Over-the-counter nasal decongestants act by stimulating receptors in nasal passages called alpha-1 adrenergic receptors.

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Breathe Right Nasal Strips - claims to keep congested nasal passages open.

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However, Nance and others like her have become devoted to the practice of flushing water through their nasal passages to help them breathe easier.

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Later, the a tube can be passed down the throat or nasal passages so that air can be mechanically forced in by a bag or a ventilator.

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His nasal passages were clogged, his breathing severely labored.

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Also consider long-acting decongestant sprays or tablets, which help keep blocked nasal passages open when cabin pressure changes during take-off and landing. (Decongestant can be overly drying in airplane cabin air so consider saline solution, too).

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