A runny nose is the result of excess nasal mucus production, leading to watery nasal secretions discharging from the nostrils or sometimes dripping down into the throat. The causes of a runny nose may vary but mostly the major culprit is flu or cold, or it can also be the result of allergies or bacterial or viral infections. There are simple steps you can take to feel better and hope for a faster recovery!
1- Drink plenty of fluids or hot teas
Drinking fluids and staying hydrated will be helpful in case of having a runny nose. Hot tea, simple chicken broth or milk can have a soothing or warming effect. It ensures mucus to become in a runny consistency and is easy to expel. Otherwise, it may be thick and sticky, which congests the nose even further. Alcoholic beverages and coffee like drinks should be avoided.
2- Facial steam or hot bath
Inhaling hot steam bath has been proved to help treat a runny nose. A survey has proved that using steam inhalation is quite effective and reduces illness recovery time. For this you need heat clean water in a clean pot on your stove. Heat it just enough so that steam is created, place your face above the steam for 15 — 20 minutes, taking deep breaths through your nose, then blow your nose afterward to get rid of mucus.
Essential oils like Eucalyptus, peppermint, pine, rosemary, sage, spearmint, tea tree or dried herbs are great to add into your facial water steam.
3- Hot shower
Taking hot shower would prove to be a quick relief just like a hot tea or facial steam. It can magically alleviate a runny and stuffy nose.
4- Apply a warm compress
Putting a warm compress over your nose and forehead can help relieve sinus pressure and congestion. In case of having no compress, you can use a piece of cloth moistened in warm water and then applying it to the face several times a day. It can help stop your runny nose.
5- Getting plenty of sleep or rest
Taking rest or sleep is equally beneficial for a number of physical problems as it can heal our body and make its natural process work properly. Resting will also give you a much-needed break from blowing your nose.
6- Neti pots
Neti pots are small teapot-like containers with a spout. Warm saline or saltwater solution is added to the pot. The solution is then poured through one nostril and out the other. This rinses out your sinuses quite thoroughly. It has become a common approach to avoid nasal discomforts or problems.
7- Eating spicy foods
We all know that spices worsen the runny nose but at the same time these spices can possibly help in reducing nasal congestion. Hot spices like pepper, ghost pepper or ginger would be greatly helpful as they produce heat and dilate the passageways in the body to relieve the issue.
8- Blow Your Nose
It’s better than sniffling mucus back into your head. But make sure you do it the right way. If you blow hard, you’ll send germ-carrying phlegm back into your ear passages, which can lead to an earache.
The best technique? Press a finger over one nostril while you blow gently to clear the other.
9- Gargle With Warm Salt Water
It moistens your sore or scratchy throat and brings temporary relief. Try a half teaspoon of salt dissolved in 8 ounces of warm water four times a day.
To calm the tickle in your throat, try a gargle made from tea. Or use one that’s got honey in it.
10- Use Hot Packs on Your Sinuses
You can buy reusable ones at a drugstore. Or make your own. Take a damp washcloth and heat it for 30 seconds in a microwave. Test the temperature first to make sure it’s right for you.
11- Put an Extra Pillow Under Your Head
Do this at night when you sleep to help relieve congested nasal passages. If the angle is too awkward, place the pillows between the mattress and the box springs to create a more gradual slope.
So basically managing a runny nose can easily be treated through remedies that are readily available in the kitchen. If the problem still persists seek medical assistance of our expert doctors and specialists. You can book an appointment with our top ENT specialists from Lahore, Karachi and Islamabad through oladoc.com. You can also call our helpline at 042-3890-0939 for assistance to find the right doctor for your health concerns.
