As an alternative, let a hot shower run while you simply sit in the bathroom with the door closed. A cool-mist humidifier can also help clear up a stuffy nose, so run one in your bedroom at night if you can. Make sure to clean it weekly. If you don’t own a cool-mist humidifier, you can explore several options for purchase here.
Follow the instructions on the packaging. Typically, you’ll administer 1-2 sprays or drops every 2 to 3 hours. Alternatively, use a neti pot to flush out your sinuses. However, make sure you never fill a neti pot or create a saline solution with tap water as it may contain bacteria or amoebas that can cause life-threatening illness. Also, keep your neti pot very clean by washing it after each use. You can find saline spray options for purchase here and neti pot options here.
These are often marketed as anti-snoring strips–you can find options available for purchase here.
It might take a few rounds of reheating the washcloth for you to feel any benefit, so be patient. Try using a compress while you do something relaxing, like listening to music or watching TV.
If you have a cold, a decongestant can ease the swelling and inflammation in your nasal passages, leading to easier breathing. You can take this medication orally, as a pill or liquid, or use a decongestant nasal spray. Be aware that decongestant nasal sprays are only recommended for 3 consecutive days of use due to the risk of rebound congestion, while oral decongestants can be taken for up to 5 to 7 days. You can find decongestant options online for purchase here. If you’re suffering from allergies, such as hay fever, get an antihistamine, such as Claritin, Zyrtec, or Allegra, or the generic equivalent of one of these medications. An antihistamine will both relieve congestion and take care of other symptoms, like sneezing. Be aware that some antihistamines can make you feel tired. Look for non-drowsy options to take during the day and wait to drive or use heavy machinery until you see how the antihistamine affects you. Flonase and Nasacort sprays, which contain corticosteroids, may also be helpful if your nose is congested due to allergies. Corticosteroids help reduce inflammation.
Comfortably hot beverages are especially helpful for thinning out mucus. Avoid sugary beverages like juice and soda since they don’t contain any helpful nutrients or electrolytes your body needs. Sugar may also prevent your immune system from functioning properly. Stay away from caffeine, such as in coffee, as it can be dehydrating.
If you typically sleep on your stomach or side, try sleeping on your back and elevating your head while you’re sick.
If you need help to quit smoking, speak to your doctor or contact the Quitline at 1-800-QUIT-NOW.
To make your own saline solution, mix 1/4 teaspoon (1. 42 grams) of non-iodized salt with 1⁄2 cup (120 mL) of filtered or distilled lukewarm water. If you only have tap water on hand, boil it and allow it cool before using to make a saline solution. Otherwise, you could introduce bacteria or amoebas into your child’s sinus cavity, which, while rare, can be life-threatening.
Alternative, roll a tissue into a small cone and swab it around the nostrils. Do not insert cotton swabs into an infant’s nose.
However, if you don’t have a humidifier, you can run a hot shower and sit with your baby in the bathroom (not the shower itself) so the steam loosens up the mucus. This is especially helpful if your child has a croupy cough. [13] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Never elevate your child’s head using a pillow as this can increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
Keep in mind that you can develop a bacterial infection due to sinus drainage, so what started out as a stuffy nose due to allergies or a cold can turn into a bacterial infection. If this happens, your doctor can prescribe a round of antibiotics that will have you feeling better much quicker than going without treatment. Rarely, you may experience blood-tinged or red discharge. If this happens, see your doctor immediately.
Fever over 101. 3 °F (38. 5 °C) Sore throat Runny or stuffy nose Congestion Headaches Body aches Fatigue
Your doctor may advise you to continue caring for your baby at home. If your baby has a fever above 100. 4 °F (38. 0 °C), ask your doctor for a same-day appointment or take your baby to an urgent care center. A fever indicates that they may have an infection, so it’s best to make sure your baby doesn’t need extra treatment.
