The mucus is caused by inflammation of the mucus membranes. I have found that a minute amount of vinegar will immediately relieve inflammation of the mucus membranes. What I do is take a cotton swab, dip it into 3% (common vinegar) and gently swab each nostril and each outer ear. If you have an active infection it will sting a little. Your sinuses will be immediately open and you will be able to breathe. If I have an active infection I will repeat this every 4 hours. I am not a doctor, this just works for me. It is very powerful, don’t overdo it.