How can you remove a sinus mucus plug at home. What are the most effective natural remedies for sinus drainage. Which home treatments provide relief from sinus congestion and discomfort. When should you seek medical attention for sinus issues.

Understanding Sinus Congestion and Mucus Plugs

Sinus congestion can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience, often accompanied by the formation of mucus plugs. These plugs can lead to pressure, pain, and difficulty breathing. But what exactly causes this condition?

Mucus plugs form when the sinuses produce excess mucus, which becomes thick and sticky. This can be due to various factors, including:

• Viral infections (common colds)
• Bacterial infections
• Allergies
• Environmental irritants
• Chronic sinusitis

Understanding the root cause of your sinus congestion is crucial for effective treatment. While many cases can be managed at home, persistent or severe symptoms may require medical attention.

Hydration: The Foundation of Sinus Health

One of the most fundamental steps in managing sinus congestion is proper hydration. But why is staying hydrated so important for sinus health?

Adequate fluid intake helps thin mucus secretions, making them easier to expel. This process is crucial for clearing sinus passages and reducing congestion. Here are some effective ways to increase your fluid intake:

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day
• Consume herbal teas, especially those with anti-inflammatory properties
• Sip on warm broths or clear soups
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can contribute to dehydration

In addition to internal hydration, maintaining proper humidity levels in your environment can also provide relief. Using a humidifier or vaporizer in your living space can help keep nasal passages moist, preventing the formation of thick mucus plugs.

The Power of Hot Beverages

Hot beverages offer a dual benefit for sinus congestion. Not only do they contribute to overall hydration, but the steam they produce can also help loosen mucus. Some beneficial options include:

• Ginger tea with honey
• Peppermint tea
• Chamomile tea
• Hot water with lemon and honey

These beverages can provide soothing relief while supporting your body’s natural drainage processes.

Nasal Irrigation: A Natural Flush for Your Sinuses

Nasal irrigation is a highly effective method for clearing sinus congestion and removing mucus plugs. But how does this technique work, and what’s the best way to perform it?

Nasal irrigation, also known as nasal lavage or sinus rinsing, involves flushing out your nasal passages with a saline solution. This process helps to:

• Remove excess mucus
• Clear out irritants and allergens
• Reduce inflammation in the nasal passages
• Improve mucociliary clearance (the natural cleaning process of your sinuses)

To perform nasal irrigation, you can use various tools such as a neti pot, squeeze bottle, or bulb syringe. Here’s a step-by-step guide to using a neti pot:

1. Prepare a saline solution using 1 cup of distilled or boiled (then cooled) water, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and a pinch of baking soda
2. Lean over a sink and tilt your head sideways
3. Insert the spout of the neti pot into your upper nostril
4. Allow the solution to flow through your nasal cavity and out the lower nostril
5. Repeat on the other side
6. Gently blow your nose to remove any remaining solution and mucus

It’s crucial to use sterile water and clean your irrigation device thoroughly after each use to prevent the introduction of harmful bacteria into your sinuses.

Steam Therapy: Loosening Mucus Naturally

Steam therapy is a time-honored remedy for sinus congestion, but what makes it so effective? The warmth and moisture from steam help to:

• Loosen thick mucus
• Reduce inflammation in the nasal passages
• Provide temporary relief from sinus pressure
• Improve breathing

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

Bowl Method

This traditional approach involves creating a personal steam tent:

1. Fill a large bowl with hot water
2. Add a few drops of essential oils like eucalyptus or peppermint (optional)
3. Drape a towel over your head and the bowl, creating a tent
4. Inhale the steam for 5-10 minutes
5. Repeat 2-4 times daily

Shower Steam

Taking a hot shower can provide similar benefits. The steam from the shower can help loosen mucus and provide relief from congestion. For an added boost, try hanging eucalyptus leaves from your showerhead.

Facial Steamer

If you frequently experience sinus issues, investing in a facial steamer can provide a convenient and effective way to administer steam therapy at home.

Remember to be cautious with hot water and steam to avoid burns. If you have asthma or other respiratory conditions, consult your doctor before trying steam therapy.

The Healing Power of Chicken Soup

Chicken soup has long been touted as a remedy for colds and sinus congestion, but is there scientific evidence to support this claim? Research suggests that chicken soup may indeed have therapeutic properties for sinus issues.

A study published in the journal Chest in 2000 found that chicken soup had anti-inflammatory properties that could help reduce symptoms associated with upper respiratory tract infections. But what makes chicken soup so effective?

