{"id":3916,"date":"2024-04-17T19:21:14","date_gmt":"2024-04-17T23:21:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/charlestonent.com\/?p=3916"},"modified":"2024-04-17T19:21:15","modified_gmt":"2024-04-17T23:21:15","slug":"why-does-steam-help-clear-congestion","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/charlestonent.com\/why-does-steam-help-clear-congestion\/","title":{"rendered":"Why Does Steam Help Clear Congestion?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Approximately 12% of the U.S. population is experiencing nasal congestion<\/a>, also called a stuffy nose, at any given time. While a stuffy nose isn\u2019t usually a cause for immediate alarm, it can be an annoying symptom when prolonged<\/a>. Let\u2019s look at common causes of congestion and why steam can help relieve your symptoms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Common Causes of Nasal Congestion<\/h2>\n\n\n
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The mucus in your nose is the front line of defense in protecting your body from germs, dirt, allergens and more. While a certain amount of mucus is vital to a healthy immune system, inflammation or excess mucus production can leave you congested<\/a>. Common conditions that can lead to inflammation and congestion include sinusitis, deviated septum, nonallergic or allergic rhinitis, nasal polyps and cold and flu viruses<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Can Steam Help Clear Congestion?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Steam inhalation is a widely used congestion relief method. The hot steam works by moisturizing the nasal canal and loosening trapped mucus. There are a few ways you can employ steam inhalation to clear congestion:<\/p>\n\n\n\n