[powersnail]

I used to drink water only when thirst climbs up my throat; over the course of last year or two, I gradually increased the frequency and amount of water intake, to about 2.5 liters per day. Not an extraordinary amount, but quite effectively, it has alleviated my chronic stuffy nose.

Slowing down aging, improvements of digestive system, etc. I can't really feel. But the freedom to breath through my nose, which used to occur only after a hot shower, to be liberated from having to gape my mouth like a dazed cat all the time, is a huge reward in itself.

Anecdotal, of course. But I've rule out tons of other variables already (location, allergen, air humidity, temperature, diet, etc.) for this chronic---and inherited---condition, and I'm reasonably confident in my uneducated guess that hydration has something to do with it.

[personjerry]

This might be my problem. Did you ever go to a doctor? Doctors told me I have inflammation in my nose but I always just felt something was dry. I've found a humidifier helps to an extent, but perhaps my problem is drinking water.

[powersnail]

Both my father and I have gone to doctors, and were diagnosed with inflammation. That was a long time ago and I don’t remember the specifics, but essentially, it’s the kind of disease that is chronic and they didn’t really know the specific cause of it. We got prescribed those steroid nose spray to use on a bad day. It helps to an extent, but not quite solving the problem. The effect only lasts for a few hours and I think they strongly recommend against using it more than once a day. Plus it’s kinda expensive if used frequently.

Drinking a lot of water, on the other hand, has a huge effect on my breathing. I can breath through my nose all day now. It probably doesn’t treat the underlying cause, but symptom-wise, it works better than any prescription I’ve taken.

I’m in no position to give real medical advice, but since drinking a bit more water is usually regarded as harmless (2.5 liters is well within the safe range of water intake as far as I know), I’d say give it a try. Just prepare to pee more frequently.

[a9h74j]

> 2.5 liters is well within the safe range of water intake as far as I know

I have seen 2L/day of urine output recommended as a target minimum for preventing kidney stones.