How to treat nasal congestion
How to treat nasal congestion with medication (Nasal decongestant)
The drug increases the secretion of norepinephrine. (Norepinephrine) causes the contraction of blood vessels in the nasal cavity. Reduces swelling of the nasal septum Therefore expanding the nasal cavity space Feeling clear Able to breathe easier
In Thailand, there are 2 types of nasal congestion relief medication: nasal spray and oral spray. With different usage forms as follows
1. Nasal sprays relief medication
- The active ingredient is faster than oral type, which acts within 3-5 minutes but is shorter than the oral type.
- The side effect of the drug is that it may cause irritation of the nasal septum. If medication is used often Or used continuously for a long time
- Be aware that nasal sprays should not be used for more than 3-5 days, as they may cause more severe nasal congestion (Rebound congestion).
2. Oral nasal congestion medication
- It takes longer for the drug to be sprayed, ie it takes 3-6 hours for the drug to work. But can work longer And causing nasal irritation less
- Does not cause severe nasal congestion When using medication for a long time
- Caution is that oral drugs affect the work of the heart and blood vessels. Therefore, this drug should not be used in elderly patients with cardiovascular disease. And high blood pressure
Physical remedy for nasal congestion
People with stuffy nose can initially relieve the symptoms on their own. By following the instructions as follows
- Inhale or gently blow out the snot.
- Avoid substances that may cause allergies or cause more irritation, such as dust mites, cigarette smoke, or sudden change in weather and humidity.
- Drink enough water It may help the mucus to not stick to the ducts or block the nasal passages.
- Use a humidifier or vaporizer. To increase moisture in the room
- Use a cloth moistened with warm water and wring it out onto the face. Which may help to open tight nasal cavities And may make breathing easier
- Rinse the nose with saline solution. To rinse the mucus out Makes the nasal cavity moist and not dry By being careful about the cleanliness of the equipment used
- Raise your head higher than normal during sleep at night Because it may help to breathe easier
- For nasal congestion in infants and young children Use a squeezed rubber ball to gently suck out the mucus.
In addition, if there is a continuous runny nose And have sneezing, itching, or watery eyes may take over-the-counter antibiotics By strictly following the instructions on the label.
What causes nasal congestion?
Nasal congestion can be caused by any reason that causes tissue in the nose to become inflamed and irritated. The main factors that are found are as follows
- Colds or respiratory infections such as common colds Influenza And sinusitis, etc.
- Nose allergy Or hay fever
- Chronic rhinitis Which may be caused by allergies or not
- Hemorrhoids, which are abnormal growths of the nasal septum or sinus cavity. Causing a soft lump sticking out Until causing difficulty in breathing
In addition, nasal congestion may also be caused by other causes, such as swelling of the adrenal glands. Getting a nose injury Inhalation of smoke dimmer There are foreign objects entering the nose. Have tumors in the nasal cavity or inside the nose Thyroid disorders, pregnancy, stress, asthma, including the use of certain drugs, etc.
What are the symptoms of stuffy nose that should see a doctor?
Although may initially relieve nasal congestion by oneself But patients should immediately see a doctor if congested nose for more than 10 days without knowing the cause Including if having a high fever Feels only one side of your nose There was blood mixed with mucus. Clear mucus after an injury to the head. Or have certain symptoms that may be signs of bacterial infection, such as having a large amount of yellow or green mucus, fever, or sinus pain etc.
Nasal congestion in children younger than 2 months. If the parents find that the baby has nasal congestion, fever or runny nose that may affect sucking. Or those symptoms causing the child to breathe Should immediately take the child to the doctor immediately.
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