Best Medication For Sinus Pressure And Congestion

Best Medicines For Chest Congestion 2020

Congestion throughout the sinus is one thing, but congestion in the chest is a completely different problem. Giving you a heavy feeling when you breathe and a chesty quality to your cough, chest congestion can make anyone feel weak. However, for as difficult and tiring as chest congestion might feel, it is one of the most common symptoms of the common cold and flu.

Luckily, no one has to suffer through the pains of chest congestion, especially these days when affordable and accessible remedies are available. Of course, it is easy to be able to simply walk into a drugstore and ask for the best medicine for chest congestion, but choosing can be difficult with so many options available. How do you know which is the right one?

Find out how to choose the best chest decongestant by taking cues from this helpful buying guide.

Sudafed Pe Sinus Congestion Maximum Strength Non

• 36-count of sudafed pe sinus congestion maximum strength non-drowsy tablets for fast, powerful relief of sinus pressure and sinus and nasal congestion.
• This sinus congestion & pressure relief medicine also helps reduce nasal swelling to help you breathe easier, and can be taken every 4 hours as necessary for effective relief of cold and allergy symptoms.
• The maximum strength formula helps clear sinus congestion and relieve sinus pressure due to the common cold, hay fever or other upper respiratory allergies.
• Each coated tablet contains 10 milligrams of phenylephrine hcl, a nasal decongestant that provides non-drowsy symptom relief.
• From the #1 pharmacist recommended brand among oral otc decongestants, this non-drowsy decongestant can be used by adults and children 12 years and older for fast, powerful relief.

When To Call A Doctor

Most of the time, a stuffy nose will clear up on its own within a week. Nasal congestion that lasts longer may be a sign of a serious sinus infection in need of treatment. You may also want to see a doctor if the symptoms are interfering with sleep or your ability to function normally.

A stuffy nose may require medical attention if:

• You have a high fever.
• Your symptoms last longer than two weeks.
• Your nasal passages are completely blocked.
• Your skin or lips develop a bluish tinge .
• Your breathing rate is very rapid.
• You have difficulty breathing or catching your breath.

Recommended Reading: How To Check For Sinus Infection

How Are Sinus Headaches Diagnosed

Most of the time when people diagnose themselves with a sinus headache, its really a migraine. So, its important to see your healthcare provider to get an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Your healthcare provider will perform a physical exam and ask about your symptoms. If your symptoms are severe or ongoing, you may also need imaging tests. A magnetic resonance imaging test can rule out serious brain conditions. Multiple imaging tests can reveal sinus blockages and include:

• X-rays.
• Computed tomography scan.
• Nasal endoscopy .

Where Are The Sinuses Located

The sinuses are named according to their location in the skull bones:

• The frontal sinuses are located over the forehead, above the eyes on both sides.
• The maxillary sinuses are located over the cheek area, in the bone known as the maxilla, located under the eyes on both sides of the face.
• The ethmoid sinuses are located in the bone that divides the eyes and nose.
• The sphenoid sinuses are located in the sphenoid bone at the center of the skull, behind the eyes.

The sinuses are lined by mucous membranes that secrete fluid and are connected to the nasal cavity by small channels or ducts. The sinuses are sometimes collectively referred to as the paranasal sinuses because of their proximity to the nose.

Inflammation due to any cause can cause a buildup of fluid and increased sinus pressure, causing the typical symptoms of a sinus headache.

Read Also: How To Knock Out A Sinus Infection Quick

Oral And Nasal Decongestants

Over-the-counter decongestants work by shrinking blood vessels inside the nose. There are both oral and nasal formulations.

Sudafed is an oral decongestant used to relieve nasal or sinus congestion caused by the common cold, sinusitis, and respiratory allergies. Do not use Sudafed for longer than three days as it can also lead to rebound congestion.

While Sudafed is available without a prescription, it is kept behind the pharmacy counter and requires an ID to obtain. A similar drug called Sudafed PE can be purchased without hindrance but has not proven to be anywhere near as effective as pseudoephedrine.

Nasal decongestant sprays like Afrin also provide short-term relief of a stuffy nose. It should also not be used for longer than three days due to the risk of rebound congestion .

How To Tell The Difference Between Sinus Congestion And Head Congestion

The main difference between sinus congestion and head congestion is the duration of symptoms. Sinus congestion may cause a sinus infection, which comes with symptoms lasting up to four weeks. Talk to your doctor if you think you may have a sinus infection. Head congestion as part of a cold is usually gone in seven to 10 days.

Also Check: Do Antibiotics Work On Sinus Infections

When To See Your Doctor For Nasal Congestion

See your doctor for nasal congestion if your symptoms last more than ten days, dont respond to over the counter treatment and lifestyle changes, your nasal discharge is yellow or green, or if you experience a fever.

A fever is an indicator that your symptoms are a result of bacterial infection, which will require prescribed antibiotics.

