Nasal Congestion Treatments

Nasal congestion is a stuffy or blocked feeling in your nose. It is caused by a variety of circumstances. Some of these illnesses resolve on their own, while others may necessitate treatment.

There are many options that can assist reduce nasal congestion. Sprays, pills, and medications are also available over the counter or on prescription, which may make you feel more at ease. Wherever possible, the underlying cause of the nasal congestion will be addressed.

Steam inhalation

Be extremely cautious not to burn yourself with boiling water. Set a large bowl or basin on a table with hot water from a kettle. Place your face over the bowl for 5 or 10 minutes and breathe normally. You can also purchase a steam cup from a pharmacy. This is a disposable plastic cup with a lid and a mask. You fill the cup with boiling water, put on the lid and mask, and then breathe in the steam via the mask. The bathroom is the safest place for small children to inhale steam. After closing the door, turn on the hot shower and/or hot taps. 

Salt water 

For a brief time, salt water (saline) may be useful in clearing a blocked nose. Saline drops can be found at the pharmacy or obtained on prescription. There are also saline sprays and solutions that seek to clean out the nasal airways. All of them make the crud in the nose more liquid, allowing it to drain more easily.

Vapors, rubs, and pastilles containing menthol

There are various over-the-counter medications for nasal congestion that contain substances such as menthol or eucalyptus oil. The most well-known are Vicks® and Olbas®, but there are other more that act in the same way. They come in the form of vapor rubs, which you rub on your chest to inhale the vapor, and oils, which you mix with hot water for steam inhalations. Sucking throat sweets is also an option. These soothe a sore throat and produce a vapor that helps remove the nasal congestion.

Tablets and syrups with decongestant properties

Decongestants in the form of tablets or syrups are regarded to be safer to take for an extended period of time if necessary. The most common are pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine. They are available without a prescription and over the counter. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before using them, as they are not appropriate for everyone and may interfere with other medications.

Decongestant drops and sprays

Decongestant drops and sprays are quite efficient for nasal congestion and help you swiftly unclog your nose. They should, however, only be used for a maximum of 5-7 days. If you use them for a long period of time, you might experience rebound nasal congestion when you stop using them.