Uses and Limitations of Decongestants
…and what to know
By Lisa Monroe
With cold and flu season around the corner you may find yourself suffering with congestion and shopping for a relief medication. Decongestants are a common choice. So, let’s take a look at the various type of decongestants, and how they work, as well as the possible side effects.
What Causes Congestion?
First off, it is helpful to have a good understanding of what causes congestion. Congestion is a symptom of colds, upper respiratory infections (URI) or allergies. This may occur when blood vessels in the linings of the sinus become enlarged and swollen with mucus, blocking the nasal passageways.
How Do Decongestants Work?
Most decongestants are designed to cause blood vessels to shrink allowing the nasal passages to open by decreasing inflammation and swelling. When you are shopping around for decongestants you will also see antihistamines in the pharmacy aisle. They work differently.
What are Antihistamines?
Antihistamines are used to relieve allergy symptoms. They are designed to block a chemical in your body called histamine. Histamine causes blood vessels to enlarge, leading to the inflammation and itching that commonly occurs during an allergic reaction. This type of medication is more frequently found in oral form rather than in nasal spray. Certain antihistamines can cause drowsiness.
Types of Decongestants
Many decongestants are marketed as cold remedies and may contain a combination of medications. Meaning, they may pair a decongestant together with an antihistamine, which can cause jitteriness and even sleepiness. Decongestants can come in the form of capsules, tablets, or nasal sprays. Nasal sprays are often the preferred choice, as they can provide more immediate relief and may have fewer side effects, as they are localized to a specific area. Capsules and tablets need to be absorbed into your body thru the stomach, first, which is why it takes longer to feel relief.
What are the Possible Side Effects of Nasal Decongestants?
It is advised to consult with your physician or pharmacist prior to using many of the medicated nasal decongestants, including the over-the-counter options, as using them for more than a few days, may cause a decongestion “rebounding effect” (also known as “nasal spray addiction”), as well as other side effects.
In addition, decongestant nasal sprays may be dangerous for patients with various health conditions, including glaucoma, heart conditions, high blood pressure, diabetes, and enlarged prostate. Specific decongestants may not be recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. It is also important to ask your healthcare professional about any possible interactions with other medications you may be taking.
Specific Types of Decongestant Medications
Phenylephrine OTC is used to treat nasal congestion and sinus pressure. Some side effects can be nasal stinging, increased nasal discharge, palpitations and anxiety. It is not to be used for children under 12 years of age, without proper medical advice.
Pseudoephedrine is used to shrink blood vessels in the nasal passages. Some side effects include headaches, dry mouth, nausea, nervousness, insomnia and palpitations. This product is not to be used for children under 6 years of age unless specifically directed by their doctor. Long-acting tablets/capsules are not for use in children under age 12.
Intranasal Decongestants are a type of decongestant which may come with less risk of cardiovascular effects than oral medications, but may cause sneezing, nasal stinging, dryness of the nose and throat, and a “rebounding effect, causing a feeling of continued congestion. These are not meant to be used for more than a few days.
Intranasal Corticosteroids are cortisone-like medicines taken to reduce swelling and excess mucus, caused from inflammation. These nasal sprays are typically safe for short-term use. Long-term use may result in swelling and itching in the nose, stinging, dry, crusty nasal passages, nose bleeds, throat dryness and irritation.
It is important to consult with your child’s pediatrician before using any type of decongestant, due to the potentially dangerous side effects. Although decongestants may effectively reduce inflammation and swelling in your nose and sinus passages, there are many possible side effects to be aware of, and it is essential to speak with your physician prior to use. Especially where your children are concerned. Let’s look at some safe and natural options.
Natural Solutions to Relieve Congestion
Steam. Steam will add moisture to the air and help to moisten your nasal and sinus passages thinning out mucus. Taking hot showers and breathing in the steam is one way to reduce the pressure. Using a humidifier can also be helpful.
Saline Flush. Saline sprays contain salt that can increase moisture in your nose as well as decrease sinus pressure. If you are seeking an all-natural, chemical-free solution to relieve congestion you may want to consider Pressureze Nasal Mist. Pressureze is the first natural nasal spray to focus on clearing, both, sinus and ear canals, simultaneously.
Elevation. Laying flat on your back can lead to mucus buildup in your nasal passages and interfere with your ability to sleep. Instead, prop your head up with pillows to keep your head above your heart. This position can prevent sinus buildup and assist in more comfortable breathing.
Be Proactive! Pressureze Nasal Mist was designed to quickly get to the source of the troubled areas by taking a proactive stance. Use Pressureze daily to keep your nasal passages and sinuses clear.
Summing It Up
Being congested is not pleasant, as it can make it difficult to breathe, sleep, speak clearly and even enjoy a good meal. While there are many decongestants to choose from, you need to be aware of their possible side effects, health risks and drug interactions.
In many cases, simple, natural remedies can be very effective in reducing symptoms and providing relief. Steam, elevated sleep position and an all-natural product such as Pressureze Nasal Spray can relieve your stuffy nose, runny nose, post-nasal-drip, and stuffy sinuses. You don’t have to suffer with congestion, as there is a safe and natural solution a click away!