• Anti-inflammatory effects: The combination of ingredients in chicken soup may help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages.
• Improved mucociliary clearance: The warm liquid can help increase the movement of nasal mucus, aiding in its removal.
• Hydration: The broth provides necessary fluids to thin mucus and support overall hydration.
• Nutrient-rich: Vegetables and chicken provide essential vitamins and minerals to support immune function.
• Steam inhalation: The steam from hot soup can help moisturize and clear nasal passages.

While the exact mechanism is not fully understood, the combination of these factors likely contributes to the soup’s effectiveness. To maximize the benefits, consider making your own chicken soup using fresh ingredients and aromatic herbs like garlic, ginger, and turmeric, which have their own anti-inflammatory properties.

Compress Therapy: Alternating Hot and Cold for Relief

Alternating between warm and cold compresses can provide significant relief from sinus pressure and congestion. But how does this method work, and what’s the best way to apply it?

The alternating temperatures help to:

• Stimulate blood flow to the sinus area
• Reduce inflammation
• Promote drainage of mucus
• Alleviate pain and pressure

Here’s a step-by-step guide to using compress therapy:

1. Start with a warm compress: Apply a warm, damp towel over your nose, cheeks, and forehead for about 3 minutes.
2. Switch to a cold compress: Remove the warm towel and replace it with a cold compress for about 30 seconds.
3. Repeat: Alternate between warm and cold compresses for 2-3 cycles.
4. Frequency: Perform this routine 2-6 times per day for best results.

For the warm compress, you can use a towel soaked in warm water or a microwaveable heat pack. For the cold compress, a bag of frozen vegetables wrapped in a thin towel works well. Always ensure the temperature is comfortable and not extreme to avoid skin irritation or burns.

Manuka Honey: Nature’s Antibiotic for Sinus Health

Manuka honey, produced by bees that pollinate the Manuka bush in New Zealand, has gained attention for its potential health benefits, including its effects on sinus health. But what makes Manuka honey special, and how can it help with sinus issues?

Manuka honey is known for its unique properties:

• High antibacterial activity: It contains methylglyoxal (MGO), which gives it strong antibacterial properties.
• Anti-inflammatory effects: It may help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages.
• Wound-healing properties: It can help repair damaged tissue in the nasal cavity.
• Immune-boosting potential: It may support overall immune function.

To use Manuka honey for sinus health:

1. Choose a high-quality Manuka honey with a UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) rating of 10+ or higher.
2. Add 1-2 teaspoons to warm (not hot) herbal tea or water.
3. Consume this mixture 1-2 times daily.
4. For more direct application, you can try adding a small amount of diluted Manuka honey to your nasal rinse solution (consult with a healthcare provider before trying this method).

While Manuka honey shows promise for sinus health, it’s important to note that more research is needed to fully understand its effects. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using it as a treatment, especially if you have diabetes or allergies to bee products.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Sinus Issues

While many sinus problems can be managed at home, there are times when professional medical care is necessary. But how do you know when it’s time to see a doctor?

Be alert for the following signs that indicate you should seek medical attention:

• Symptoms persisting for more than 10 days
• A fever of 102°F (38.9°C) or higher
• Worsening symptoms, including increased green or yellow nasal discharge
• Severe facial pain or headaches
• Changes in vision
• Swelling around the eyes
• Difficulty breathing

Additionally, individuals with certain conditions should be more cautious and consult a healthcare provider sooner:

• Those with asthma or emphysema
• Individuals taking immunosuppressive medications
• People with compromised immune systems
• Those with a history of recurrent sinus infections

A healthcare professional can determine if your sinus issues are caused by a bacterial infection requiring antibiotics, or if you need further evaluation for conditions like chronic sinusitis or nasal polyps. They can also provide guidance on more aggressive treatments if home remedies aren’t providing sufficient relief.

Diagnostic Procedures

If you do seek medical attention, your doctor may perform various diagnostic procedures to assess your condition:

• Physical examination of your nose and face
• Nasal endoscopy to visualize the inside of your nasal passages
• Imaging studies such as CT scans or MRIs in more complex cases
• Allergy testing if allergies are suspected to be a contributing factor

Remember, while home remedies can be effective for many sinus issues, persistent or severe symptoms should not be ignored. Timely medical intervention can prevent complications and provide faster relief.

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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9 ineffective methods of treatment in otolaryngology. Evidence-based medicine perspective

Over the past 10 years, otolaryngologists have received a lot of new data about diseases and methods of treatment. For example, it was previously believed that the removal of adenoids reduces immunity. And in 2019, scientists found out that this is not the case.

However, the MOH clinical guidelines—instructions for physicians to make a diagnosis and prescribe treatment—do not change as quickly as new high-quality studies come out. Unfortunately, because of this, many doctors continue to prescribe treatment, the effectiveness of which was refuted several years ago.

