How to quickly clear a stuffy nose when you have a cold?

Written by Wang Chun Mei
Pulmonology
Updated on May 01, 2025
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The common cold is a very common clinical disease, mostly caused by a decrease in immune function and viral infection. Symptoms of the common cold mainly include fever, nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, and other discomforts.

When nasal congestion is caused by a cold, how can one quickly alleviate the symptoms of congestion? Generally, to relieve it in a short period of time, one can apply a hot towel to the nasal cavity or use some vasodilator drugs to improve the symptoms of nasal blockage temporarily.

Therefore, clinically, to relieve such symptoms, one can appropriately use some medication or apply a hot towel to the nose. However, the fundamental solution to nasal congestion caused by a cold is to use antiviral drugs for symptomatic treatment, as this is the only way to completely cure the nasal congestion symptoms caused by the cold.

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How to deal with chronic colds?

Colds, generally speaking, are not serious illnesses. However, if one suffers from frequent colds with recurring symptoms, it can significantly affect the patient and severely impact their quality of life. So, what should be done? Typically, if one frequently catches colds, it indicates that the patient's immune system is relatively weak. Therefore, it is recommended to regularly exercise, engage in physical activities, and spend time outdoors to boost immunity and enhance the body's adaptability. Additionally, with seasonal changes, it is important to change clothing promptly to avoid getting cold. Regular rest and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are crucial; avoid smoking and drinking. During the cold season, it's wise to drink more water, ensure rooms are well-ventilated, and avoid crowded places as much as possible to specifically prevent catching a cold.

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Can you eat shrimp with a cold?

When you have a cold, it is important to be cautious about what you eat. It is best to avoid eating shrimp as it is considered a stimulating food that can potentially worsen the symptoms of a cold. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid seafood like fish, shrimp, and crabs, which are also considered stimulating. Your diet should primarily be light, and you should consume foods rich in vitamins and fiber. Additionally, maintaining a positive mindset and not worrying too much are important. Furthermore, if the cold is severe, be sure to follow a doctor's guidance and cooperate with the medical treatment actively. Avoid spicy, greasy, raw, or irritant foods. Also, it is advisable not to consume items like chili peppers, black pepper, mustard, alcoholic beverages, strong tea, and coffee.

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How is a cold transmitted?

Colds are primarily transmitted through airborne droplets, as well as close contact with patients, shared utensils, and other means of transmission. This disease itself is a respiratory infection caused by viral infections, leading to symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, headache, fever, sore throat, and cough. However, it is self-limiting, so there is no need for concern. Once sick, drink plenty of water, rest, treat symptoms accordingly, and prevent complications. To prevent colds, strengthen protection, avoid going out during the flu season, exercise regularly, and boost immunity.

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Do you get a fever with a stomach flu?

Many patients with gastrointestinal flu will experience fever because the cause of gastroenteritis is also viral infection. Gastrointestinal flu often has symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection and acute gastroenteritis, so it is common to experience fever. The symptoms often include fever, cold stomach, dizziness, headache, fatigue, soreness, as well as vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. It is not surprising that these symptoms include fever. It is recommended to drink more boiled water, take cold medicine as appropriate, and if vomiting or diarrhea is severe, anti-diarrheal medicine can be taken to relieve it. At the same time, pay attention to a light and easily digestible diet.

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What should I do about recurrent colds caused by qi deficiency?

When experiencing repeated colds due to qi deficiency, it is essential to first adjust the diet and timely take medicine to improve and treat the condition. It is also crucial to pay attention to rest, avoid excessive fatigue, stay warm, and not catch cold to better improve the situation. Additionally, soaking in warm water, using a sauna, scraping therapy, or cupping can also be effective in regulating the body and significantly help in alleviating symptoms.