As winter tightens its grip, bringing the inevitable wave of colds and sniffles, many across the UK are searching for quick relief from feeling bunged up. While pharmacy shelves offer numerous solutions, a simple technique shared online by a medical professional is capturing attention for its speed and cost – it's completely free.
The Viral Five-Second Nasal Clearance Method
Dr Ben Horning, a chiropractor and applied kinesiologist who runs the Horning Chiropractic and Acupuncture Centre in Laguna Hills, California, demonstrated the method in a recent TikTok clip. The straightforward process involves pulling the nose gently and then using a thumb to apply pressure inside the cheekbone.
In the video, upbeat narration guides viewers: "Feeling stuffy? I'm a chiro, I'll show how to unblock it. Grab your nose and pull it, thumb goes inside the cheekbone, and push it." Dr Horning performed the moves alongside the instructions, prompting a flood of reactions from users who tried it themselves.
Viewer Reactions and NHS Advice on Sinus Issues
The response in the comments section was mixed but included notable success stories. One user declared, "It actually works", while another asked, "Why did that just work?" Dr Horning humorously responded, "Chiro magic!" A further comment read, "Why did it just work, for real, I'm not lying", accompanied by a shocked face emoji. However, it is important to note that several people reported the technique did not work for them.
According to the NHS, a blocked or stuffy nose can have various causes, most commonly the common cold or sinusitis – an inflammation of the sinuses often triggered by an infection. The health service states that sinusitis is common after a cold or flu and usually clears up on its own within four weeks, though medicines can assist if it persists.
Recognising Sinusitis and Seeking Professional Help
Sinusitis presents with a range of symptoms beyond simple congestion. These can include pain, swelling, and tenderness around the cheeks, eyes, or forehead, a reduced sense of smell, green or yellow nasal discharge, and a high temperature. Other signs may involve headaches, bad breath, toothache, and a persistent cough.
For those seeking relief, a local pharmacist is a key first point of contact. They can recommend suitable treatments such as decongestant nasal sprays or drops to ease congestion – though these are not suitable for children under six. Saline nasal sprays or rinses are another option for cleaning nasal passages.
If your symptoms cause concern, do not improve, or you experience severe flu-like symptoms, it is crucial to consult a qualified healthcare professional for advice.
