Chest congestion is a common symptom of respiratory infections and can make it difficult to breathe.
Chest congestion is a condition that occurs when the airways in the lungs become inflamed, swollen, or irritated. When this happens, it becomes difficult for air to flow smoothly into and out of your lungs. Chest congestion can make it difficult to breathe.
10 Best Home Remedies for Chest Congestion
Chest congestion is the term for the accumulation of mucus and other fluids in the airways. The congestion makes it difficult to breathe freely and deeply, and may also be accompanied by coughing. Chest congestion can be treated with a variety of home remedies, including: –
1. Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus oil has anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties that can help to clear chest congestion.
To use this,
- Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a bowl of boiling water.
- Place a towel over your head and over the bowl
- Inhale and allow the steam to go into your lungs.
- After 3-5 minutes, remove the towel and inhale deeply.
- Repeat three times a day for up to 10 days
Note: Using essential oils after consulting a doctor is always advisable. Pregnant women and young children should not use essential oils without a doctors prescription.
2. Lemon
Lemon has antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that can help clear chest congestion.
To make this,
- Mix the juice of one lemon with honey and water.
- Drink this mixture three times a day for up to 10 days
- Repeat three times a day for up to 10 days.
3. Cough Drops
Cough drops can help to soothe the throat and break up congestion in the chest.
To relieve coughing,
- Dissolve two teaspoons of honey in water
- Add some cough drops.
- Stir well and drink quickly.
- Repeat three times a day for up to 10 daysOr you can take cough lozenges directly
These are easily available in the otc stores. These are not scientifically proven and are only meant for an alternative to medicines.
4. Ginger
Ginger has anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties that can help to clear chest congestion.
To make this,
- Mix equal parts of ginger, honey, and lemon juice.
- Take this mixture three times a day.
- You can also take ginger supplements as per daily intake limit
5. Steam Inhalation
Steam inhalation is a simple and effective way to clear chest congestion.
To do this,
- Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil or peppermint oil to a bowl of boiling water.
- Place a towel over your head and over the bowl
- Inhale and allow the steam to go into your lungs.
- After 3-5 minutes, remove the towel and inhale deeply.
- Repeat three times a day for up to 7 days
6. Hot Towels
Applying hot towels to the chest can help to break up congestion and relieve chest pain.
To do this,
- Soak a towel in hot water and wring it out.
- Fold the towel and place it on your chest.
- Leave it in place for 3-5 minutes.
- Repeat three times a day for up to 10 days.
- This method is not scientifically proven.
7. Honey
Honey has anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties that can help to clear chest congestion.
To make this,
- Mix the juice of one lemon with honey and water.
- Drink this mixture three times a day.
- You can also take it directly one spoonful twice a day.
8. Turmeric
Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties that can help to clear chest congestion.
To make this,
- Mix one teaspoon of turmeric with honey and water.
- Drink this mixture three times a day for up to 10 days.
- You can also take turmeric supplements as per daily intake limit
9. Drink Warm Liquids and Soups:
Drinking warm liquids and soups can help to break up congestion and relieve chest pain.
To make this,
- Mix the juice of one lemon with honey and water.
- Drink this mixture three times a day.
- You can also take it directly one spoonful twice a day.
10. Humidifiers
Humidifiers disperse moisture into the air, which can help prevent you from getting dry throat and chest congestion that are bothersome to many. When you breathe in water vapor droplets, they add moisture to your nasal passages and airways. This natural lubricant is useful for flushing out the mucus, so you can get rid of the virus.
What are the Causes of Chest Congestion?
It is often caused by a viral infection such as influenza or a bacterial infection such as bronchitis.
Chest congestion can also be caused by
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Heart disease
- Viral Infections
- Or other conditions that affect the lungs and airways.
When to See a Doctor?
If your cough is accompanied by any of the following, then you should see a doctor:
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
- Fever over 101.3 F (38.5 C)
- Chest pain
- Coughing up blood or green phlegm
- Loss of consciousness
- Difficulty Swallowing
Use these simple remedies when you are suffering from a cough or cold. However, if your symptoms persist for more than 10 days or you experience any of the above mentioned complications, it is advisable to see a doctor. Hope this was helpful! Stay healthy!
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