Home
Articles
Q&A

30-second recovery method for nasal congestion

Nov 28, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
There is no such thing as a "30-second nasal congestion relief method." Methods to relieve nasal congestion include nasal irrigation, nasal decongestants, applying warm compresses to the bridge of the nose, adjusting sleep position, and increasing environmental humidity. These can be selected based on the cause and severity of the congestion to quickly alleviate breathing difficulties. If nasal congestion lasts more than one week or is accompanied by fever, headache, or thick yellow/green nasal discharge, prompt medical attention is recommended.

There is no such thing as a "nasal congestion relief method in 30 seconds." Methods to relieve nasal congestion include nasal irrigation, nasal decongestants, warm compresses on the nasal bridge, adjusting sleeping positions, and increasing environmental humidity. These can be selected based on the cause and severity of the congestion to quickly alleviate breathing difficulties. If nasal congestion lasts more than one week or is accompanied by fever, headache, or thick yellow/green nasal discharge, prompt medical attention is recommended.

1. Nasal irrigation: Use saline solution or seawater-based nasal spray to rinse the nasal cavity, removing mucus, allergens, and pathogens while reducing mucosal swelling. This method is suitable for nasal congestion caused by various types of rhinitis or the common cold and is gentle and non-irritating.

2. Nasal decongestants: For example, oxymetazoline hydrochloride nasal spray, which works by constricting blood vessels in the nasal mucosa to rapidly relieve congestion. Follow medical advice and do not use continuously for more than 7 days to avoid drug-induced rhinitis or dependency.

3. Warm compress on the nasal bridge: Apply a warm towel at about 40°C to the area around the nasal bridge and sides of the nostrils to improve local blood circulation, soften hardened mucus, and promote nasal airflow. This is especially suitable for infants and individuals with mild congestion.

4. Adjust sleeping position: When experiencing nasal congestion, lying on your side can improve airflow through the lower nostril. For bilateral congestion, slightly elevating the head helps reduce mucosal swelling due to gravity, enhancing breathing comfort during sleep.

5. Increase environmental humidity: Use a humidifier to maintain indoor humidity between 50% and 60%, preventing dryness and crusting of the nasal mucosa, thereby alleviating discomfort from congestion—especially beneficial during dry seasons like autumn and winter or in air-conditioned rooms.

In daily life, maintain nasal hygiene and avoid digging the nose to prevent mucosal injury. Drink plenty of water and eat light meals during colds or rhinitis flare-ups. Avoid exposure to irritants such as smoke and dust, maintain regular sleep patterns, strengthen immunity, and reduce recurrence of nasal congestion.

Related Articles

View All
What are the symptoms of bacterial cold?
Symptoms of bacterial colds include prominent fever, cough with purulent sputum, sore and swollen throat, nasal congestion with yellow nasal discharge, and marked general malaise. Symptoms are often more severe and last longer compared to viral colds. If fever persists for more than 3 days, symptoms worsen, or difficulty breathing occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended. Fever is typically moderate to high, often reaching 38.5°C.
avatar
Dr. Ren Yi
View Full Answer
Is amoxicillin effective for the common cold?
In general, amoxicillin is ineffective for most colds and may only be needed when a cold is complicated by bacterial infection. After catching a cold, symptomatic care should be prioritized, such as drinking plenty of warm water, ensuring adequate rest, and maintaining a light diet. Over-the-counter cold medications can be used to relieve symptoms like nasal congestion and cough. In daily life, maintaining regular sleep patterns and engaging in moderate exercise to boost immunity can help reduce the frequency of colds.
avatar
Dr. Ren Yi
View Full Answer
Can ear blockage after a cold resolve on its own?
In general, whether ear blockage following a cold can resolve on its own depends on the severity of the condition and the individual's recovery ability. If discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended. During a cold, it's important to actively treat the underlying illness and relieve nasal congestion. The nasal passages can be gently cleared to maintain patency. Avoid forceful nose-blowing, which may push nasal secretions into the Eustachian tube.
avatar
Dr. Ren Yi
View Full Answer
Is a low body temperature in the morning a sign of a cold?
If low body temperature in the morning is accompanied by typical cold symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat, and mild cough, it may indicate the onset of a cold. In the early stage of a cold, the body's immune system activates, causing some individuals to experience temporary fluctuations in body temperature and mild chills, which may manifest as lower morning temperatures. This may later progress to fever or worsening symptoms; therefore, assessment should be based on the overall clinical presentation.
avatar
Dr. Ren Yi
View Full Answer
Can people with a cold take Cordyceps militaris?
If after a cold you only have mild nasal congestion and runny nose, without serious discomfort such as fever or sore throat, and if you have previously consumed cordyceps militaris (Jinchanhua) without allergic reactions or gastrointestinal discomfort, consuming a small amount is generally safe. The nutrients in cordyceps militaris may help support physical strength. At this time, when your body's burden is light, moderate consumption usually does not worsen cold symptoms or cause adverse reactions.
avatar
Dr. Sun Lianqing
View Full Answer
Can I still take iron supplements for blood deficiency while having a cold?
If cold symptoms are mild (only slight nasal congestion, no fever) and the person does not usually experience gastrointestinal discomfort such as nausea or bloating when taking iron supplements, iron therapy for anemia can be continued under a doctor's guidance. In such cases, iron absorption is minimally affected, and continuous supplementation helps prevent interruption of anemia improvement due to stopping medication, without significantly worsening cold symptoms.
avatar
Dr. Ren Yi
View Full Answer
Is there a relationship between upper respiratory tract infections and formaldehyde?
If one is exposed to an environment with excessive formaldehyde levels (such as a newly renovated house or areas with substandard furniture) over a prolonged period, formaldehyde can continuously irritate the nasal and pharyngeal mucosa, leading to mucosal congestion and reduced resistance. Under these conditions, exposure to viruses or bacteria makes upper respiratory tract infections more likely, and after infection, mucosal inflammation tends to be more pronounced, resulting in worsened symptoms such as nasal congestion and sore throat.
avatar
Dr. Ren Yi
View Full Answer
Can amoxicillin be taken together with guaifenesin-pseudoephedrine oral solution?
If cold symptoms are accompanied by bacterial infection (such as purulent tonsillitis or bacterial bronchitis) and the patient is not allergic to penicillin antibiotics, these two medications may be used together under a doctor's guidance. Amoxicillin exerts antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, controlling the source of bacterial infection; meanwhile, guaifenesin-pseudoephedrine oral solution helps relieve cold-related symptoms such as nasal congestion and cough. The two medications complement each other, contributing to improved overall condition.
avatar
Dr. Ren Yi
View Full Answer
彩牛养生

Your trusted source for health information and wellness guidance.

Quick Links

Resources

Connect

© 2024 HealthPortal. All rights reserved.