![](https://livingwelldaily.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/LWD_240704-1000x667-1-1000x300.jpg)
Six Simple Hacks to BEAT Morning Congestion
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.
![Dr. Scott Olson, ND](https://livingwelldaily.com/wp-content/themes/health-child/images/author-images/Dr.ScottOlson,ND.jpg)
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.
View More Free Articles
Don’t Ignore This Weight Loss Drug WARNING
By now, you’ve heard the buzz about GLP-1 weight loss drugs such as Ozempic. They’re being hailed as game-changers in the fight against obesity, with everyone from celebrities to everyday folks singing their praises. But what if I told you these miracle medications might be hiding a dark secret? Or that ignoring this potential side...
Tiny Allies Could Revolutionize Weight Loss
We usually think of bacteria as the bad guys, right? Well, plot twist! Some of those bugs are actually GOOD for us. I’m talking about the friendly bacteria probiotics, of course. They hang out in your gut and help keep things running smoothly down there. Now, in the ongoing battle against obesity, scientists are exploring...
Bring Home the Magic of Outdoor Sleeping (No Backpack Required!)
I’m an avid backpacker and love sleeping outdoors. In fact, I dream of spending more nights sleeping under the stars than under a roof. There are many benefits to breathing outdoor air. (More on those in a moment.) But you don’t have to strap on a backpack to get the benefits of outdoor sleeping… A...
Fruit Bowl Secret to a Healthier Heart
We often think that improving our health requires drastic changes or complicated regimens. But that’s simply NOT the case. In fact, new research reveals eating more of a simple, tasty fruit could significantly lower your risk of cardiovascular disease. Keep reading to discover the delicious fruit-bowl secret to a healthier heart… New research suggests that...
Mailbag: The Sip, Swish, Smile Fix for Dry Mouth
“Had dry mouth for a while. Which are the best mouth rinses that don’t taste bad?” – Dry As a Desert Dear Dry, Dry mouth isn’t just annoying. It can also lead to dental problems if left unchecked. I’ll share the name of an effective mouth rinse in just a moment. But before relying on...
Olive Extract Boosts Weight Loss and Blood Sugar Control
On this Labor Day, we’d like to take a moment to honor the hard work and dedication of all workers who contribute to our nation’s strength and prosperity. Forget fad diets and grueling workouts. New research suggests a humble compound found in olives might be the weight loss and blood sugar breakthrough we’ve all been...
Herbal Hero CRUSHES Bad Cholesterol and Blood Sugar
We all know garlic is supposed to keep vampires at bay. But what if I told you this 5,000-year-old pungent bulb could also ward off some real-life health villains? A groundbreaking new study suggests that garlic can be a secret weapon in the fight against high blood sugar and cholesterol. How does this humble herb...
What Your Poop Schedule Says About Your Health
We need to talk about something we ALL do. I’ll admit, it isn’t dinner table conversation, but it IS important. While discussing your bathroom habits might make you blush, new research suggests they could be a crystal ball for your long-term health. A groundbreaking study from the Institute for Systems Biology (ISB) uncovered a vital...
Are Your Senses Sending You an SOS?
As you journey into and through your golden years, you’re bound to notice some changes in how you experience the world. You may have found yourself turning up the volume on the TV more often or holding the newspaper at arm’s length to read it. Well, you’re not alone… but there’s more to these changes...
"Rise and Shine" Energy Hack Transforms Your ENTIRE Day
Imagine an all-natural, entirely free hack that improves sleep quality and has you kickstarting your day with a burst of energy that lasts until bedtime. I know it sounds too good to be true. Heck, if I didn’t know better, I’d be looking for the catch, too. But I assure you, it’s legit. This simple...