Six Simple Hacks to BEAT Morning Congestion
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted July 4, 2024
As we celebrate America’s independence today, we honor the enduring spirit of freedom that has defined our nation for generations. May this Fourth of July remind us of the blessings of liberty and the strength of our united country.
A frustrated patient recently asked me why she wakes up feeling congested so often.
Unfortunately, opening your eyes to a head that feels like it’s stuffed with cotton is a common complaint. And it happens more frequently as we age. Maybe you even battle it yourself from time to time.
Are those darn allergies that seem to get worse every year to blame for the frequent congestion? Or could it be something more serious, like a chronic sinus infection?
Let’s take a look…
As we age, our bodies undergo many changes. One of those is that our immune system tends to become less effective.
It’s a process called immunosenescence. It can make you more vulnerable to infections and reactions to irritants (such as pollen, dust, and dander) that your body would easily have shrugged off when you were younger.
This can lead to chronic congestion, including those annoying morning stuffies.
But don’t worry, you’re NOT doomed to a life of constant sniffling and sneezing. There are some simple ways to find relief. It might take persistence and some detective work to determine what works best for you, but you don’t have to stay congested and miserable for the rest of your days.
The following are six proven natural remedies that could have you breathing easier in no time:
- Let off some steam: Try using a humidifier or carefully pouring hot water into a heat-safe bowl and breathing in the steam. Adding a few drops of an essential oil such as like eucalyptus or peppermint can help clear congestion out quickly.
- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water, herbal tea, and other clear fluids to help keep your nasal passages moist and thin out the mucus clogging up your nose.
- Spice it up: Have you ever eaten something spicy and had your nose run? Spices like ginger, cayenne pepper, and horseradish are natural decongestants. Try adding them to your food or steeping them in tea.
- Rinse it out: Use a neti pot or saline spray to flush out your nasal passages eliminate any irritants or allergens causing your congestion. It works best in the shower as it makes less of a mess.
- Food fix: Mild food allergies or sensitivities can trigger congestion. A simple elimination diet (removing one food category at a time) can help pinpoint the cause. As a tip, dairy foods are by far the most common culprit.
- Get some rest: When you’re congested, your body is hard at work fighting off whatever triggered the problem. So, support its efforts by getting plenty of rest. And try sleeping with your head elevated to help drain your sinuses.
If your congestion is severe or lasts more than a few weeks, it’s always best to see a doctor. But these simple hacks could do the trick for mild to moderate congestion,
P.S. Avoid these common mistakes that make seasonal allergies WORSE.
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
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