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Dr Gérald Kierzek (Medical Director)
Are you suffering from a cold and tired of having a stuffy nose? Here are 5 tips, shared by Dr. Gérald Kierzek, to be able to breathe properly again.
Having a blocked nose is an unpleasant feeling. It is difficult to breathe properly and is usually accompanied by a feeling of dry mouth and restless nights. To unclog your nose effectively and naturally, here is the sound advice from Dr Gérald Kierzek, emergency doctor and medical director of Doctissimo.
Steam inhalation
“By breathing hot water vapor, you will be able to clear your nasal passages“explains the doctor first.”You can add essential oils like eucalyptus or peppermint for a calming effect”. To do this, nothing could be simpler: all you have to do is put water to boil, before adding a few drops of essential oil.
Nasal washing with saline solution
This second tip is also effective. For that, “use warm saline solution to rinse nostrils” advises Gérald Kierzek. “This will help clear phlegm and reduce congestion“.
Hydration
Another complementary way to clear your nose is to simply drink well. “Drinking plenty of water helps thin the mucus, making it easier to pass out.” reminds our expert. So try to reach 1.5 or even 2 liters of water per day.
Facial massage
“A light massage around the nose and sinuses can stimulate blood circulation and relieve pressure” explains Dr. Kierzek. In a previous article, we shared with you the technique of an American expert on the subject.
Using essential oils
Essential oils such as eucalyptus or tea tree can be inhaled or used in a diffuser for their decongestant properties. “These methods offer natural alternatives to medications and can provide rapid relief from nasal congestion” still believes the emergency doctor.
Beware of nasal vasoconstrictors in case of cold
These natural and risk-free methods can be applied, taking the usual precautions regarding essential oils in particular. On the other hand, medications sold in pharmacies to unclog the nose should be avoided, as recommended by the National Medicines Safety Agency (ANSM).
By definition, a vasoconstrictor drug has the effect of narrowing blood vessels. This vasoconstriction thus has a decongestant effect, reducing cold symptoms. But the molecule used in over-the-counter products is pseudoephedrine, combined with other molecules such as paracetamol or ibuprophen.
Pseudoephedrine has a central action, so if misused, you are exposed to potentially dangerous side effects, such as a stroke or an angina attack.
Slide: 10 remedies to naturally treat a cold