How to get rid of Mucus

  
See your doctor if you have signs of an infection. If you have ongoing problems with nasal mucus and sinus congestion, then it is possible that bacteria can become lodged in your sinuses and develop into a sinus infection.

• Symptoms of a sinus infections include prolonged sinus pressure, congestion, pain, or a headache for more than seven days.

If you develop a fever, you may have a sinus infection. Watch for changes in the mucus. If the mucus changes to a greenish or yellowish color instead of clear or develops an odor, then you may have bacteria growing in your sinus passages leading to a sinus infection.

• When your sinuses get blocked with congestion, the mucus, and bacteria that is normally produced gets trapped. If the congestion and pressure are not relieved, the trapped bacteria can lead to a sinus infection.
• Antibiotics are ineffective if the infection is due to a virus. If you have a cold or flu virus, treat with zinc, vitamin C, and/or pseudoephedrine.

Use steam. Steam helps to break up mucus in your chest, nose, and throat, allowing you to expel it from your body easier.

• Boil a pot of water and hold your face over the bowl and breathe in the steam for several minutes.
• Cover your head with a towel to concentrate your exposure to the steam.
• Additionally, you can take a hot shower to help break up the mucus.

Protect your sinuses from sudden temperature changes. If your work requires that you are outside in colder temperatures, it can often contribute to mucus buildup and release when you enter a warmer environment.

• Take steps to keep your face and nasal area warm during the time you are outside in the colder temperatures.

Blow your nose. Blow your nose gently and correctly. Some experts suggest that blowing your nose may cause more problems than it helps.

• Blow your nose gently. Clear only one nostril at a time.
• Blowing too hard can cause small openings to develop in your sinus areas. If you have any bacteria or unwanted irritants in your nose, then you may be forcing them further back into your sinuses as you blow your nose.
• Always use clean materials to blow your nose and wash your hands thoroughly afterward to prevent the spread of bacteria or germs.