Sometimes, an allergic reaction causes a stuffy nose. Allergy medications often contain an antihistamine that blocks this reaction. A Cochrane review concluded that antihistamines might help manage the severity of symptoms in adults with a common cold in the first day or two of illness.
However, in the following days, they were no more helpful than a placebo. Various options are available online , but people should ask a healthcare professional for advice before using an antihistamine. It is essential to read the directions on the package and be aware of side effects. Some allergy medications can cause drowsiness, for example, so people should not drive when using them.
Are there any natural antihistamines? Learn more here. Decongestants cause the small blood vessels in the nose to narrow. This decreases the swelling in the lining of the nose and reduces the feeling of stuffiness. A Cochrane review was unable to confirm that a single dose could help relieve the symptoms of a common cold in adults, but multiple doses may have a small benefit. People should not use decongestants for longer than a week , as long-term use can actually worsen congestion.
Side effects can include increased heart rate, headache , and dry mouth. Nasal spray decongestants may also cause sneezing and burning inside the nose. Anyone with high blood pressure , diabetes, hyperthyroidism, glaucoma, or another condition should ask a doctor if it is safe to use decongestants before doing so. They are not suitable for children under 6 years of age, and they may not be suitable during pregnancy. Decongestants are available online or over the counter, and some need a prescription.
They come as nasal sprays, drops, tablets, or syrup. Learn which decongestant is best to use for each age group here. Some people find that adding moisture to the air from a cool or warm mist humidifier provides relief. However, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that this works to soothe a common cold.
Humidifiers are available for purchase online. What are some other health benefits of using a humidifier? It is always a good idea to drink plenty of water, and some people say that this helps reduce nasal congestion. However, experts have found no evidence to suggest that drinking additional fluids can help relieve symptoms, and they advise people to consume only what is comfortable.
How much water does a person need to consume every day? If your nasal discharge is any color other than clear, it could be a sign of an infection. Check out our handy table comparing conditions to colors to…. A neti pot can help you clear up nasal congestion or mucus from allergies. It's best to follow certain steps that ensure sure you use it safely and…. Parosmia is a condition that distorts one's sense of smell and taste. A variety of health conditions — most of which are related to your sinuses — can trigger a rotten smell in your nose.
Most are not serious, but some…. Loss of the sense of smell can be temporary or permanent. Nasal polyps can cause pressure, congestion, and loss of smell. Medication and surgery can both be used to treat them. Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. What Causes a Stuffy Nose? Request Appointment. Symptoms Nasal congestion. Definition Causes When to see a doctor.
Products and services. Thank you for Subscribing Our Housecall e-newsletter will keep you up-to-date on the latest health information. Please try again. Something went wrong on our side, please try again. Show references Rhinitis. Accessed Dec. Kliegman RM, et al. Allergic rhinitis. In: Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics.
Philadelphia, Pa. Peden D. An overview of rhinitis. King TE, et al. Clinical features and diagnosis of eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis Churg-Strauss.
Sexton DJ, et al. The common cold in adults: Diagnosis and clinical features. Nasal congestion and rhinorrhea. Merck Manual Professional Version. Cold versus flu. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Lemiere C, et al. Typically, a fear of people is associated with…. Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Rheumatoid Arthritis. How to Clear a Stuffy Nose. Medically reviewed by Deborah Weatherspoon, Ph. Use a humidifier. Take a shower. Stay hydrated. Use a saline spray. Drain your sinuses. Use a warm compress. Take medications. Read this next. Sinus Infection Symptoms. Medically reviewed by Judith Marcin, M. Is It Allergies or a Cold?
Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph. The Difference Between the Cold and Flu. Medically reviewed by Cameron White, M. Medically reviewed by Peggy Pletcher, M. Medically reviewed by Stacy Sampson, DO. Medically reviewed by Timothy J. Legg, Ph.
0コメント