What can you take to treat a runny, stuffy nose and sinus? You may want to know that there are a variety of over-the-counter (OTC) products that may be used.
In fact, the two most common of these medications are antihistamines and oral decongestants. Antihistamines are known to treat “runny nose” symptoms, and are most commonly found in allergy, cough and cold products. How they work is by blocking histamine (a chemical that is released in our body), that cause itchy, watery eyes, runny nose, and other symptoms which are commonly seen in other types of allergies. It is good to know that the most common side effect of antihistamines is drowsiness.
Also, prescription drugs and medications may interact with antihistamines to produce a more sedating effect, such as but are not limited to sleep aid, and medications used to treat anxiety. If you are living with certain medical conditions, including enlarged prostate, urinary problems, glaucoma or are currently taking certain prescription drugs, medications or alternative medicine, it is wise to consult a doctor before starting therapy with antihistamines.
On the other hand, decongestants are used to treat a stuffy or plugged up nose. How it works is by reducing swollen mucous membranes and nasal congestion, making it easier to breathe. Like antihistamines, decongestants should be used with caution if you diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, glaucoma, enlarged prostate or having overactive thyroid.
As a precaution, always consult your physician before staring any medications, prescription drugs or alternative medicine.
Reference
Antihistamins Examples of antihistamines without a prescription include those first-generation antihistamines such as brompheniramine (Dimetapp, Bromphen, Dimetane, Nasahist), chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton), clemastine (Allerhist, Tavist), and diphenhydramine (Benadryl), and a second-generation antihistamineloratadine (Claritin). Please note that Loratadine (Claritin) does not cause drowsiness. Common prescription antihistamines (all second-generation antihistamines) include cetirizine (Zyrtec), desloratadine (Clarinex), and fexofenadine (Allegra). These antihistamines (and loratadine) are less likely to cause adverse effects like drowsiness or dry mouth. Several antihistamine nasal sprays, for example, azelastine/Astelin, are also available to treat symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, and itchy nose.
Decongestants Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed), naphazoline (4-Way Fast-Acting Nasal Spray), and oxymetazoline (Afrin Nasal Spray) are examples of decongestants.
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