10 Home Remedies to Ease Sinus Congestion
January 18, 2024
Feeling stuffed up? Here are a few at-home tips you can do to help drain your sinuses.
In This Healthy Insight:
- Tips to Ease Sinus Congestion
- What To Do If Congestion Persists
Tips to Ease Sinus Congestion
1. Drink Up
Drink plenty of water to help thin mucus and keep the nasal passages moist. When you’ve reached your tolerance for water, try warm liquids, herbal teas or clear broths to soothe and drain sinuses.
2. Take a Deep Breath
Inhale steam by taking a hot shower or using a bowl of hot water. Place your face over the bowl, cover your head with a towel, and breathe in the steam.
3. Rinse and Repeat
Use a saline nasal spray or a neti pot to rinse your nasal passages, repeating as necessary. This helps flush out mucus and reduce sinus congestion.
4. Warm It Up
Apply a warm compress to your face, particularly around the nose and eyes. This can help soothe sinuses and promote drainage.
5. Stay Away From Irritants
(No, not annoying people) but avoid environmental irritants like smoke and strong odors that can worsen sinus congestion.
6. Prop Yourself Up
Sleep with an extra pillow to elevate your head to help sinuses drain.
7. Get Spicy
Consuming spicy foods containing ingredients like chili peppers or horseradish can help open nasal passages.
8. Humidify
Use a humidifier in your room to add moisture to the air. Dry air can make your sinus congestion worse.
9. Massage It Away
Gently massage your sinuses to promote drainage. Use your fingertips to apply gentle pressure in a circular motion on your forehead, cheeks, and around your nose.
10. Take It Easy
Allow your body to rest and recover. Taking it easy can help your immune system fight off the underlying cause of sinus congestion.
If sinus congestion persists or is accompanied by severe symptoms, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. They can help determine the underlying cause of congestion and recommend what’s right for you.
