How to Improve a Stuffy Nose

A stuffy nose or nasal congestion due to a cold or other infection can linger for several days or weeks and impact your ability to breathe. But fortunately, there are quick techniques to get rid of a stuffy nose and restore breathing. You can fight nasal congestion with medications, or employ home remedies.

Things You'll Need

• Medication
• Humidifier
• Vitamins

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Instructions

• 1

  Get rid of congestion with a decongestant. Medications are available to promote nasal discharge and relieve a stuffy nose. Visit your local drug store and select a cold, allergy or sinus medication that features a decongestant. Saline nasal sprays are also effective remedies. Take as directed.

• 2

  Use a cool mist humidifier. Increase the moisture in your home with a cool mist humidifier. Dry air can trigger nasal congestion, whereas a humidifier can promote nasal discharge.

• 3

  Apply vapor rub. Apply a medicated vapor rub to your chest to relieve nasal and chest congestion.

• 4

  Thin mucus with water. A build-up of mucus contributes to nasal congestion or a stuffy nose. Increase your intake of fluids to loosen or thin mucus and encourage drainage. Drink eight glasses of water, or consume decaffeinated teas or chicken broth.

• 5

  Take vitamin C. Get rid of a cold or infection fast by increasing your intake of vitamin C. Drink plenty of orange juice or take supplements to improve your immune system.

• 6

  Sit in a steamy room. Relax in a sauna, or take a hot shower to help open your nasal passage and relieve a stuffy nose. The heat and steam from a hot cloth placed over the face may also improve nasal congestion.