Chest congestion is a very common symptom of an infection of the respiratory system. It is characterized by the collection of excess mucus, causing problems such as chest tightness and shortness of breath. Weakness and dizziness usually accompany chest congestion due to the diminished supply of oxygen to the body.
The common cold, flu, sinusitis, cough and acute bronchitis are some of the things that can cause chest congestion. For these problems concerning the respiratory system, there are over-the-counter as well as prescription drugs available that can help loosen or thin excess mucus, thus providing relief from chest congestion and other related symptoms.
Certain home remedies are also available for chest congestion that allows for respite from it. These all-natural solutions work by thinning mucus, reducing inflammation and/or eliminating the microbes behind the respiratory tract infection. Try one or more of the following proven effective ways to deal with chest congestion at home:
Steam
Inhaling steam can help in loosening thick mucus plugging the upper airways. Such can be done by filling a small basin with hot water, and placing the face a few inches above it with a large towel draped over the head. You may also choose to take a hot shower, inhaling the steam that fills the bathroom.
Ginger Tea
The intake of ginger tea is highly recommended during a bout of chest congestion because it’s a superb anti-inflammatory agent. Making the said herbal beverage is as easy as steeping a teaspoon of grated fresh ginger root in a cup of hot water. A teaspoon of freshly-squeezed lemon juice or raw honey may be added to taste.
ACV
Apple cider vinegar’s anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties can help in relieving chest congestion ASAP. To harness the healing power of apple cider vinegar, you simply need to stir in a tablespoon or two of it in a glass of water. Consume this mix up to three times a day for relief as well as speedier healing.
Turmeric
Before hitting the sack, you may take a glass of warm milk with a pinch of turmeric powder dissolved in it. This beverage promotes comfortable breathing as well as a good night’s sleep. If the root cause of your chest congestion is a sore throat, you may gargle with a glass of water with a pinch of turmeric powder in it several times a day.
Warm Salt Water
Speaking of gargling, such may also be done with warm salt water. All you have to do is dissolve a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water, and then gargle with it. Salt is very good at zapping microbes responsible for an upper airway infection that can leave you with chest congestion. Do this several times per day for immediate relief.
Lemon Juice
Because lemon juice is teeming with vitamin C, this refreshing beverage can help in strengthening your immune system. As a result, your body becomes more effective in dealing with the ongoing infection of your respiratory system. Avoid adding refined sugar to lemon juice as it’s pro-inflammatory, making your chest congestion worse.
Garlic
Adding lots of garlic to your diet is a smart move if your chest is congested. That’s because this very popular herb is capable of putting an end to inflammation. More importantly, garlic can kill off any microbe that is the reason behind your bout of respiratory tract infection. Taking raw cloves of garlic or garlic capsule will also do.
Remember to see your doctor immediately if your chest congestion refuses to go away after a few days, or continues to worsen. If you know of any other tried-and-tested home remedy for chest congestion, kindly share it below.
