Clearing Nasal Congestion

• 1). Throw out every nasal spray decongestant you have, so you can't easily use one in a moment of weakness. People dependent on nasal spray commonly have more than one bottle, so you'll need to get rid of any that you keep in your medicine cabinet, purse, car, desk at work, or locker at school.
  
  
• 2). Understand the rebound effect. This involves nasal congestion becoming worse after you stop using the spray. Your congestion may become worse than it was originally. The effect will dissipate over a week or two, but this is the point where you need the willpower to not start using the spray again.
  
  
• 3). Substitute saline spray or a Capsaicin pepper-based nasal spray for your usual nasal spray. These sprays are available over the counter and are not habit-forming. You also can make a saline nasal rinse or spray with 1/4 tsp. non-iodized salt and 1/2 cup warm, distilled water.
  
  
• 4). Use a humidifier in your bedroom so you can breathe more easily when sleeping. Dry air can aggravate nasal congestion.
  
  
• 5). Drink hot herbal tea or hot soup, so the steam will help clear your nasal congestion. Avoid caffeinated beverages, which can have a dehydrating effect.
  
  
• 6). Apply warm compresses, such as a warm washcloth, to the sinus area around your nose; this can help loosen mucus.
  
  
• 7). Purchase nasal strips that hold the nostrils open, and wear them while sleeping. Simply opening the nasal passages wider can help.