In this article, we have collected 9 outdated methods and told what evidence-based medicine uses in otorhinolaryngology.

There is no evidence that a course of tonsil flushing reduces the incidence of “plugs”

Tonsil washing

This is a fashionable but almost always unnecessary procedure.

Let’s explain why.

The tonsils are sponge-like in structure and can absorb food debris and dead bacterial cells. Their accumulation is called “plugs” or tonsillolites.

This is what the “plugs” in the tonsils look like

Previously, otolaryngologists believed that “plugs” were one of the manifestations of chronic tonsillitis. And tonsillitis, in turn, is dangerous for the heart, kidneys and joints. Therefore, doctors prescribed five to ten washing procedures. And along with this, testing for rheumatoid factor and C-reactive protein, which show the detrimental effect of tonsillolitis on the body.

However, the connection between “plugs” and tonsillitis has not been proven. Tonsillitis is a bacterial disease that in 80% of cases is caused by beta-hemolytic streptococcus, in the rest – other bacteria and fungal microorganisms.

By themselves, “plugs” are not a disease and do not require treatment. When there are too many of them and this causes discomfort, you can wash the tonsils, but only once or twice. This should be enough. If discomfort or bad breath persists after the procedure, the otolaryngologist should investigate the cause.

Most often, gastroesophageal reflux is to blame: the reflux of stomach contents into the larynx enhances the appearance of “plugs”.

Sometimes “plugs” occur for no reason: this happens in 3% of patients. They have to periodically wash or remove the tonsils.

Prescribing antibiotics for safety net

Another technique that has not proven its effectiveness is local antiseptics for tonsillitis. Sprays and lozenges are simply swallowed and do not reach the desired concentration in the thickness of the tonsil. Nevertheless, local antiseptics are still included in Russian treatment standards.

The standards also require doctors to prescribe antibiotics. But the essence of evidence-based medicine is not to prescribe unnecessary drugs that can harm. First, the doctor must assess the likelihood of streptococcal infection using the Zentor and McIsaac scale.

The scale shows the likelihood of group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus

Depending on the number of points, the doctor prescribes a streptatest and culture for group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus. A positive result indicates an episode of acute tonsillitis. In this case, the patient needs a ten-day course of antibiotics.

If in the last year you have had seven such episodes, or five in two years, or three in three years, the tonsils require removal. But the usual sore throat does not count: only confirmed streptococcus.

Nasal lavage with Cuckoo apparatus

The Proetz Nasal Wash, also known as the Cuckoo Nasal Wash, is a procedure used for inflammatory conditions such as sinusitis. It helps the outflow of fluid accumulated in the sinuses during edema.

The procedure looks like this: a saline solution is injected into one nostril, sometimes furatsilin or dioxidin. A vacuum suction is inserted into the other nostril, which draws fluid from the nose. The patient during the procedure must make the sound “cuckoo” so that the liquid does not get into the throat.

Flushing with saline at home is no less effective than the “cuckoo” and painless

Modern evidence-based medicine does not recognize this procedure. First, side effects are possible – nosebleeds or even more swelling. Secondly, home rinsing of the nose can be no less effective and comfortable: “cuckoo” is a painful procedure.

In world medicine, Proetz lavage is not used at all, only home lavages are used there using devices such as the Dolphin. However, in the post-Soviet space, the “cuckoo” is made in many medical centers, and it is prescribed in courses of five to ten procedures.

Small incision in the eardrum to drain pus

Eardrum puncture

The method of the Soviet school to combat purulent otitis media is a puncture of the eardrum. The logic was this: when pus accumulates in the middle ear cavity, it provokes pressure on the eardrums and can spread to neighboring tissues. Therefore, doctors artificially made an incision, gently releasing pus.

Modern otorhinolaryngology follows a different tactic: the patient takes a long course of antibiotics with high doses. After it, as a rule, purulent otitis media disappears.

But in some cases, antibiotics do not help, and then you have to turn to a puncture of the eardrum. For example, in our practice there was a case when a course of antibiotics did not help a two-month-old baby. He had a relapse, and pus got into the behind-the-ear area. We were forced to make a puncture. In children, the infection often moves from the middle ear cavity to the bone. This is due to anatomy: they have a very dense eardrum, so it is easier for pus to flow into the temporal bone than to break through the eardrum.

Maxillary sinus puncture

In the past, puncture was often used to clarify the diagnosis of sinusitis. Moreover, the indication for this procedure was the blackout on the x-ray. It can mean accumulation of fluid. A special curved needle was inserted into the patient’s nose, with which pus was removed from the sinus, then it was washed with an antiseptic. The fluid obtained during the puncture was sent for examination. However, in the vast majority of cases, this procedure is not necessary, and many patients can be treated conservatively.

