How to Clear a Congested Chest

Cold and cough are common not only during the winter months, but also when there is a change of season. People suffering from congested chest find it difficult to breathe especially at night. A rattling sound from the chest may also be heard. Often it is seen that after a bout of coughing the person will throw up green colored phlegm.

In some cases, the phlegm may not be thrown out. This congestion of the chest leads to the person finding it difficult to function normally due to lack of oxygen he experiences on account of not being able to breathe properly. Using these tips on to clear a congested chest, will make it easier to get rid of the chest congestion. So keep reading.

Liquids: It is not uncommon for anyone to ask, how to clear a congested chest. Well, the first step to be taken is to ensure that you consume sufficient amounts of liquids. It is best to opt for clear liquids like water, juice, clear soups, etc.

Thicker liquids should not be taken, as they may not prove to be helpful, rather they might aggravate the condition as opposed to alleviate it. It is best to have warm liquids. Hydration makes it easier for the body to throw the phlegm out. This method is effective for chest congestion in babies.

Herbal Teas: Herbal teas also prove to be of help in treating congested chest. Ginger tea is very soothing for people with cold, cough or congested chest. Other than ginger, cardamom, anise, rosemary, ginseng, lemon grass, etc. are some of the herbs, which can be used for making herbal tea.

It is important that one drinks the tea as warm as is possible. Drinking the tea warm helps to loosen mucus from the chest lining, which in turn helps to expel mucus out of the system.

Steam: One of the simple home remedies for a congested chest is to take steam. One can choose a vaporizer, hot shower, steamer or a pan of boiling water for producing steam. Taking steam helps in clearing the airways, lungs and throat. This aids in loosening mucus from the chest. It also has a soothing effect.

Eucalyptus oil can also be added to hot water, when one is taking steam as it also has a soothing effect and helps in clearing congestion. After taking a hot shower of steam, it is important that the person is not exposed to cold air, as taking steam will prove futile and the condition will aggravate further.

Elevation?: This chest congestion remedy has to be used, while going to bed. While sleeping, it is recommended that the head is placed on an elevation. Additional pillows can be used to elevate the head. Placing the head on an elevation ensures that the airways are cleared of mucus and air flow to the chest muscles increases.

Gargling: Gargling with salt added to warm water proves to be helpful in clearing congested airways. Turmeric powder can also be added to the salt water for better relief. It is important that the salt water reaches as deep as possible in the throat.

This often helps in bringing mucus up. Similarly one can choose to use warm apple cider vinegar to gargle. This remedy should be repeated three to four times through the day to see better effect.

Oils!: Eucalyptus oil or lavender oil can also be rubbed on the throat, chest and back of the person experiencing chest congestion. Some people may find the aroma way too strong, but bearing with the aroma for sometime will help in clearing the congestion. Similarly vapor rubs can also be used. It is best to use them after taking steam and/or after a hot shower.

Spices!: Cayenne pepper, ginger, licorice, comfrey, cinnamon stick, etc. are some of the herbs which can be used for treating a congested chest. It is best to include these herbs in regular diet, till one gets rid of the congested chest. Also do not forget to include honey in the diet. Its healing properties prove to be beneficial in treating the condition.

Toddy: Another chest congestion remedy is to use hot toddy to treat the condition. In a saucepan, heat quarter cup honey with juice of two fresh lemons. When the mixture comes to a boil, remove it from heat and let is cool for sometime. When the mixture cools, one can either add rum or whiskey to make hot toddy. It should be consumed, when warm.

With the use of these tips on clearing a congested chest, you should be able to seek quick relief. If the condition does not seem to get better even after a few days have passed, then it is recommended that you consult your health care professional. After examining you, he will be in a better position to treat the condition.