Nasal congestion is a common symptom frequently caused by nasal allergies (allergic rhinitis). Over time, inflammatory conditions such as allergies cause swelling and enlargement of the turbinates, which eventually decreases the flow of air through the nose. Nasal congestion often alternates sides several times daily (this is referred to as the nasal cycle). Other causes such as severe deviation of the nasal septum, nasal polyps, or a nasal mass can cause fixed, or constant, nasal congestion. As nasal breathing is impaired, snoring is often exacerbated. Patients who depend upon CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) for relief of their obstructive sleep apnea often find it difficult to tolerate the mask at night when they have nasal congestion, as passive airflow is significant reduced when the nose is obstructed. Knowing the cause of nasal congestion is key to selecting an appropriate treatment.

Remedies for Nasal Congestion
There are several home remedies that can help to relieve nasal congestion. One of the most popular and common home treatments for a stuffy nose is a vapor rub. The menthol present in the vapor rub helps to open up the nasal passages. A small amount may be rubbed on to the chest and around the nostrils in order to ease congestion. There are many different types of vapor rub available in the market. Sipping on hot liquids also helps to reduce congestion in the nose. The steam arising from the hot liquids helps to soothe and open up the airways. Warm herbal teas or hot chicken soup are ideal for relieving a stuffy nose. Avoid drinking caffeine as it could worsen congestion. Nasal congestion is often aggravated while sleeping, as lying down worsens the stuffy feeling. Sleeping with the head elevated is helpful as it enables drainage of the nasal passage.

For congestion that occurs due to sinus infections, one of the best remedies is to place a warm compress on the eyes or face. This helps to reduce discomfort associated with sinusitis or allergies. You may place a moist and hot towel over the aching areas. Steam inhalation is highly effective in easing nasal congestion. Boil some water in a large pan and inhale the steam rising from it. Drape a towel around the head so that the steam remains trapped within. You can also add a few drops of peppermint or eucalyptus oil to the water. The steam from a hot shower is also beneficial in alleviating congestion. A less known, but effective home remedy for nasal congestion is tomato tea. It provided the body with vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system. Add a teaspoon of minced garlic, half a teaspoon of hot sauce and a teaspoon of lemon juice to a cup of tomato juice. Warm up the mixture and then consume it. The garlic will help to prevent infection and the hot sauce will enable drainage of the nasal passage.

Oil of oregano can also be used to alleviate congestion in the respiratory tract. Add a few drops of the essential oil to fruit juice and consume thrice daily. You can also add essential oils to steaming water for aromatherapy steam inhalation. Tea tree oil is known to be beneficial in alleviating congestion in the nasal passage. Add about eight drops of tea tree oil to two cups of boiling water and inhale the steam. To encourage drainage of mucus from the nasal passage, you can also add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and ? teaspoon of salt to approximately eight ounces of warm water. Release a few drops of the solution into the nose using an eyedropper. Remember to keep the head back and take deep breaths. After a few minutes, blow your nose to drain the mucus. Another remedy for congestion is to place some powdered carom seeds in a cloth and keep it near your pillow. This is believed to help clear up a congested nose.