Donât Miss: Symptoms Of Sinus Congestion And Pressure

Vicks Products For Nasal Congestion Relief

Nasal congestion, also known as stuffy nose, is when the lining of the nasal cavity becomes inflamed and swollen, which can cause mucus to build up. Nasal congestion is typically caused by one of two thingsâa viral infection or allergies . Learn more about nasal congestion.

To relieve your nasal congestion symptoms, look for an OTC medicine with a decongestant like Phenylephrine or Oxymetazoline. Decongestants constrict enlarged blood vessels to shrink the swollen nasal tissues causing your stuffy nose. The ingredients label on the back of Vicks products will give the name of the active ingredient, and identify what type of active ingredient it is, to help clear up any confusion on the shelf.

Also Check: What Medicine Is For Sinus Infection

Allegra Adult 24 Hour Allergy Relief 70

• Target sinus pain comparable to sudafed pe congestion our nasal decongestant can relieve pressure on front, maxillary, ethmoid or sphenoid regions in the head..
• Breathe easier, feel better releasing sinus pressure and sinus congestion can help relieve headaches, migraines, tension and stress so you can refocus with clarity..
• Powerful sinus pressure relief this non-drowsy decongestant can help relieve painful pressure and nasal congestion to help you breathe and think more clearly..
• Maximum strength support packed with 10 mg of phenylephrine hcl, our nasal decongestant tablets help relieve pressure caused by colds, allergies, or hay fever..
• Fast-acting support every bottle contains 24 tablets that work quickly to reduce nasal swelling and inflammation for up to 4 hours offering day or night protection..

What Can I Do About Recurring Sinus Headaches

Many sinus headaches, especially those that recur, are actually migraines. But its smart to see your healthcare provider to figure out the cause of your headaches.

You may find that the best long-term solution is figuring out what triggers your migraine headaches so you can avoid them. Its helpful to keep a headache diary to track potential triggers. Triggers you can control include:

• Alcohol.
• Specific foods, such as chocolate, red wine or strong cheese.
• Lack of sleep.

Also Check: Advil Cold And Sinus Relief

How Can You Tell If You Have An Acute Sinus Infection

Its tempting to label every nasal issue as a sinus infection, but thats not always the case. Common symptoms of acute sinusitis include:

• Headaches and sometimes, toothaches
• Fever
• Halitosis

Many people believe that green snot means you have a bacterial sinus infection, curable only with antibiotics. Not true. Sage-colored mucus is common with viral infections and allergies and can happen when snot sits in your face for a while before being expelled.

A trip to your doctor may be necessary if you have a bacterial infection, but it can often be difficult to distinguish between that and a viral infection. If your symptoms last longer than 10 days or improve before worsening again, call your HCP.

If you suddenly experience any of these symptoms, its a sign to seek medical attention immediately, even if theyve been present for fewer than seven days:

• Abrupt vision changes
• Continual high fever

Is Pseudoephedrine Safe Why Is It Sold Behind The Counter

Pseudoephedrine is safe and effective when taken as directed. But some people use OTC pseudoephedrine illegally. They combine it with other products to make methamphetamine . Meth is an illegal and dangerous street drug. To help keep people from making meth, OTC medicines that contain pseudoephedrine are sold behind the counter. In most states, you dont need a prescription from your doctor to buy these medicines. But you will have to ask your pharmacist for them. Additional restrictions include:

• Limit on the amount you can purchase each month.
• You must show photo identification when purchasing the medicine.
• Stores must record and keep personal information about customers who buy the medicine.

Some states have more requirements for medicines containing pseudoephedrine. These requirements may include a doctors prescription.

You May Like: Will Z Pack Treat A Sinus Infection

Vicks Products For Sinus Congestion And Sinus Pressure Relief

Sinus congestion occurs when the lining of the sinus cavity becomes inflamed and swollen. When the sinuses are swollen, it can bring on symptoms like stuffy nose and/or pressure or pain around the forehead, in-between your eyes, on either side of your nose, or in your upper mouth. Like nasal congestion, it is often caused by allergies or a cold virus. Sometimes, sinus pressure can also lead to a sinus headache as a result of mucus built up in the sinuses. Learn more about sinus congestion.

What Causes A Sinus Infection

A sinus infection can be caused by several different things including:

Seasonal allergies A deviated septum: The septum is the part of the nose that divides it into right and left nostrils. Some people have crooked or deviated septums, which makes them more susceptible to sinus infections. Nasal polyps Respiratory tract infections

Sinus infections may be acute or chronic .

Also Check: How To Stop A Sinus Infection Fast

How Is A Sinus Headache Diagnosed

A sinus headache can sometimes be confused with a migraine or tension headache. If youve recently had a cold, allergies, or other symptoms that are usually associated with sinusitis that can indicate that your pain may be from a sinus headache. But if pain is your only symptom, its probably not a sinus headache.

If an underlying issue is causing your sinusitis and sinus headaches, your doctor may recommend more testing. For example, if allergies are causing your issues, allergy testing may be recommended.

Allergy Medicine Treating The Bodys Adverse Reaction To A Substance

A good percentage of the worlds population is affected by an allergy.

