Best Over The Counter Medicine For Shortness Of Breath
Shortness of breath is a common respiratory problem that can be caused by a variety of factors such as allergies, anxiety, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and heart disease. Shortness of breath can be scary and can affect a person's ability to perform daily activities. While prescription medications can help alleviate the symptoms of shortness of breath, over the counter (OTC) medicines can also provide relief. In this article, we will discuss the best OTC medicine for shortness of breath.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines are commonly used to treat allergies and can also help alleviate shortness of breath caused by allergies. Antihistamines work by blocking the histamine receptors in the body, which reduces the symptoms of allergies such as shortness of breath, runny nose, and itchy eyes. Some common OTC antihistamines that can be used for shortness of breath include cetirizine (Zyrtec), loratadine (Claritin), and fexofenadine (Allegra).
Bronchodilators
Bronchodilators are medications that relax the muscles in the airways, making it easier to breathe. They are commonly used to treat asthma and COPD. Some OTC bronchodilators that can be used for shortness of breath include epinephrine (Primatene Mist) and ephedrine (Bronkaid). However, these medications should be used with caution and only as directed, as they can cause side effects such as increased heart rate and blood pressure.
Nasal Decongestants
Nasal decongestants are commonly used to relieve nasal congestion caused by allergies or a cold. They work by narrowing the blood vessels in the nasal passages, which reduces swelling and congestion. Some OTC nasal decongestants that can be used for shortness of breath include pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) and phenylephrine (Sudafed PE). However, these medications should be used with caution and only as directed, as they can cause side effects such as increased heart rate and blood pressure.
Anxiety Medications
Shortness of breath can also be caused by anxiety. Anxiety medications can help reduce the symptoms of anxiety, including shortness of breath. Some OTC anxiety medications that can be used for shortness of breath include diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and doxylamine (Unisom). However, these medications should be used with caution and only as directed, as they can cause drowsiness.
Pain Relievers
Shortness of breath can also be caused by pain. Pain relievers can help alleviate the symptoms of pain, including shortness of breath. Some OTC pain relievers that can be used for shortness of breath caused by pain include acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil). However, these medications should be used with caution and only as directed, as they can cause side effects such as stomach upset and liver damage.
Conclusion
Shortness of breath can be a scary and uncomfortable symptom. While prescription medications can help alleviate the symptoms of shortness of breath, there are also several OTC medications that can provide relief. Antihistamines can help alleviate shortness of breath caused by allergies, bronchodilators can help relax the muscles in the airways, nasal decongestants can help relieve nasal congestion, anxiety medications can help reduce the symptoms of anxiety, and pain relievers can help alleviate the symptoms of pain. However, it is important to use these medications with caution and only as directed, as they can cause side effects.