Catarrh can become infected very quickly. It is enough that we are from time to time in larger groups of people – e.g. at work, school or tram – and we have contact with sneezing people. Often, even after the cold or flu is cured, the runny nose remains. We usually underestimate this troublesome symptom, hoping that it will go away on its own. A prolonged runny nose can be a sign of sinusitis, so if it lasts unusually long, you should see a doctor.
There are over 200 viruses that cause rhinitis. It is transmitted through droplets, i.e. through contact with someone who sneezes. Every year, a runny nose is one of the most common autumn and winter ailments. Although it is quite a troublesome and tiring symptom, it is one of our body’s methods of fighting infection. Blowing your nose regularly removes not only secretions but also viruses. That is why nasal sprays and rhinitis tablets are recommended for use in situations where we must be active and cannot afford a “runny nose”. However, they should only be used for 3 to 4 days, longer use may prevent the virus from being completely removed from the body.
Home remedies for stuffy nose:
- To avoid skin dryness and wounds that may appear as a result of constantly rubbing it with a tissue, use a vitamin ointment (e.g. marjoram) or a protective cream. Lubricate the wings of the nose first of all.
- Relax in a hot bath with added oils. The best will be: mint, eucalyptus, pine. If the runny nose is only the first symptom of the disease, warm baths can eliminate or alleviate its course. In this way, you will warm up the body and open the nostrils. If you are not a fan of bathing or simply do not have access to a bathtub, soak your feet in hot water with salt. Then rub your feet with camphor ointment, put on warm socks, get under the blanket and rest.
- Drink plenty of fluids – water, tea, juices. It is important to constantly hydrate the body, which at the same time dilutes the secretion and facilitates its removal.
- Eat hot food (the famous broth for colds), garlic (it is a natural antibiotic), parsley (add it, for example, to sandwiches).
- Wash your hands often, especially after blowing your nose and handling dirty tissues.
- Take vitamin C. Although it does not have a great effect on eliminating a runny nose, it strengthens the body and resistance to diseases. In addition, it seals and strengthens the weakened walls of the blood vessels of the nasal mucosa.
- Massage your face with your index fingers, pressing the outer edges of your nostrils for 30 seconds. Repeat this 3 to 4 times.
- Drink apple cider vinegar (a teaspoon of the mixture in a glass of water), which thins the mucus.
- Humidify the air. For this purpose, you can purchase a special air humidifier. Staying in “dry” rooms intensifies the symptoms of runny nose and sinusitis.