An allergy is the bodys reaction to a substance that doesnt cause much harm to other people, but it does to you. These allergens include dust, pollen, chemicals, foods, animal fur and insect stings.

Allergic reactions include:

• Skin rashes dermatitis, hives
• Excessive sweating
• Bloated stomach, intestinal disturbances, and others. In rare instances, the immune systems react so strongly to the offending substance that death occurs. The most deadly reaction occurs when the allergen gets into the bloodstream and causes an anaphylactic reaction respiratory distress, severe itching, and shock.

Allergies can be debilitating and sinusitis is often so painful it can lead to time off from work. Acute sinusitis will develop quickly and lasts up to 10 days while chronic sinusitis is a long-term inflammation of the sinuses.

In adults, chronic sinusitis can lead to nasal swelling. Allergies cause histamine to be released and this causes the inner lining of the nose to swell and prevent sinus drainage. People with asthma and immune system problems develop chronic sinusitis more often than others.

Don’t Miss: Wal Phed Sinus And Allergy

What Kind Of Doctor Or Other Healthcare Professional Treats Sinus Headache

• Frequently, sinus headaches are managed by primary care physicians including those that specialize in internal medicine, family medicine, or pediatrics.
• For complicated cases, an ear, nose, and throat specialist may be consulted.
• With unusual infections, such as fungal infections, a specialist in infectious diseases may be consulted.

What Causes Pressure In Your Sinuses

Sinus pressure is caused by the swelling and inflammation of the membranes inside your sinus passages. This irritation causes the membranes to produce more mucus to try to flush out whatever is causing the inflammation. The excess mucus then adds to the pressure inside the sinus cavities.

Some trigger of sinus pressure include:

• Allergies
• Infection caused by a virus such as the cold or flu
• Infection caused by bacteria
• Tumors

You May Like: Saline Solution For Sinus Pressure

Urgent Advice: Call 111 For Advice Now If:

• you take too much pseudoephedrine

Taking too much pseudoephedrine can be dangerous.

It can make you restless or your heartbeat fast, and make you feel sick or vomit. You may also have difficulty peeing.

Go to 111.nhs.uk or call 111.

If you need to go to A& E, do not drive yourself. Get someone else to drive you or call for an ambulance.

Take the pseudoephedrine packet or leaflet inside it, plus any remaining medicine, with you.

You May Like: Who To See For Sinus Issues

What Can I Do

While you wait for your infection to run its course, you can take steps at home to feel better.

Look into nasal sprays. Store-bought saline nasal spray loosens up mucus, temporarily clearing it from your nasal passages. A steroid nasal spray like fluticasone may help tame inflammation, especially if you have underlying allergies. Unsure about using a steroid? Follow package directions and go to your HCP with questions.

Be wary of decongestant nasal sprays, like oxymetazoline . Using them for longer than three days could cause rebound symptoms persistent stuffiness eased only by the spray itself. Dryness and addiction are also possibilities.

Embrace sinus rinses like the neti pot. Many sinus infection veterans swear by nasal irrigation systems, such as plastic squeeze bottles or teakettle-shaped neti pots. These devices are filled with a sterile saline solution and used to flush snot from your sinuses.

Neti pots and their ilk are widely available and typically safe, as long as you handle them properly. Dont use water directly from your tap. Instead use distilled water, a sterile saline solution or water that has been boiled and then cooled.

Try over-the-counter medicines. Experts recommend analgesics including acetaminophen , ibuprofen and aspirin to ease pain, as well as decongestants like pseudoephedrine to alleviate the pressure of congestion.

Finally, you may want to avoid flying or scuba diving, since either can aggravate sinus pain.

Also Check: Can Sinus Pain Cause Tooth Pain

Natural Remedies For Sinus Congestion

When you’re feeling stuffed up and miserable, getting to the drugstore seems almost impossible. Fortunately for you, there are a number of home remedies for sinus congestion relief, here’s three:

1. Humidity:Keeping your nasal passages moist when you’re experiencing sinus congestion may help to relieve that “stuffy” feeling. To do this, apply a warm, wet towel against your face or run hot water in the shower to unblock the sinuses. You could also use a humidifier for the same purpose.

2. Neti pot: A neti pot looks like a miniature teapot with a long spout. With the help of saline or a saltwater solution, these tiny nasal irrigation devices are used to treat congested sinuses, allergies, and the common cold. You can purchase a neti pot online or at your nearest health food or drugstore. Note of caution: Tap water isn’t safe to use as it’s not filtered or treated and may contain material that could cause infection or irritation.

3. Aromatherapy: Aromatherapy is a holistic healing treatment that uses essential oils to reduce pain or improve sleep. While there’s still research that needs to be done, some studies suggest specific essential oils may relieve symptoms of sinus congestion. According to the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy , 1,8 cineole, the main component of eucalyptus oil, has been proven to clear airways of mucus and is a natural cough suppressant.

Others Ways Of Avoiding And Minimizing Sinus Problems

Except those best sinus medicines mentioned above, there are many other effective home remedies that help you alleviate sinus discomforts.

You May Like: Advil Cold Sinus And Flu