|
|
|
|
|
|
Can Over-the-Counter
Medications Help? |
|
|
|
|
|
Why Do We Suffer From Nasal And Sinus
Discomfort? The
body's nasal and sinus membranes have similar responses to viruses,
allergic insults, and common bacterial infections. Membranes become
swollen and congested. This congestion causes pain and pressure;
mucus production increases during inflammation, resulting in a
drippy, runny nose. These secretions may thicken over time, may slow
in their drainage, and may predispose to future bacterial infection
of the sinuses.
Congestion of the nasal membranes may even
block the eustachian tube leading to the ear, resulting in a feeling
of blockage in the ear or fluid behind the eardrum. Additionally,
nasal airway congestion causes the individual to breathe through the
mouth.
Each year, more than 37 million Americans suffer from
sinusitis, which typically includes nasal congestion, thick
yellow-green nasal discharge, facial pain, and pressure. Many do not
understand the nature of their illness or what produces their
symptoms. Consequently, before visiting a physician, they seek
relief for their nasal and sinus discomfort by taking
non-prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medications.
What Is
The Role Of OTC Medication For Sinus Pain?
There are many different
OTC medications available to relieve the common complaints of sinus
pain and pressure, allergy problems, and nasal congestion. Most of
these medications are combination products that associate either a
pain reliever such as acetaminophen with a decongestant or an
antihistamine. Knowledge of these products and of the probable cause
of symptoms will help the consumer to decide which product is best
suited to relieve the common symptoms associated with nasal or sinus
inflammation.
OTC nasal medications are designed to reduce
symptoms produced by the inflammation of nasal membranes and
sinuses. The goals of OTC medications are to: (1) reopen to nasal
passages; (2) reduce nasal congestion; (3) relieve pain and pressure
symptoms; and (4) reduce potential for complications. The
medications come in several forms.
Nasal Saline Sprays: Non-Medicated
Nasal Sprays Nasal saline is an
invaluable addition to the list of over-the-counter medications. It
is ideal for all types of nasal problems. The added moisture
produced by the saline reduces thick secretions and assists in the
removal of infectious agents. There is no risk of becoming
"addicted" to nasal saline. It should be applied as a mist to the
nose up to six times per day. Nasal saline can also be made at home:
contact your otolaryngologist for details.
Nasal Decongestant Sprays: Medicated Nasal
Sprays
Afrin nasal spray, Neo-Synephrine,
Otrivin, Dristan nasal spray, and other brands decongest the swollen
nasal membranes. They clear nasal passages almost immediately and
are useful in treating the initial stages of a common cold or viral
infection. Nasal decongestant sprays are safe to use, especially
appropriate for preventing eustachian tube problems when flying, and
to halt progression of sinus infections following colds. However,
they should only be utilized for 3-5 days because prolonged use
leads to rebound congestion or "getting hooked on nasal sprays." The
patient with nasal swelling caused by seasonal allergy problems
should use a cromolyn sodium nasal spray. The spray must be used
frequently (four times a day) during allergy season to prevent the
release of histamine from the tissues, which starts the allergic
reaction. It works best before symptoms become established by
stabilizing the nasal membranes and has few side effects.
Decongestant Medications
Pressure and congestion are common symptoms of nasal passage
swelling. Decongestant medications are OTC products that relieve
nasal swelling, pressure, and congestion but do not treat the cause
of the inflammation. They reduce blood flow to the nasal membranes
leading to improved airflow, less breathing through the mouth,
decreased pressure in the sinuses and head, and subsequently less
discomfort. Decongestants do not relieve drippy noses. Their side
effects may include light headedness or giddiness and increased
blood pressure and heart rate. (Patients with high blood pressure or
heart problems should consult a physician before use.) In addition,
other medications may interact with oral decongestants causing side
effects. Both of these are available as single products or in
combination with a pain reliever or an antihistamine. They are
labeled as "non-drowsy" due to a side effect of stimulation of the
nervous system.
Decongestant-Combination Products
Some medications are combined to reduce the number of pills.
Tylenol® Sinus or Advil Cold and Sinus® exemplify products that join
a pain reliever (acetaminophen or ibuprophen) with a decongestant
(pseudoephedrine). These products relieve both sinus and cold/flu
symptoms yet retain all the attributes of the individual drug
including side effects.
Antihistamine Medications
Antihistamines combat allergic problems leading to nasal congestion.
OTC antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl®), or
clemastine (Tavist®) may be used for relieving allergic symptoms of
itching, sneezing, and nasal congestion. They relieve the drainage
associated with the allergic inflammation but not obstruction or
congestion. Antihistamines have a potential for sedation causing
grogginess and dryness after use. Newer nonsedating antihistamines
are available.
Antihistamine-Decongestant Combination Products
Antihistamines and decongestant products are often combined to
relieve multiple symptoms of congestion and drainage and reduce the
side effects of both products. Antihistamines produce sedation;
decongestants are added to make them "non-drowsy." The combined
allergy product then relieves congestion and a runny nose.
|
|
|
|
| Home | Contact | Top of Page
| (541) 567-2270 |
|
Dr. Warner Hermiston, OR
Kennedyinc.biz © 1999 - 2008
|