Thursday, March 28, 2024

Will Expectorant Help Sinus Congestion

What To Look For When Buying Otc Sinus Decongestants

Watch Cryotherapy to Treat Chronic Nasal Congestion

When youre figuring out which decongestant to buy, youll need to determine whats causing your congestion.

If its allergies, youll probably want a product that contains an antihistamine ingredient like diphenhydramine. Antihistamines target your bodys immune response to allergens like pollen. Antihistamines usually make the person taking them a bit drowsy, so keep in mind taking them at any time other than bedtime may have you needing a nap.

If you have cold or flu symptoms, you may be looking for a product that includes phenylephrine or pseudoephedrine. These ingredients work by shrinking your blood vessels, which can help you breathe more easily and reduce the symptoms of a sinus headache or a stuffy nose.

However, both of these ingredients can cause you to feel restless and can make it difficult to fall asleep. These types of drugs can also make you nauseous. Generally, phenylephrine may have fewer serious side effects than pseudoephedrine. You should always consult a doctor before taking these meds if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Some OTC sinus decongestant formulas include both antihistamines and decongestant ingredients, and some add pain relief ingredients such as ibuprofen to their formula. Its best to treat for symptoms that you have, not for additional symptoms that you dont have.

Treating your congestion with OTC products doesnt always provide relief. You should seek professional medical care if you experience any of the following:

What Are The Different Types Of Sinus Infections

Sinusitis is categorized based on how long the condition lasts as well as its frequency:

  • Acute sinusitis usually lasts a few weeks, but less than a month. There is a subcategory of acute sinusitis, called recurrent acute sinusitis, which occurs when someone gets four or more sinus infections in a year, with symptoms resolving after each one.
  • Subacute sinusitis lasts one to three months.
  • Chronic sinusitis lasts three months or more.

When Should You Seek Emergency Medical Attention

According to Mayo Clinic, here are the emergency warning signs associated with COVID, which indicate a person should call 9-1-1 and seek medical assistance immediately:

  • Trouble breathing
  • ACTIVE INGREDIENTS: This product contains acetaminophen
  • POWERFUL NIGHTTIME RELIEF: This cold and flu medicine
  • PAIN RELIEVER AND FEVER REDUCER: Relieves sore throat,
  • COUGH SUPPRESSANT: This nighttime cold and flu relief
  • ANTIHISTAMINE: Helps relieve runny nose and sneezing

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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

Drug Interactions Of Sudafed Vs Mucinex

Mucinex Fast

Patients who take a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor , such as selegiline or tranylcypromine, should not use Sudafed at the same time, or for two weeks after stopping the MAOI.

Sudafed also interacts with certain antidepressants such as Elavil or Desyrel . You should also check with your doctor if you take certain drugs such as Xanax , headache medication such as Fioricet, ADHD medications, and painkillers. The list of medications that may potentially interact with Sudafed is too long to list here consult your healthcare provider for more information.

Mucinex alone does not have any significant drug interactions, but there are drug interactions with the combination products that contain guaifenesin with other medications, such as Mucinex-DM or Mucinex-D. Consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

Drug class
No

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Mucinex Expectorant And Cough Suppressant Tablets

Another top pick for chest congestion medicine comes from the same brand Mucinex. The main difference between Mucinex DM Maximum Strenght 12-Hour Expectorant and Cough Suppressant and the first on the list is that they work differently on chest congestion. This product works to suppress a cough stopping any chest irritation that might be causing you to cough in the first place.

This product effectively loosens mucus with guaifenesin and prevents the coughing reflex with dextromethorphan an ingredient lacking in the first option. Mucinex is particularly ideal for people with chest congestion who experience irritating, persistent, and troubling coughing episodes.

How To Relieve A Head Cold And Sinus Congestion

Though there are some differences between head congestion and sinus congestion, the following tips can help provide relief from your symptoms. Be sure to talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.

  • Drink plenty of water: Water can help thin mucus, which is more likely to drain.
  • Make a wrap: Applying a warm towel to your head to ease swollen tissues and relieve pressure.
  • Get steamy: Inhaling steam helps keep nasal passages moist and assists with drainage.
  • Find relief with SUDAFED®: SUDAFED PE® Head Congestion + Pain can help relievethe pain and pressure associated with head congestion while SUDAFED PE® Sinus Pressure + Pain with acetaminophen can help provide relief from sinus pain and pressure.

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Can I Use Sudafed Or Mucinex While Pregnant

Consult with your healthcare provider before taking any medication during pregnancy. Generally, Sudafed cannot be taken in the first trimester but can be taken occasionally during the second and third trimester provided you do not have heart disease, high blood pressure, etc.

