A stuffed nose generally occurs if the mucous membranes within the nose becomes swollen and inflamed. It might be due to thick, excess mucus in the nose. If the sinuses are inflamed, it can worsen a stuffed nose.
Nasal rinses for a stuffed nose
A saline spray or rinse can help ease a stuffed nose. This should be used 3 times throughout the day to irrigate the nose and sinuses, clean the nasal passages as well as increase the effectiveness of nasal spray medications.
You can prepare a saline nasal rinse by combining 3 teaspoons of non-iodized salt with a teaspoon of baking soda in a cup of distilled or boiled water in lukewarm temperature. Utilize a bulb syringe to irrigate each nostril.
Humidifiers
A humidifier can be used to moisten the nasal passages, relieve congestion and ease breathing difficulties from upper respiratory infections. The added moisture in the air can thin the mucus in the nose that limits breathing. Make sure that the humidifier is regularly cleaned to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi.
Increased intake of fluids
Encourage the individual to drink more fluids especially chicken soup, soup broth and hot tea to thin the mucus and make the individual feel better.
Considerations to bear in mind
If the individual has a viral infection such as common cold or sinusitis that does not settle in around 10 days, it might be an indication of a bacterial infection. In case the symptoms do not subside within 10 days, a doctor should be seen if antibiotics, allergy medications or other drugs are needed to ease a stuffed nose.