface is completely clean.

The device “Tonsillor” allows you to clean using ultrasonic waves. The working nozzle is made in the form of a small cup. It delivers ultrasound to the surface of the tonsil and immediately sucks the contents of the gaps. This technology allows you to quickly clean and further stimulate tissue regeneration. To date, Tonsillor is gradually replacing the classical technique.

Blockage Prevention

To reduce the risk of blockages on the tonsils, you must:

• carefully follow the doctor’s recommendations when treating angina;
• timely treat caries and other inflammatory diseases of the teeth and surrounding tissues;
• monitor oral hygiene;
• do not use other people’s toothbrushes, etc.

It is very important not to try to remove the plugs yourself.