Discover some simple remedies to relieve excess mucus and nasal congestion.

A series of membranes around the nose, eyes and cheeks contain mucus which heat and moisturise the air we breathe and filter the germs from outside. However, having a congested nose prevents proper drainage, meaning the mucus can build up and stagnate, thus making it difficult to breathe and causing sinusitis.

This inflammation of the mucosa which surrounds the paranasal sinuses (spaces around the nasal cavity) may be caused by bacteria, fungus, a virus or an allergy. Excess mucus and congested nostrils allow bacteria and microorganisms to reproduce and cause discomfort. This process causes the nasal mucous to redden and solidify, often expelling yellow or green mucus.

Sinusitis can cause a range of discomforts, such as pain and pressure behind the eyes and in the maxillofacial area, nasal congestion and a runny nose, fever, headache, and coughing.

Tips for treating inflammation

1. Drink plenty of fluids

Drinking at least two litres of water (or juice) a day will help treat this inflammation by making the mucus in the paranasal sinuses more fluid and therefore easier to eliminate, helping to drain the nasal cavities and reduce the inflammation.

2. Humidify the air

Dry air is not suitable for a clogged nose. Humidifiers or plates with water can be used to increase environmental humidity. Smoky and dusty places should also be avoided.

3. Clean the nostrils

Keeping the nose clean and clear is necessary in order to filter the air we breathe. Washing the nostrils with seawater will facilitate hygiene and also help prevent and relieve rhinitis, sinusitis and congestion. Thanks to it being rich in trace elements, seawater has antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and moisturising effects.

4. Eat well

It is important to eat in moderation during the infection, ensuring our daily diet includes fruit (rich in antioxidants such as vitamin C), whole-grain bread (such as rye or oats), legumes, lightly cooked vegetables, and hot soup. It is best to avoid flour-based products, dairy products, sugars and fried food, which can cause an increase in mucus.

5. Rub with essential oils

An effective home-made remedy is to hand-rub the sides of the nose and the nasal bridge with 2 or 3 drops of essential ginger, eucalyptus and rosemary oil, trying not to touch the eye area. This type of oil has anti-inflammatory, antiseptic (reducing infection), expectorant (helping expel secretions) and decongestant properties, which immediately help normal, fluid breathing.

6. Humidify the nasal sinuses

This can be done by covering your head with a towel and breathing in the steam from a bowl of hot water, or by placing damp gauzes or pads on your face. Moreover, hot showers create a lot of steam which, when inhaled, is highly beneficial for decongestion.

Although most inflammation of the sinuses disappears within a week, antibiotic treatment may be necessary, which can take up to 14 days. See your doctor if you have any symptoms.

This post is also available in: Spanish