Remedies to Clear Chest Congestion

There are millions of different types of colds that we can catch. Once we catch cold, the next thing that follows is a congested chest. Chest congestion is a common condition especially for those suffering from cough, cold and flu. It is a very common problem in children and infants.

What is Chest Congestion?

Chest congestion is a feeling of congestion or tightness in the chest usually due to accumulation of fluid and mucus in the lower respiratory tract. In the respiratory system, mucus aids in the protection of the lungs by trapping foreign particles that enter it, particularly through the nose, during normal breathing. Additionally, mucus aids in moisturizing the inhaled air and prevents tissues lining the walls of the respiratory system from drying out. But certain allergic reactions or respiratory tract infections (such as common cold and flu) cause inflammation which in turn causes excessive mucus accumulation thereby giving rise to Chest Congestion.

More often than not, it is a minor medical problem for which many people do not even seek medical assistance. However, if the congestion is serious or persistent, it can result in more serious health conditions like bronchitis or pneumonia.

What causes Chest Congestion?

Here are some possibilities of how does a person get a congested feeling in their chest:

• Common cold
• Flu
• Airborne allergies
• Infection
• Asthma
• Bronchitis
• Pulmonary edema
• Pneumonia
• Cystic fibrosis

What are the symptoms of Chest Congestion?

Symptoms of chest mucus often include:

• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain and tightness
• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Runny nose
• Blood in cough
• Loud noises while breathing

What are the treatments for Chest Congestion?

You can take the help of over-the-counter (OTC) remedies or your doctor may prescribe medications to cure it. The goal is to thin out the mucus so that it can be coughed up easily. Here are some treatments for chest congestion:

• Your doctor may prescribe an Albuterol inhaler if you are suffering from chest congestion associated with acute or chronic bronchitis. An albuterol inhaler is a quick-relief or rescue medication used to decrease asthma symptoms. It works as a bronchodilator - relaxes the smooth muscles and functionally enlarges the size of the airways of the lung. This allows more air to enter your lungs and makes it easier for you to breathe.

• You may require nebulizer treatment if your chest congestion is thick to the point where inhalation medications cannot penetrate deep within your lungs. A nebulizer is a battery or electrically powered device that turns liquid medications into a mist so that you may breath the medication into the lungs using either a face mask or mouthpiece for 10 to 15 minutes.

• Your doctor may also prescribe prescription-strength expectorants to help break up chest congestion. Expectorants will thin out the mucus so that it is easier to cough up.

Although over the counter and prescription medicines are available to reduce your symptoms of chest congestion, home remedies may be equally effective and safer. Here are some home remedies:

• Try herbal tea (such as cardamom, anise, rosemary and ginseng) to help clear congestion. They not only provide aromatherapy benefits but also help to loosen up the phlegm and mucus (in your throat and chest) that is blocking your air passages. Warm peppermint tea can also help to ease the congestion of your chest.

• Try inhaling some steam (produced using a pan of boiling water, vaporizer or hot shower) with eucalyptus oil or peppermint in it to give you some relief. The steam will help loosen phlegm in your throat and sinuses.

• Place a hot pack or a hot cloth on your chest and throat for a few seconds. This will help relieve chest congestion, especially during the night, and warm the airways externally.

• Eating spicy foods like peppers, jalapeno and chilies can actually help get rid of the unwanted congestion by loosening up the mucus.

• It is beneficial to drink a teaspoon of freshly extracted ginger juice twice daily. Adding some honey and lime juice to the ginger will help in enhancing its taste.

• Mix one teaspoon turmeric (haldi) with one glass warm water or a glass of warm milk. Have this early in the morning and before going to bed at night.

• Try having a hot bowl of chicken soup. It helps in relieving chest congestion by reducing the inflammation of the mucus membranes. It also thins the thick mucus, allowing it to be released easily.

• Massaging the chest with essential oils helps to relieve congestion by encouraging deeper breathing.

• Increases your consumption of water and other fluids. This will help to keep the phlegm and drainage clear and thin.

• If you are having trouble sleeping because of congestion, try elevating your head with additional pillows. This helps to clear your airways of drainage or mucus.

These home remedies are useful and very effective in treating the chest congestion problem. Besides the above home remedies, get adequate sleep and rest and consume as much fluids as possible.