Over The Counter Medicine To Stop A Runny Nose
Having a runny nose can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience. It can make you feel tired, irritable, and even embarrassed, especially when you're in public. Luckily, there are many over-the-counter (OTC) medicines that can help you stop a runny nose and relieve other symptoms associated with it. From antihistamines to decongestants, here are some of the best OTC medicines to stop a runny nose.
What Causes A Runny Nose?
A runny nose can be caused by many things, including allergies, the common cold, and the flu. When you have an allergic reaction, your body produces histamine, a chemical that causes your nose to run, your eyes to itch and your throat to feel scratchy. The common cold and flu viruses also cause your nose to produce more mucus, leading to a runny nose.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines are a type of medicine that block the effects of histamine, which can help reduce the amount of mucus your body produces. Some common antihistamines include loratadine (Claritin), cetirizine (Zyrtec), and fexofenadine (Allegra). These medicines are available in pill, liquid, and nasal spray forms. If you have allergies, taking an antihistamine can help reduce your symptoms, including a runny nose.
Nasal Decongestants
Nasal decongestants are another type of medicine that can help reduce a runny nose. They work by narrowing the blood vessels in your nose, which can reduce swelling and congestion. Some common nasal decongestants include oxymetazoline (Afrin) and phenylephrine (Sudafed). These medicines are available in pill, liquid, and nasal spray forms. It's important to note that nasal decongestants should not be used for more than three days in a row, as they can cause rebound congestion.
Nasal Saline Sprays
Nasal saline sprays are a natural way to help reduce a runny nose. They work by flushing out mucus and allergens from your nasal passages, which can help reduce inflammation and congestion. Some common nasal saline sprays include saline solution and Neti pots. These medicines are available over the counter and are safe for most people to use.
Cough Suppressants
Cough suppressants are a type of medicine that can help reduce the amount of mucus your body produces, which can help reduce a runny nose. Some common cough suppressants include dextromethorphan (Robitussin) and codeine. These medicines are available in pill and liquid forms. It's important to note that cough suppressants should not be used for more than a few days, as they can be addictive.
Conclusion
If you have a runny nose, there are many over-the-counter medicines that can help you stop it. From antihistamines to nasal saline sprays, these medicines can help reduce the amount of mucus your body produces and relieve other symptoms associated with a runny nose. However, if your symptoms persist for more than a week, or if you have other symptoms such as fever or difficulty breathing, you should see a doctor.