Nasal Congestion Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Options
Nasal congestion treatments include over-the-counter medications, prescription drugs, and natural remedies. Discover the best ways to relieve nasal congestion!
Nasal congestion is an uncomfortable condition that causes a runny nose, sneezing, and sometimes coughing. It can also cause headaches, sore throat, and fatigue.
Over-The-Counter Medications
There are several over-the-counter (OTC) medications available to treat nasal congestion. These include decongestants, antihistamines, and saline sprays. Decongestants work by drying out mucus and reducing swelling in the sinuses. They come in liquid form and as tablets. Antihistamines block histamine receptors in the body, which reduces inflammation and speeds up healing. Saline sprays contain sodium chloride, which helps clear mucus from the sinuses.
Prescription Drugs
If OTC medications aren’t effective, your doctor may prescribe a medication called an intranasal steroid spray. This type of drug works by decreasing inflammation and swelling in the nose. It also contains corticosteroids, which reduce swelling and help prevent infection.
Natural Remedies
There are several natural remedies available to treat nasal congestion. These include things like saline sprays, steam inhalation, and nasal irrigation. Saline sprays contain salt water and can help clear mucus from the sinuses. Steam inhalation involves inhaling hot air through the nostrils. Finally, nasal irrigation uses warm water to wash out the nasal passages.
Over-The-Counter Medications
If you prefer not to use these methods, there are also some over-the-counter (OTC) medications available to treat nasal congestion such as decongestants, antihistamines, and expectorants. Decongestants work by constricting blood vessels in the nose, making them less likely to swell up with mucus. Antihistamines block histamine, a chemical released when an allergy occurs. Expectorants loosen phlegm in the lungs and throat.
Prescription Drugs
There are several different types of prescription drugs used to treat nasal congestion. These include:
• OTC medications
• Steroid sprays
• Anti-allergy medications
• Decongestant pills
• Cough medicines