It begins with a sore or itchy throat, a mild headache, constant sneezing, achy joints and muscles, and a feeling of being unwell. Before you know it, you have a cold and just as annoying as a runny nose is a stuffy one, because it makes your head feel heavy and breathing difficult.
“While most people think it is due to an excess production of mucus, a blocked nose, or nasal congestion, is your immune system’s response to the presence of the cold virus in your nasal lining,” according to Paulo Angelo D.C. Catindig, MD, an otorhinolaryngologist of top hospital in the Philippines, Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed).
“As the immune system releases white blood cells to fight the infection, the blood vessels in your nasal passages become inflamed and swell. This narrows the airways, leaving little room for air and mucus to pass through. This results in the stuffiness you experience.”
A common cold lasts between 7 and 10 days; till then, there is no need to suffer through the stuffiness. “Nonprescription decongestants (in pill, syrup, and nasal spray form) work by shrinking swollen vessels in your nasal passages,” says the MakatiMed doctor. “Look for ingredients like phenylephrine or pseudoephedrine but take them only as prescribed in the package or by your doctor.”
A number of home remedies have also been known to help clear clogged nasal passages and make you breathe better:
Nasal inhalers, like the popular Hong Thai and Vicks, combine ingredients like camphor, menthol, and natural herbs that provide a refreshingly cool sensation when inhaled through each nostril. “It does not unclog the nose but rather gives a quick, temporary relief from the stuffiness,” explains Dr. Catindig.
Steam inhalation involves pouring boiled water into a large bowl, placing the bowl on a steady, flat surface, and leaning over the bowl while draping a large towel or blanket over the back of your head to trap the rising moisture. “Keep your eyes closed and your face about 12 inches away from the boiling water,” advises Dr. Catindig. “Inhale slowly through your nose. The steam softens and loosens thick, trapped mucus, allowing you to breathe better.” Again, this does not cure the underlying cause of your cold, but it does relieve you of the congestion, albeit temporarily.
Food is also an effective way to address nasal congestion. “Hot soups and broths soothe a sore throat, and the steam can unclog a stuffy nose,” points out Dr. Catindig. “Add a bit of spice to the soup, as they help thin mucus, lessen nasal swelling, and stimulate sinus drainage.” The steam from hot tea has the same effect; choose flavors with peppermint and ginger, which act as a natural decongestant.
Getting adequate rest can hasten recovery from a cold and the stuffy feeling that comes with it. “Remember, this is just temporary,” says Dr. Catindig. “With these home remedies and a few days at home, you will be breathing better in no time. See your doctor if your cold does not improve after 10 days and if it comes with symptoms like a fever, a persistent sore throat, pain in the ear, and difficulty breathing.”
For more information, please contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and Twitter.
