Best Over The Counter Medicine For Nasal And Chest Congestion
Dealing with nasal and chest congestion can be frustrating and uncomfortable. Congestion can make it difficult to breathe, cause headaches, and make it difficult to get a good night's sleep. Fortunately, there are a variety of over the counter medicines that can help alleviate the symptoms of congestion. In this article, we will go over the best over the counter medicines for nasal and chest congestion.
What Causes Nasal and Chest Congestion?
Nasal and chest congestion can be caused by a variety of factors including allergies, the common cold, flu, sinus infections, and respiratory infections. When you are congested, the lining of your nasal passages and sinuses become inflamed and produce excess mucus. This can make it difficult to breathe and cause discomfort.
Decongestants
Decongestants are one of the most common over the counter medicines used to treat nasal and chest congestion. They work by narrowing the blood vessels in the nasal passages, which reduces swelling and congestion. Decongestants are available in pill, liquid, and nasal spray form. Some common decongestants include:
- Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed)
- Phenylephrine (Sudafed PE)
- Oxymetazoline (Afrin)
- Xylometazoline (Sinex)
It's important to note that decongestants can cause side effects such as increased heart rate, high blood pressure, and insomnia. They are also not recommended for people with certain medical conditions, such as high blood pressure, glaucoma, or prostate problems. If you are unsure if decongestants are safe for you to use, it's best to consult with your doctor.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines are another type of over the counter medicine that can be used to treat nasal and chest congestion. They work by blocking the effects of histamine, which is a chemical that is released by the body during an allergic reaction. Antihistamines are available in pill, liquid, and nasal spray form. Some common antihistamines include:
- Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
- Loratadine (Claritin)
- Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
- Fexofenadine (Allegra)
Antihistamines can cause side effects such as drowsiness, dry mouth, and dizziness. They are also not recommended for people with certain medical conditions, such as glaucoma, high blood pressure, or prostate problems. If you are unsure if antihistamines are safe for you to use, it's best to consult with your doctor.
Nasal Saline Sprays
Nasal saline sprays are a natural and safe way to relieve nasal congestion. They work by moistening the nasal passages and thinning out mucus, which makes it easier to breathe. Nasal saline sprays are available in spray or drop form. Some common nasal saline sprays include:
- Simply Saline
- NeilMed Sinus Rinse
- Ayr Saline Nasal Drops
- Xlear Nasal Spray
Nasal saline sprays are generally safe to use and do not cause side effects. They can be used as often as needed to relieve congestion. However, if you have a medical condition that affects your sinuses, such as a deviated septum, it's best to consult with your doctor before using nasal saline sprays.
Cough Suppressants
Cough suppressants are over the counter medicines that can be used to relieve chest congestion and cough. They work by suppressing the cough reflex, which reduces the urge to cough. Cough suppressants are available in pill, liquid, and lozenge form. Some common cough suppressants include:
- Dextromethorphan (Robitussin)
- Benzonatate (Tessalon Perles)
- Codeine (Tylenol with Codeine)
It's important to note that cough suppressants should not be used if you are coughing up mucus. Coughing is the body's way of getting rid of excess mucus, and suppressing the cough reflex can cause the mucus to build up in the lungs. If you are unsure if a cough suppressant is safe for you to use, it's best to consult with your doctor.
Conclusion
Nasal and chest congestion can be uncomfortable, but there are a variety of over the counter medicines that can help alleviate the symptoms. Decongestants, antihistamines, nasal saline sprays, and cough suppressants are all effective ways to relieve congestion. It's important to read the labels carefully and follow the instructions, as some medicines can cause side effects or interact with other medications. If your symptoms persist or worsen, it's best to consult with your doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.