As we enter cold and flu season, one common symptom that many people struggle with is congestion. Being congested can make it difficult to breathe, sleep, and feel comfortable throughout the day. Luckily, a sleep expert has shared a hot water trick that they claim can help ease congestion and allow you to breathe clearly again in just a matter of minutes.
Sleep is essential for overall well-being, and a poor night’s sleep can leave you feeling exhausted and grumpy. This becomes even more challenging during cold and flu season when congestion can disrupt your sleep even further.
The popularity of #cough and #flu on TikTok is evidence that many people are concerned about catching a cold or flu and its impact on their well-being. However, there are ways to ensure you still get a good night’s sleep, even if you’re experiencing congestion.
According to experts at The Z Clinic, a facial steam could be the solution to help clear your airways and relieve congestion. You don’t have to go to a fancy spa to try this technique for yourself. Steam is known for its effectiveness in relaxing airways, loosening mucus, and promoting easier breathing.
To try this hot water trick at home, all you need to do is fill up a sink with warm water (not boiling) and make sure it’s at a comfortable temperature that won’t scald your face. Lean over the sink, keeping your face above the water, and take slow, deep breaths for about five minutes. Allow the heat and steam to enter your nose and lungs, helping to relieve congestion and promote easier breathing.
Tom White, a physiotherapist and certified sleep expert at The Z Clinic, emphasizes the importance of a good night’s sleep when dealing with congestion. He explains that congestion, aches, and coughs caused by seasonal viruses can severely impact sleep quality, which in turn hinders our body’s ability to recover from the virus. A lack of sleep can also affect our physical and mental health, leading to lethargy and poor performance at work or school. The immune system relies on adequate sleep to function properly, so getting a good night’s sleep is even more crucial when dealing with a cold or flu.
White also notes that symptoms of a cold or flu tend to worsen at night. When lying down, mucus doesn’t drain away like it does when upright, resulting in a post-nasal drip that disturbs our breathing. The feeling of drowning when trying to sleep is common, especially when the nose is blocked.
So, if you’re struggling with congestion and want some relief to help you breathe more easily and enjoy a good night’s sleep, give this hot water trick a try. Remember to always prioritize your health and seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen.
Do you have a sleep-related story to share? Email us at julia.banim@reachplc.com.