If you have a cold or suffer from allergies, blowing your nose can help clear the nasal passages. It might seem like a simple task, but there is actually a right and a wrong way to do it. Blowing too hard can aggravate the situation by causing earache or sinus infection. Instead, you need to free one nostril at a time and make sure you do it gently.
Steps
Step 1. Get a tissue or paper handkerchief
The type of material is a matter of preference and is completely up to you. Some people choose paper handkerchiefs, while others prefer old-fashioned cloth ones. In some cases, it will be necessary to take whatever is on hand, since it is not always possible to predict when to blow your nose. Here is an overview:
- Paper tissues: these are made of soft paper and sometimes enriched with some lotion to help soothe the skin of the nose, as it can become dry and irritated if you have to blow it very often.
- Cloth handkerchiefs: These are typically made of soft cotton, which seems to be more suitable on the skin than paper. Make sure you use a clean section every time and wash them often, as they can become breeding grounds for bacteria.
- Toilet paper or paper towels - should only be used as a last resort. They are made of harder paper and sometimes treated with chemicals that are irritating to the delicate skin of the nose.
Step 2. Open your mouth and close your eyes
This relieves the pressure on your face and makes the act of blowing their nose more comfortable for some. Open your mouth slightly and close your eyes if you prefer.
Step 3. Close one nostril by pressing it with your finger
It doesn't matter which nostril you start from. Choose one and use your fingers to press it so it closes.
Step 4. Gently blow into the handkerchief through the open nostril
Hold the tissue on your nose and gently blow until you feel it come loose. Remember not to blow too hard and not to force; if no mucus comes out, stop.
Step 5. Change nostril and blow again
Cover the previously opened nostril and blow through the previously closed one. Make sure you don't blow too hard; a light blow and then stop.
Step 6. Clean your nose
With the clean area of the paper handkerchief or tissue, carefully rub the outside of the nose. Make sure it is dry and there is no mucus left on the outside.
Step 7. Take care of the fabric or paper handkerchief
If you used a disposable tissue, throw it in a waste bin. If it's fabric, fold it so that the dirty part stays inside.
Step 8. Wash your hands
This will avoid transferring germs to people and surfaces you come into contact with. Use warm soapy water and then dry your hands with a clean towel.
Step 9. Facilitates mucus drainage
If your nose is clogged and you can't blow it, there are a few ways to get the mucus to flow in order to clear the passages. Instead of trying to force it, slide it gently by trying the following methods:
- Drink plenty of water and hot drinks to keep yourself hydrated.
- Take a hot shower; the hot steam helps clear the sinuses.
- Use a nasal irrigator.
- Eat something spicy.
Advice
- Don't blow too hard!
- Drink plenty of water to help loosen the mucus.
