CLEAR THAT STUFFY NOSE

Are you suffering from a stuffy, blocked nose? We sniffed around for advice on how to deal with it 

- PIP HARRY

SNIFFLING, a runny nose, constant wiping that leaves the skin on the sides of your nose red and tender . . . nasal congestion can really take the fun out of life.

“A blocked nose affects our ability to breathe, sleep, exercise and eat,” says Australian ear, nose and throat specialist Dr Benjamin Cook.

“The main causes are viral upper respiratory infections like colds and flu, allergies and problems with the structure of the nose.”

Here’s a look at the main reasons for a stuffy nose and what you can do about them.

COLDS

Colds cause a stuffy nose by eliciting an immune response which causes the lining of the nose to swell and secrete excess mucus. The nose is trying to clean and protect itself but the trade-off is the sensation of blockage and a runny nose. 

What to do The best treatments are saline sprays or rinses to help clean the nose, followed by short-term use of decongestants such as oxymetazoline sprays and tablets containing phenylephrine. These medications shrink the blood vessels in the nose, allowing easier breathing.

Steam (with or without eucalyptus) can be useful, particularly if there’s a related dry throat or cough. Breathing humidified air helps the lungs receive air that would ordinarily be warmed by a normally functioning nose.

Note Some decongestants can raise blood pressure so use with caution.

HAY FEVER