How To Get Rid Of Mucus In The Nose In South Africa
What is Mucus?
Mucus is the gelatinous, watery or slippery fluid made by mucous membranes in the body, often noticeable when you blow your nose during a cold.
How To Get Rid Of Mucus In The Nose In South Africa
1. Keeping the air moist.
Dry air irritates the nose and throat, causing more mucus to form as a lubricant. Placing a cool mist humidifier in the bedroom can promote better sleep, keeping the nose clear and preventing a sore throat.
2. Drinking plenty of fluids.
The body needs to stay hydrated to keep mucus thin. When a person is sick with a cold, drinking extra fluids can thin the mucus and help the sinuses to drain. People with seasonal allergies may also find that staying hydrated helps to avoid congestion.
3. Applying a warm, wet washcloth to the face.
This can be a soothing remedy for a pounding sinus headache. Inhaling through a damp cloth is a quick way to return moisture to the nose and throat. The heat will help to relieve pain and pressure.
4. Keeping the head elevated.
When the buildup of mucus is particularly bothersome, it may help to sleep propped up on a few pillows or in a reclining chair. Lying flat can increase discomfort, because it may feel as though mucus is collecting at the back of the throat.
5. Not suppressing a cough.
It may be tempting to use suppressants when experiencing a nagging, phlegm-filled cough. However, coughing is the body’s way of keeping secretions out of the lungs and throat. Use cough syrups sparingly, if at all.
6. Discreetly getting rid of phlegm.
When phlegm rises from the lungs into the throat, the body is likely trying to remove it. Spitting it out is healthier than swallowing it.
7. Using a saline nasal spray or rinse.
A saline spray or irrigator can clear out mucus and allergens from the nose and sinuses. Look for sterile sprays that contain only sodium chloride, and be sure to use sterile or distilled water when irrigating.
8. Gargling with salt water.
This can soothe an irritated throat and may help to clear away residual mucus. One teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water can be gargled several times per day.
9. Using eucalyptus.
Eucalyptus products have used to subdue coughs and reduce mucus for years. They are usually applied directly to the chest. A few drops of eucalyptus oil can also be added to a diffuser or a warm bath to help clear the nose.
10. Not smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke.
Smoking and secondhand smoke cause the body to produce more phlegm and mucus.
11. Minimizing the use of decongestants.
While they dry secretions and can alleviate a runny nose, decongestants may make it harder to get rid of phlegm and mucus.
12. Taking the right medicine.
Medications known as expectorants can help to thin mucus and phlegm, making them easier to cough or blow out. However, check to make sure that these medications do not also contain decongestants.
13. Keeping allergies in check.
Seasonal allergies can lead to a runny or stuffy nose, as well as excess mucus and phlegm.
14. Avoiding irritants.
Chemicals, fragrances, and pollution can irritate the nose, throat, and lower airways. This causes the body to produce more mucus.
15. Keeping track of food reactions.
Some foods can cause reactions that mimic seasonal allergies. They may cause the nose to run and the throat to itch, leading to excess mucus. Make a record of any foods that trigger an increase in phlegm or mucus.
16. Avoiding alcohol and caffeine.
Both substances lead to dehydration if consumed in excess. When mucus and phlegm are an issue, drink plenty of warm, non-caffeinated beverages.
17. Taking a hot bath or shower.
Time spent in a steam-filled bathroom will help to loosen and clear mucus in the nose and throat. Allowing hot water to pulse on the face can also bring relief from sinus pressure.
18. Blowing the nose gently.
It may be tempting to keep blowing until thick mucus comes out. However, doing so too forcefully may hurt the sinuses, leading to pain, pressure, and possibly infection.
19. Eating plenty of fruit.
One study found that a diet rich in fiber from fruit, and possibly soy, may lead to fewer respiratory problems linked to phlegm.
20. Avoiding foods that cause acid reflux.
Acid reflux can lead to an increase in phlegm and mucus. People prone to heartburn should avoid trigger foods and ask a doctor about proper management.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).
What loosens mucus in the nose?
Drinking enough liquids, especially warm ones can help with mucus flow. Water and other liquids can loosen your congestion by helping your mucus move. Try sipping liquids, like juice, clear broths, and soup. Other good liquid choices include decaffeinated tea, warm fruit juice, and lemon water.
How do I know if its sinus or Covid?
For instance, a runny nose can be a symptom of COVID-19. However, there are some symptoms unique to COVID-19. Gastrointestinal issues, fever, body aches and a new loss of taste or smell are not typical of allergies or a sinus infection.
Why is my nose constantly blocked?
Nasal congestion can be caused by anything that irritates or inflames the nasal tissues. Infections such as colds, flu or sinusitis and allergies are frequent causes of nasal congestion and runny nose. Sometimes a congested and runny nose can be caused by irritants such as tobacco smoke and car exhaust.
Does Covid produce clear mucus?
Mucus (Hint: The color matters) If you’re producing mucus, it’s likely allergies or cold and flu symptoms, and not a COVID infection. A runny nose and mucus is typically clear in allergy sufferers, Rajani said. Yellow or green-colored mucus likely points to a viral condition, such as the flu.
Why do I have so much mucus?
Excess mucus has many potential causes. They can be long- or short-term. Conditions that can contribute to excess mucus include allergies, asthma, and bronchitis. Smoking and conditions like COPD and cystic fibrosis can also cause this symptom.
What fruits break up mucus?
Other fruits I love to support immune function are berries and citrus fruits especially grapefruit. Grapefruit is wonderful for breaking down excessive mucus and luckily is in season right now. I also love lemon or lime juice in warm water to hydrate (which helps expel mucus) and support immune function.
What herbs are good for removing mucus?
Eucalyptus. Eucalyptus is used in many cough lozenges, inhalants, and vaporizers to loosen mucus and ease congestion. You can use it by placing two drops of eucalyptus oil in water and using it for steam inhalation. But, eucalyptus oil is toxic when consumed orally.
Do bananas cause mucus?
Banana is healthy and energizing but should be avoided at night during winter only if the person is suffering from cough and cold or other respiratory ailments as it causes irritation when it comes in contact with mucus or phlegm.
Is Honey Good for mucus?
Honey may also reduce inflammation in the bronchial tubes (airways within the lungs) and help break up mucus that is making it hard for you to breathe. Mixing 1 teaspoon with 8 ounces of hot water; have this two or three times a day.
What causes mucus?
It’s produced by mucous membranes that run from your nose to your lungs. Every time you breathe in, allergens, viruses, dust, and other debris stick to the mucus, which is then passed out of your system. But sometimes, your body can produce too much mucus, which requires frequent throat clearing.