Best Medicine For Runny Nose Due To Cold
A runny nose is a common symptom of a cold, which is caused by a viral infection. It can be a nuisance and cause discomfort, but fortunately, there are a number of over-the-counter medicines that can help relieve the symptoms of a runny nose. In this article, we will discuss some of the best medicines for a runny nose due to a cold.
1. Antihistamines
Antihistamines are commonly used to treat allergies, but they can also be effective in relieving the symptoms of a runny nose caused by a cold. They work by blocking the effects of histamine, which is a chemical released by the body in response to an allergen or infection. Some common antihistamines include:
- Loratadine (Claritin)
- Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
- Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
Antihistamines can cause drowsiness, so it's important to be careful when taking them. If you need to drive or operate heavy machinery, it's best to avoid taking them.
2. Decongestants
Decongestants are another type of medicine that can help relieve a runny nose caused by a cold. They work by constricting the blood vessels in the nasal passages, which reduces swelling and allows for easier breathing. Some common decongestants include:
- Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed)
- Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE)
Decongestants can cause side effects such as nervousness, insomnia, and an increased heart rate, so it's important to use them only as directed and to avoid taking them if you have high blood pressure, heart disease, or other medical conditions.
3. Nasal Sprays
Nasal sprays are another option for relieving a runny nose caused by a cold. They work by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages, which can help reduce congestion and promote easier breathing. Some common nasal sprays include:
- Oxymetazoline (Afrin)
- Fluticasone (Flonase)
- Mometasone (Nasonex)
Nasal sprays can cause side effects such as dryness, irritation, and nosebleeds, so it's important to use them only as directed and to avoid using them for longer than recommended.
4. Pain Relievers
Pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil) can help relieve the discomfort associated with a runny nose caused by a cold. They can also help reduce fever, which is another common symptom of a cold. It's important to use pain relievers only as directed and to avoid taking them for longer than recommended.
5. Home Remedies
In addition to over-the-counter medicines, there are a number of home remedies that can help relieve the symptoms of a runny nose caused by a cold. Some of these include:
- Drinking plenty of fluids to help thin out mucus and promote easier breathing
- Using a humidifier or steam inhalation to help moisten nasal passages and reduce congestion
- Gargling with salt water to help relieve a sore throat
- Using a saline nasal spray to help flush out mucus and reduce congestion
- Resting and getting plenty of sleep to help the body fight off the infection
While home remedies may not be as effective as over-the-counter medicines, they can still be helpful in relieving the symptoms of a runny nose caused by a cold.
Conclusion
A runny nose caused by a cold can be a nuisance, but there are a number of over-the-counter medicines and home remedies that can help relieve the symptoms. Antihistamines, decongestants, nasal sprays, and pain relievers can all be effective in reducing congestion and promoting easier breathing. It's important to use these medicines only as directed and to avoid taking them for longer than recommended. Home remedies such as drinking fluids, using a humidifier, and getting plenty of rest can also be helpful in relieving the symptoms of a runny nose caused by a cold.
