How to Cure Mucus Congestion

Congestion and mucus due to an upper respiratory infection can cause a chronic cough and stuffiness. However, you can relieve symptoms with home remedies and over-the-counter medications. These remedies help expel mucus, or phlegm, which stops symptoms and promotes better breathing. 

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Heater
• Humidifier
• Chicken broth
• Liquids

1. Keep warm. Congestion worsens in cold weather. Stay indoors and turn up your heater. If necessary, buy a portable heater to help maintain a warm temperature inside your home.

2. Quit smoking. Tobacco use increases the production of mucus. To get rid of congestion and mucus, give up the cigarette habit.

3. Humidify your space. Break up mucus in your nose and chest with a humidifier.

4. Sip on soup and other hot liquids. Hot liquids such as hot teas are effective for reducing mucus and relieving congestion. Warm up a bowl of chicken soup. According to Kid's Health, chicken soup contains an amino acid that helps thin mucus in the body.

5. Drink water. In conjunction with hot liquids, keep your body hydrated and loosen mucus congestion by consuming plenty of water (or juice), according to the Mayo Clinic.

6. Find a sauna. If you're able to move around, visit your local health spa and sit in the sauna or steam room to thin mucus and restore breathing.

7. Use medication. Look for an over-the-counter decongestant to get rid of mucus in the chest and promote nasal drainage. Use as directed.

Tips & Warnings

• According to GUAI-AID, if congestion lasts for longer than 2 weeks, or if facial swelling, blurry vision and greenish discharge accompanies congestion, see a doctor.

References

• GUAI_AID
• Mayo Clinic
• MotherNature.com

Resources

• Mayo Clinic
• Kid's Health