Best Medicine For Chest Congestion Cough And Runny Nose
Chest congestion, cough, and runny nose are common symptoms of many respiratory illnesses such as cold, flu, allergies, bronchitis, and pneumonia. These symptoms can be uncomfortable and debilitating, making it difficult to breathe, sleep, and function normally. Fortunately, there are many over-the-counter and prescription medicines available to relieve chest congestion, cough, and runny nose. In this article, we will discuss the best medicine for chest congestion cough and runny nose.
Decongestants
Decongestants are medicines that help relieve nasal and sinus congestion by narrowing the blood vessels in the nasal passages. This reduces swelling and opens up the airways, making it easier to breathe. Decongestants are available in oral, nasal spray, and eye drop forms. The most common decongestants include:
- Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed)
- Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE)
- Oxymetazoline (Afrin)
- Xylometazoline (Otrivin)
Decongestants can cause side effects such as insomnia, nervousness, increased heart rate, and high blood pressure. Therefore, it is important to use them only as directed and avoid them if you have certain medical conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and glaucoma.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines are medicines that help relieve runny nose, sneezing, and itching caused by allergies. They work by blocking the action of histamine, a chemical released by the immune system in response to allergens. Antihistamines can be taken orally or applied topically to the skin. The most common antihistamines include:
- Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
- Loratadine (Claritin)
- Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
- Fexofenadine (Allegra)
Antihistamines can cause side effects such as drowsiness, dry mouth, blurred vision, and constipation. Therefore, it is important to use them only as directed and avoid them if you are driving or operating heavy machinery.
Cough Suppressants
Cough suppressants are medicines that help relieve cough caused by irritation or inflammation in the throat and lungs. They work by blocking the cough reflex in the brain. Cough suppressants are available in oral and liquid forms. The most common cough suppressants include:
- Dextromethorphan (Robitussin DM)
- Benzonatate (Tessalon Perles)
- Codeine (Prescription only)
- Hydrocodone (Prescription only)
Cough suppressants can cause side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, and constipation. Therefore, it is important to use them only as directed and avoid them if you have certain medical conditions such as asthma, emphysema, and chronic bronchitis.
Expectorants
Expectorants are medicines that help loosen and thin mucus in the chest and throat, making it easier to cough up. They work by increasing the production of fluid in the respiratory tract and stimulating the cough reflex. Expectorants are available in oral and liquid forms. The most common expectorants include:
- Guaifenesin (Mucinex)
- Bromhexine (Bisolvon)
- Acetylcysteine (Mucomyst)
- Ammonium chloride (Prescription only)
Expectorants can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and stomach upset. Therefore, it is important to use them only as directed and avoid them if you have certain medical conditions such as liver disease and kidney disease.
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are medicines that help reduce inflammation in the airways caused by asthma, allergies, and other respiratory conditions. They work by blocking the production of inflammatory chemicals in the body. Corticosteroids are available in oral, nasal spray, and inhaler forms. The most common corticosteroids include:
- Prednisone (Prescription only)
- Fluticasone (Flonase)
- Budesonide (Pulmicort)
- Mometasone (Nasonex)
Corticosteroids can cause side effects such as weight gain, high blood pressure, and increased risk of infection. Therefore, it is important to use them only as directed and avoid them if you have certain medical conditions such as diabetes, osteoporosis, and glaucoma.
Conclusion
There are many medicines available to relieve chest congestion, cough, and runny nose caused by respiratory illnesses. Decongestants, antihistamines, cough suppressants, expectorants, and corticosteroids are some of the most common medicines used to treat these symptoms. It is important to use these medicines only as directed and avoid them if you have certain medical conditions or are taking other medications that may interact with them. If your symptoms persist or worsen, consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation and treatment.