Clear Congestion

All clogged up? Check out these effective DIY ways to escape from Mucus Island.

- BY GINA WAY

At this time of year especially, you may find yourself drowning in a sea of postnasal drip and sinus congestion, and no amount of nose-blowing or phlegmy coughing seems to stem the snot. When being stuffed up makes it harder to breathe or taste, or you develop a sinus infection and the pressure makes you feel as if your skull is being crushed in a vise, it's time to do something other than dab at your nose with a tissue. Almost no one escapes congestion entirely, and it rears its head particularly during sick season and/or if you suffer from environmental or seasonal allergies. Thankfully, there are things you can try at home that may help you find relief.

Congestion happens when your nasal lining makes excess mucus. Despite the yuck factor, the goopy stuff isn’t all bad. Some amount of it is healthy—in fact, the body cranks out about a liter each day in the lungs, mouth, stomach, intestines, and sinuses, where it plays an essential role in keeping us well.

“Mucus contains antibodies and enzymes that help defend against infection, and it also lubricates the nasal cavities and traps and clears out pollutants, allergens, and viral particles,” explains Calvin Wei, M.D., an assistant professor in the department of otolaryngology at Mount Sinai West Hospital in New York City.