Have you spent one too many days with a runny nose? If nasal congestion has been putting you down, read on.

Nasal congestion is caused by the inflammation of the nasal membranes. The blood vessels that supply blood to the nasal membranes get inflamed, which causes the lining to swell. In most cases, nasal congestion is accompanied by nasal discharge, commonly called ‘a runny nose’. Nasal congestion could be a minor inconvenience to some people, but in rare cases, it can be life-threatening.

Nasal congestion interferes with breathing, speaking, and sleeping. Nasal congestion during sleep can manifest itself in the form of sleep apnoea, snoring, or the individual might experience difficulty in sleeping. This is especially hard on children who would find it hard to concentrate in school in the next few days. Adults could also suffer from performance deficits in their work. Nasal congestion can also interfere with hearing. Apart from the difficulty breathing, nasal congestion can cause headaches, pain in the face, sinusitis, and generalized discomfort.

Nasal congestion can occur due to a variety of causes, ranging from the common cold to severe gastric reflux. Severe nasal congestion relief involves the use of over-the-counter or prescription medication. Some cases also benefit from home remedies.

Causes of Nasal Congestion
Apart from the common cold and influenza, nasal congestion can be caused by hay fever or other conditions like— allergies, a deviated septum, nasal valve collapse, sinusitis, or nasal polyps. In some instances, nasal congestion can turn into a chronic condition.

Severe Nasal Congestion Relief: Treatment Options
The most effective way to get an instantaneous severe nasal congestion relief is to blow your nose. If there’s too much mucus present, this is a fast and effective way to provide temporary relief. Severe nasal congestion relief can be attained by using both medication and homemade remedies. In most cases, nasal congestion doesn’t require specialized care and, can be handled at home.

Here are a few home remedies for severe nasal congestion relief.

Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a great natural decongestant. It is inexpensive and easy to get. Apple cider vinegar is rich in potassium, which helps to break down the nasal mucus and clear it. Apple cider vinegar is too strong, so, dilute 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with 1 tablespoon of raw honey in a cup of hot water. Drink this concoction for a few days for severe nasal congestion relief. You can also dilute equal amounts of apple cider vinegar in water, and use the steam to help clear out your nasal congestion.

Steam Inhalation
Inhaling steam is an old and well-proven remedy for nasal congestion. Steam inhalation lubricates and relaxes the irritated nasal passages. It is also a natural expectorant, which will help you to clear mucus. Steam inhalation is quite simple—Boil some water in a pan, and cover your head with a towel, while you inhale the steam for a few minutes. You can add some peppermint oil to increase the efficacy of the steam.

Spicy food
Have you noticed how spicy food makes your eyes and nose water?
The compound capsaicin is found in chili, and this is what makes it spicy. Capsaicin is a mild irritant that helps in severe nasal congestion relief. Chicken soup with a dash of chillis could be a perfect dish for relief. You can make the chili more palatable by mixing it with raw honey before consuming.

Mentholated Salve
Vapor rubs like Vicks, are a great way to relieve nasal congestion. These rubs combine menthol and camphor, which are two of the best decongestants. These are topical creams that are applied to the chest and throat in a thin layer. Rub the salve in gentle, circular motions for a comforting feeling.

Garlic
Garlic is an excellent antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral agent. Add some extra garlic to your food when you need severe nasal congestion relief. Garlic helps to stop the spread of infection, while you have nasal congestion. It also controls the overproduction of mucus. Additionally, garlic boosts the immune response to germs.
You can eat fresh garlic cloves if you’re able to tolerate the taste, or you can take garlic capsules.

Turmeric
Turmeric is a great anti-inflammatory and antibacterial agent. Turmeric boosts the immune system and helps you fight off infections. It also reduces the inflammation of the nasal blood vessels, and directly reduces the congestion. You can mix a tablespoon of turmeric in a glass of hot milk and drink this twice a day. Don’t add too much turmeric, as the taste can be intense.

Other Tips
Drink plenty of fluids to keep yourself hydrated, doing so can thin out the mucus, which can easily be expelled.
Boost your immunity by consuming foods rich in vitamin C and omega-3 fatty acids. Comforting foods like chicken soup, are a great boost to both your immunity and your mood.
Give yourself plenty of time to rest and keep your head mildly elevated while you sleep. Don’t get too lethargic when you have nasal congestion and try to get a little bit of exercise.