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Everyone has experienced an embarrassing moment—but it’s even worse when it’s caught on camera.
After a cringe-worthy televised incident involving a football player, his finger, and his nose that took the internet by storm, let’s take a moment to learn about proper nasal hygiene.
Typically, coughing lasts the duration of your sickness. But what happens if it lasts much longer?
Aside from being a social faux pas as an adult, nose picking is an unhygienic habit and socially unacceptable. This is especially true during the colder months when you’re more likely to be around others.
Additionally, frequent nose picking can lead to:
It might be tempting to pick your nose when you’re congested, but there are better methods to relieve nasal blockage without becoming a viral sensation. These include:
Antihistamines, decongestants, and corticosteroids can be helpful if your congestion is caused by seasonal allergies or a sinus infection.
Using a neti pot with sterile water can flush out your sinus passages and nasal cavities, removing irritants like allergens or excess mucus.
Dr. Michael Sicard, a CEENTA ENT physician from our Matthews office, explains how another sinus rinse option may be useful. “Nasal emollient or gel provides a healing environment to allow the membrane to heal and minimize accumulation of crusty mucus. It is best to avoid petroleum-based gels.”
Taking a hot shower or inhaling steam from hot water can loosen mucus in your nose, making it easier to blow it out safely.
Your congestion could simply be due to dehydration. Staying well-hydrated helps prevent thick mucus that can block your breathing.
If home remedies haven’t relieved your stuffy nose, it may be time to see an ENT specialist to identify the root cause.
At CEENTA, our board-certified otolaryngologists can examine your nose to determine whether your persistent congestion is due to conditions like allergies, sinusitis, or a deviated septum. From there, you’ll receive a personalized care plan to help you breathe easier—without resorting to unsanitary habits.
“Both medical and surgical solutions may be considered,” Dr. Sicard says. “Comprehensive evaluation including nasal endoscopy and allergy skin testing for home immunotherapy is available when appropriate.”
To get started, schedule your next ENT appointment with Dr. Sicard at CEENTA Matthews using our online scheduling tool or myCEENTAchart.
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