CONDITION: Nasal Congestion (Rhinitis)

 

OVERVIEW: Otherwise known as a stuffy nose, nasal congestion can be quite bothersome and can cause headaches, pain, and disturb sleep. It occurs when tissues and blood vessels in the nose become inflamed and cause discomfort.

 

SYMPTOMS:

• Nasal discharge
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Watery eyes

 

CAUSES: Nasal congestion can be caused from many conditions, including seasonal allergies, the common cold, the flu, upper respiratory infections, and structural issues like a deviated septum or nasal polyps.

 

WHAT MAKES IT WORSE:

• Dry air
• Exposure to allergens (dust, pets, pollen, etc.)
• Stress

 

COMMON THERAPIES: Common over-the-counter methods to counter nasal congestion include cough suppressants, sore throat lozenges, and syrups—many of which contain ingredients you can't pronounce and only address the symptoms, not the cause.

 

NATURAL INGREDIENTS WE USE:

Eucalyptus Essential Oil: Acts as a decongestant and expectorant Lavender Essential Oil: Has antimicrobial and anti-fungal properties

Peppermint Essential Oil: Acts as a decongestant & eases headaches

Tea Tree Essential Oil: Has broad antimicrobial actions and decreases inflammation

 

LIFESTYLE GUIDE:

• Keep the air moist to help soothe nasal passages by using a humidifier or taking a shower.
• Use a HEPA home air filtration system to help decrease allergens and keep the air clean.
• Try a Netti Pot. Use sterile water and mix it with saline for irrigation.
• Sleep at an angle by propping up pillows to improve breathing.
• Relieve congestion with our plant-based Breathe-Ease Balm.

 

Resources

“Nasal Congestion: More than a Stuffy Nose.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 11 Jan. 2018, www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/nasal-congestion/basics/definition/sym-20050644.

Naclerio, Robert. “Pathophysiology of Nasal Congestion.” International Journal of General Medicine, 2010, p. 47., doi:10.2147/ijgm.s8088.

Meltzer, Eli. “Treatment of Congestion in Upper Respiratory Diseases.” International Journal of General Medicine, 2010, p. 69., doi:10.2147/ijgm.s8184.