Sudafed-PE is not recommended in pregnancy.

Mucinex can usually be used safely in pregnancy. Again, be sure to check with your doctor before using Sudafed or Mucinex while pregnant.

Is There A Non

ClariFix fixes chronic nasal congestion

Second- and third-generation antihistamines, like Claritin and Allegra, are advertised as non-drowsy antihistamines. Studies have found that while second- and third-generation antihistamines can have some sedation effects on individuals, it is to a lesser extent than the first-generation antihistamines.

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Is The Best Cold Medicine For Nasal Congestion Right For Your Needs

The question that you have to ask yourself before buying any of the best cold medicine for nasal congestion is whether or not they will suit your needs. Besides, you must clearly define what your needs and purposes are. From there, you can choose the best product and serve it according to your requirements.

Tips To Prevent Sinus Infections

In order to avoid ear pain and temporary hearing loss due to clogged ears as a result of sinus infections one must prevent sinus infections. Here are some tips to help you prevent sinus infections and avoid the complications associated with it.

  • Control your allergies.
  • Keep hydrated, which keeps mucus thin.
  • Reduce alcohol consumption, which can worsen mucus.
  • Minimize exposure to people with cold or flu.
  • Always wash your hands and avoid germs.
  • Avoid chlorinated swimming pools.
  • Take a nasal spray or decongestant prior to flying.
  • Dont smoke, which can aggravate sinusitis, or quit smoking.

These tips can better help protect you against sinus infections. If you do develop a sinus infection, begin treatment right away to reduce complications.

Related: Facts about sinus headaches

Mohan Garikiparithi got his degree in medicine from Osmania University . He practiced clinical medicine for over a decade before he shifted his focus to the field of health communications. During his active practice he served as the head of the Dept. of Microbiology in a diagnostic centre in India. On a three-year communications program in Germany, Mohan developed a keen interest in German Medicine , and other alternative systems of medicine. He now advocates treating different medical conditions without the use of traditional drugs. An ardent squash player, Mohan believes in the importance of fitness and wellness.

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Rinse With A Neti Pot And Saline Solution

Although these teapot-shaped devices may seem like the latest trend in alternative medicine, the neti pot is anything but new. Used for centuries by yoga and Ayurvedic practitioners in India, nasal irrigation is a gentle and effective way to clear the nasal passages of mucus and allergens. Trying any method that delivers salt water to the nose is a good way to start relieving congestion, says Stringer.

To use this natural remedy, fill the neti pot with a saline solution made of warm water and salt, then insert the spout into one nostril while you tilt your head to the other side, allowing the solution to flow up into your nasal passage and then out the other nostril. When making the saline solution, pharmaceutical grade salt is recommended.

Neti pots are generally inexpensive theyre available in health food stores for around $10 to $20 and research shows that they work well to relieve congestion. Researchers at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, who studied adults with chronic nasal and sinus problems, found that people treated with nasal irrigation had greater improvement of symptoms over two months than those treated with saline sprays.

In addition, researchers in China found that nasal irrigation with saline reduced the need for steroid sprays in children with allergies. Neti pots are safe to use on a daily basis.

Where Are The Sinuses Located

Mucinex Max Strength 12

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.

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Talk With Your Doctor

Mucinex D can help most people relieve chest and nasal congestion without side effects that are harmful or worrisome. However, this is not true for everyone, especially if you have certain medical conditions or take other drugs.

If youre unsure if Mucinex is right for you, ask your doctor. And if you cant take Mucinex D, check out the best natural cough remedies and the best natural antihistamines.

What Home Remedies Can Help Relieve Sinus Congestion

When your nose is stuffy and congested, you can keep your nasal passages and sinuses moist by:

  • Using a humidifier or vaporizer
  • Inhaling steam from a hot shower or pot of hot water
  • Drinking plenty of fluids to thin out the mucus
  • Using a saline nasal spray to keep your nasal passages from drying out
  • Applying a warm, wet towel to your face to help open up your sinuses
  • Avoiding chlorinated pools
  • Trying a neti pot or nasal irrigator to flush out the sinuses
  • Keeping your head elevated when lying down
  • Avoiding blowing your nose too forcefully, which can force the mucus into your ears or other parts of the sinuses
  • Applying eucalyptus oil to a tissue paper and sleeping next to it or adding it to hot water and inhaling the steam

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How Do You Get Rid Of Sinus Congestion From Allergies

