Recommended Decongestants

When blood vessels in the nose and other air passages in the body expand or become swollen because of an illness or allergies, a nasal decongestant is often used to reduce the swelling of these blood vessels so the patient is able to breathe comfortably. Decongestants are stimulants related to adrenaline, which is a natural decongestant.

Keep Nasal Passages Moist

• Although it might sound counterproductive, keeping the nasal passages moist will actually reduce swelling and inflammation, but letting them dry out will make the nasal passages even more irritated. So take a long hot shower, breathe in steam from a pot or use a humidifier.

Saline Spray

• A simple saline spray often works as a nasal decongestant because it flushes out of the nasal passages while also keeping them from drying out. Irrigate the nostrils with a syringe or a neti pot filled with the salt water.

Nasal Sprays

• Nasal sprays are available over the counter that help reduce swelling of nasal membranes, at least temporarily. Blow your nose before using the spray, then cover the nostril you are not medicating, tilt your head forward and slowly pump the spray into your nose while breathing in. A "rebound effect" is sometimes present after using a nasal spray for too long, in which the congestion actually worsens. To avoid this, do not use a nasal spray for more than three days.

Oral Decongestants

• Two types of oral decongestants are available in pill form over the counter: pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine. These are meant to work by reducing swelling of your blood vessels in the nose so that air can flow through more easily. Some medications include a decongestant as well as an antihistamine or other drug, which is helpful if you are suffering from congestion caused by allergies.