Stuffy nose after recovering from yang (a common term for recovering from a cold or flu-like illness)

“Post-Yang” generally refers to the period after infection with the novel coronavirus. Nasal congestion following a novel coronavirus infection may be caused by environmental factors, increased secretions, nasal mucosal congestion and swelling, sinusitis, nasal polyps, etc., and can be improved according to different conditions. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention at a hospital and receive treatment under the guidance of a doctor.

1. Environmental factors: If the surrounding environment has dry, cold air or contains many allergens, it may irritate the nasal mucosa and worsen nasal congestion. Maintain indoor air humidity by using a humidifier to keep relative humidity between 40% and 60%. Also ensure proper indoor ventilation and avoid exposure to allergens.

2. Increased secretions: After infection, nasal secretions significantly increase. If these secretions are not expelled promptly, they can block the nasal passages and cause nasal congestion. Drinking plenty of warm water helps dilute mucus and nasal secretions, making them easier to expel. Gently press on both sides of the nostrils to promote secretion drainage, but avoid forceful nose-blowing to prevent damage to the nasal mucosa.

3. Nasal mucosal congestion and swelling: Infection with the novel coronavirus can trigger an inflammatory response in the nasal mucosa, leading to congestion and swelling that obstructs the nasal passages and causes nasal blockage. It is recommended to rinse the nasal cavity with normal saline or hypertonic saline. Applying a warm towel to the nose may also help relieve mucosal swelling.

4. Sinusitis: Novel coronavirus infection may trigger sinusitis. Inflammation within the sinuses leads to nasal mucosal swelling and increased secretions, resulting in nasal congestion, often accompanied by symptoms such as runny nose and headache. Patients may follow medical advice to use medications such as mometasone furoate nasal spray, eucalyptus oil and pinene enteric-coated soft capsules, or amoxicillin-clavulanate potassium tablets for treatment.

5. Nasal polyps: For patients who already have nasal polyps, infection with the novel coronavirus may exacerbate inflammation of the nasal mucosa, worsening polyp-related symptoms and causing more severe nasal obstruction. It is recommended to use medications such as budesonide nasal spray, montelukast sodium tablets, or clarithromycin sustained-release tablets under medical supervision to alleviate symptoms.

In daily life, it's important to develop healthy habits, ensure sufficient sleep, avoid staying up late, and maintain a positive mood while avoiding negative emotions such as anxiety and irritability, all of which contribute to better overall health.