  • If you want to use a humidifier or vaporizer, do so.
  • Warm water can be used to steam or take long showers.
  • Make sure you drink plenty of fluids
  • Spray nasal saline on your skin.
  • Neti pots, nasal irrigation devices, and bulb syringes are all good options.
  • Make sure your face is covered in a warm, wet towel
  • You need to prop yourself up.
  • Swimming in chlorine-containing pools is not recommended.
  • Chest Congestion Remedies To Help You Feel Better

    Nasal Congestion & Sinus Pressure Relief: Tips & Remedies | Vicks Sinex

    Each kind of congestion sounds and feels different. Inflammation and mucus in the nasal passages can cause nasal congestion when you have the cold or flu, making your nose feel stuffy. Sinus congestion can bring symptoms of pressure or pain around your forehead, or between your eyes. Chest congestion is entirely different and requires different treatment to bring you relief from this uncomfortable symptom. Read more to learn what chest congestion is and more importantlyâwhat chest congestion remedies and medicine will bring you relief while you have a cold or flu.

    What Is Chest Congestion?

    Chest congestion develops when mucus accumulates in the lungs and lower breathing tubes . When you have chest congestion it can be difficult to take a full, deep breath. You may also hear or feel wheezing or crackling sounds in your chest when you breathe in and out. A different kind of cough may happen when you develop chest congestion, too. This type of cough, known as a wet, or productive cough, has a different sound than a dry cough from an irritated throat, and brings up a lot of mucus.

    Keep reading for 8 chest congestion remedies to bring you much-needed relief.

  • Rest
  • Hydration
  • Water is necessary to thin the mucus and make it easier to cough up. Also, fighting an infection consumes energy, which increases your requirements for water. Fluids like hot tea and broth-y soups will provide the extra hydration your body needs. These hot beverages can also help soothe irritated airways.

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    Can I Buy Something Similar Cheaper Elsewhere

    One of the most common questions that a lot of customers ask is, Can I buy something similar cheaper elsewhere? The short answer is no. When you are looking for a quality cold medicine for nasal congestion, the most important thing to know is that cheap is not always better. You should carefully research the best cold medicine for nasal congestion before buying and consult the prices on some online sales websites to make the best decision.

    Know When Its Time To Head To The Doctors Office

    Although nasal congestion will generally subside on its own, congestion that lasts for more than 7 to 10 days calls for a visit to the doctor, says Stringer. A viral infection usually goes away on its own within a week or so, but an infection that lasts longer is often bacterial and may require an antibiotic, he says. If you experience other symptoms, such as a high fever, one-sided nose bleeds, wheezing or shortness of breath, or persistent facial or tooth pain, see a doctor right away.

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    Buildup Of Phenylalanine In The Body

    • Risk factors: History of phenylketonuria

    The chewable tablets contain phenylalanine, an ingredient that can cause serious health problems if you have PKU. The regular tablets, quick-dissolving tablets, and liquid form donât contain phenylalanine. These forms may be safer options if you have PKU. Talk to a healthcare provider if you have any questions about taking Zyrtec .

    How Does Cold Medicine Work

    NatraBio Sinus Relief Homeopathic Formula

    Each cold medicine works differently depending on the active ingredients included in it. Decongestants such as phenylephrine work by decreasing swelling in your nose and ears in order to reduce your discomfort. Antihistamines used to relieve cold symptoms such as chlorpheniramine work by blocking not only histamines but also acetylcholine, and are thought to help dry up certain bodily fluids and relieve symptoms like watery eyes and runny nose. Pain relievers and fever reducers like ibuprofen work to reduce inflammation by blocking your bodys production of certain natural substances, which in turns helps to decrease swelling, pain, and/or fever.

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    Symptoms Of An Ear Infection

    The primary symptoms of an ear infection include acute ear pain and hearing loss. You will have the sensation that your hearing is muffled and you may experience referred pain to your throat or fluid in the middle ear.

    When youre experiencing an ear infection, you may not necessarily see a change in color in or outside your ears.

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    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.

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    Think You Might Have The Flu Heres What To Doyour Browser Indicates If Youve Visited This Link

    Both the flu and COVID-19 are contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. The flu is caused by infection with an influenza virus, while COVID-19 is caused by the novel coronavirus known as SARS-CoV-2. Flu symptoms and COVID-19 symptoms are often similar, including: It can be hard to tell the difference between COVID-19 and the flu without a proper diagnosis. Luckily, there are rapid, point-of-care tests to help diagnose conditions like influenza, strep throat and COVID-19. We offer these simple tests at most MinuteClinic® locations, the retail health clinic

    publicnow.com

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