A therapist who has secured millions of views on social media with his straightforward health advice has now shared a simple way you can unblock a stuffy nose in seconds. The advice from James Moore comes as people across the country are suffering thanks to high pollen counts and as we enter a new Covid wave.
Sharing a video, James has shown a simple method he says will clear your nose and help you breathe much more easily. You start by pushing a finger against one side of your nose to close one nostril.
Then put firm pressure under the cheekbone on the opposite side of the face. Hold this position for 10 seconds. James says it also works if you ‘pull’ your nose to one side and put pressure under your cheekbone for 10 seconds.
James, who specialises in massage says the method increases blood flow to the sinus area.
Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is an allergic reaction to airborne substances such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or mould. These substances are known as allergens.
When a person with hay fever comes into contact with these allergens, their immune system mistakenly identifies them as harmful and releases histamines and other chemicals to fight them off. This results in symptoms such as:
- Sneezing
- Itchy and watery eyes
- Runny or blocked nose
- Itchy throat, mouth, nose, and ears
- Cough
- Fatigue (due to poor sleep quality from symptoms)
Hay fever is often seasonal, with symptoms peaking during times of high pollen counts, typically in the spring and summer. However, it can also be perennial (year-round) if the allergens are present throughout the year, such as dust mites or pet dander.
Management and treatment options for hay fever include:
- Avoidance of allergens : Staying indoors during high pollen counts, using air purifiers, and keeping windows closed can help reduce exposure.
- Medications : Over-the-counter or prescription antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, and decongestants can alleviate symptoms.
- Immunotherapy : Allergy shots or sublingual tablets can gradually desensitize the immune system to specific allergens.
- Lifestyle adjustments : Regularly cleaning living spaces, washing bedding in hot water, and using allergy-proof covers for mattresses and pillows.
If symptoms are severe or persistent, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a tailored treatment plan.