There is no evidence for the effectiveness of the Minin reflector (blue lamp). But we know about the dangers of blue light for the retina, especially in children.

Blue lamp, electrophoresis and other “magic” physiotherapy

To begin with, let’s define the terminology: in Russian and Western medicine, physiotherapy means different procedures. In English-speaking countries, this is exercise therapy for recovery from surgery, injury and past illnesses.

In Russia, physiotherapy is understood as the effect of microcurrents, magnets and mud therapy. Physiotherapy in otorhinolaryngology is a common direction. But if earlier patients were offered to “disinfect” the nasal mucosa with the help of a blue Minin lamp, then electrophoresis with Lidaza is still used for exudative otitis media. This is a procedure in which a cotton swab moistened with the Lidaza enzyme preparation is inserted into the ear canal. With the help of microcurrents, the drug must penetrate inside and dilute the liquid.

However, there is no evidence of the effectiveness of this method. The same as with treatment with mud, magnets and salt in caves. But side effects are quite possible.

I’ll give you an example. With laryngitis – inflammation of the larynx – inhalation is often prescribed. The patient is offered to breathe mineral water or saline. But it has been proven that inhalations do not cure laryngitis in either adults or children. But they add excess fluid to the bronchi and alveoli. Because of this, it is more difficult for the patient to expectorate and it is difficult to breathe.

Another frequently prescribed procedure is laryngeal infusions: the injection of hormones into the vocal cords. The method promises a quick restoration of the voice. But this method is dangerous: injection can provoke a spasm, which sometimes ends in asphyxia (suffocation).

Instead of these dangerous and complex approaches to the treatment of laryngitis, evidence-based medicine methods are used: maintaining voice rest, drinking plenty of water and humidifying the air in the room. If you urgently need to get rid of hoarseness – start a course of corticosteroids. They help reduce swelling and inflammation.

X-ray of paranasal sinuses

Previously, with any suspicion of sinusitis, the patient underwent an x-ray of the paranasal sinuses. This is not the most reliable method: not all angles are visible in the pictures, and any darkening was interpreted in favor of sinusitis. But the darkening of the sinuses indicates the reaction of the mucosa to a runny nose.

Whereas the diagnosis of “sinusitis” can be made as a result of examination and questioning of the patient. About sinusitis is evidenced by the duration of the disease, the presence of high fever, pain in the head and a number of other signs. If the otolaryngologist doubts the diagnosis, for example, when the nose is healthy on examination, but the sinuses hurt, he will prescribe not an X-ray, but a CT scan. This is a more informative method that allows you to see the most important thing – the sphenoid sinus. This is necessary to exclude deadly thrombosis of the cavernous sinus.

Beckman’s adenotom

Blind adenoid removal

The pharyngeal tonsils perform a protective function: they prevent the entry of pathogenic microorganisms into the body. But sometimes, due to a strong immune response to infections, the tonsils grow. In this state, they are called adenoids. They can grow and close the entrance to the auditory tube, after which the child will lose his hearing. Therefore, in ENT practice, a procedure for removing adenoids is common.

Previously, it was carried out like this: the child sat in a chair so that he would not twitch, tied his legs and arms and held his head. The surgeon inserted Beckman’s adenotome, an instrument with a metal ring at the end, which was invented over 100 years ago, into the nasal passage. And then pulled out the adenoids. This tool and technique was used until the 2010s.

Then, to remove the adenoids, they began to use a shaver – a thin tube with a cutter at the end. He cuts off the adenoids, then the surface is cauterized with a coagulator. The procedure is carried out under anesthesia. But the main innovation is the endoscope – a tube with a camera that displays the patient’s nasopharynx on a large screen. The endoscope allows not to operate blindly, but to remove tissue pointwise.

Thanks to endoscopes, doctors saw the unsightly consequences of blindly removing adenoids. For example, rough scars on injured pipe rolls. Because of them, the patient is more likely to get acute or exudative otitis media. In addition, endoscopes have increased diagnostic capabilities in medicine.

The doctor inserts an endoscope to diagnose ENT diseases

Hormone injections

Previously, doctors believed that injections were more targeted at fighting the disease. Therefore, intranasal blockades were popular – injections with hormonal drugs such as dexamethasone or hydrocortisone. They helped reduce the volume of mucous in the nasal cavity.

Now doctors prefer sprays: mometasone, fluticasone or budesonide. They proved to be much more effective than injections. Hormones, if they are injected inside, are absorbed too intensively: up to 80% of the drug is absorbed into the blood and systemically affects the body.