5 Drug-Free Ways to Relieve Sinus Congestion

Do you suffer from sinus congestion? Whether it's caused by seasonal allergies or the common cold, it can affect your quality of life. When you aren't able to breathe easily through your nose, you may have trouble sleeping. Lack of sleep, of course, can have a ripple effect that affects nearly every aspect of your health. The good news is that you can clear up your sinuses using the following drug-free solutions.

#1) Install a Humidifier

You can use a humidifier to relieve sinus congestion. Sinus congestion is often attributed -- at least partly -- to dry sinus cavities. As the mucus in your sinuses evaporates, the surrounding tissue will constrict. As a result, you may struggle to breathe through your nose. With a humidifier, though, your sinuses will remain moist. Humidifiers release water vapor into the air, some of which will enter your sinuses where it keeps the tissue moist.

#2) Stay Physically Active

Unbeknownst to many people, exercise can relieve sinus congestion. Whether it's running, jogging, swimming or lifting weights, exercise helps to break up sinus congestion. As the mucus buildup dislodges from inside your sinuses, you'll be able to breathe through your nose a little easier. Just remember to carry some tissues when you in case your nose begins to run.

#3) Rinse With Saline

Another drug-free way to relieve sinus congestion is to use a saline rinse. Saline is essentially a combination of water and salt. It's used for a variety of applications, including the relief of sinus congestion. Rinsing your sinuses with saline will flush out stubborn buildups of mucus. It may feel slightly uncomfortable at first, but after rinsing your sinuses with saline, you'll feel an instant sense of relief.

#4) Eat Spicy Foods

Have you ever eaten something spicy, only for your sinuses to start running shortly thereafter? Spicy foods are well-known for relieving sinus congestion. It's believed that several spices, including capsaicin, have anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, they'll relieve sinus pressure so that you can breathe a little more easily.

#5) Drink Peppermint Tea

Finally, drinking peppermint tea can help relieve sinus congestion. Peppermint has natural congestion-relieving properties when consumed. Just brew a cup of peppermint tea, and the next time you experience sinus congestion, try drinking it. Not only is peppermint tea delicious; it's good for your sinuses. These are just a few drug-free ways to relieve sinus congestion.