How Can We Relieve a Stuffy Nose?

If you haven’t already, you may want to take a look at “How Can We Relieve a Running Nose?” A simple revision: drink plenty of warm water, shower with warm water, use a humidifier and sleep with your head elevated. Recently, I discovered a method by chance in relieving my stuffy nose. I simply held my breath for an extended period of time, and gosh! I was able to breathe through my nose again, albeit only for the next 10 seconds. I repeated the process a couple of times and before I know it, I was fast asleep. I soon discovered that I was actually doing a nose-unblocking exercise. I’ve got zero idea on whether it works for everyone, but I believe it is worth a try. Here is an improved version of the nose-unblocking exercise which will help to relieve your stuffy nose:

Step 1:
With your mouth closed, pinch your nose with your fingers to hold your breath.

Step 2:
Gently nod your head or sway your body until you feel that you cannot hold your breath any longer. It is advisable to go easy on the first few attempts and increase your pace each time.

Step 3:
Repeat Step 1 and 2 till you feel better.

How It Works:
Holding your breath helps to raise carbon dioxide levels in the nasal passages which soothes nasal membrane tissue and reduces inflammation. Gentle nodding helps to increase circulation to the sinuses. More importantly, when we breathe through our mouth (not encouraged), the carbon dioxide levels in our blood stream decreases. This reduction in CO2 levels causes an increase in mucous secretion and constriction of the airways. The nose is part of the airway system and tends to be the first part to become constricted. Hence, when we do the aforementioned nose breathing exercise, it temporarily increases the carbon dioxide levels in the blood, which in turn opens the nasal passages.

Note that it is common for the nose to become blocked again shortly after doing this exercise. This is due to the fact that the body has not been accustomed to the increase in carbon dioxide levels. However, with sufficient time and regular practice of breathing exercises, the body will adapt quicker to higher levels of carbon dioxide to better regulate the nose. The ultimate question still remains: will this remedy work for everyone? Nobody knows.