The most common reason for a congested nose is a cold or an allergen. Membranes in the noses lining become swollen causing you to become congested. Decongestants are medicines used to ease that runny nose. The decongestant lessens the swelling and narrows the blood vessels that are supplied and the membranes shrink, making that runny nose temporarily disappear.
Decongestants come in a number of forms. The most common being tablets, capsules, gelcaps, liquids, nasal sprays and nose drops. Some decongestants require a prescription from a doctor such as Allegra and Claritin, however some can be purchased over-the-counter. Some of the more common drugs found in decongestants are oxymetazoline, phenylpropanolamine, and pseudoephedrine. The recommended dose for these drugs normally depends on the type of drug and who is taking it. Directions are given for all medications including these decongestants are to be taken as directed. If any questions arise, it is always best to check with a pharmacist or physician. It is also important to check with a physician if you’re currently taking other medications as some may have adverse affects when taken with decongestants.
A decongestant will not cure the cold, flu or reverse the symptoms of histamines (a chemical that is released during an allergic reaction and causes congestion). It only relieves the congestion and sometimes has risks that may not be worth taking. Often, people don’t even need to use decongestants or medications because the common cold goes away within a few days even without treatment. Nasal sprays or nose drops can actually cause more harm than good. If used too often, the congestion will get worse and continue longer than without a medicine. Decongestants in general cause drowsiness and should be taken with caution when operating a vehicle or other machine. Phenylpropanolamine is a dangerous drug found in some decongestants. Some serious side effects have been reported including death when taken excessively. This drug can interact with caffeine and cause confusion, disorientation, and dizziness. Other risks that should be known of include how certain decongestants affect different age groups and pregnant women. Older people and very young people are more sensitive to decongestant drugs and need much lower doses. Otherwise they may become sicker than when they started taking the drugs. Studies have been done in animal laboratories with results that certain decongestant drugs have unwanted effects on fetuses. There are no studies saying this would happen with a human but pregnant, women who may become pregnant, or women or breast feeding should always check with a physician before taking a decongestant. Because there can be so many risks with decongestant drugs, one of the best remedies is drinking hot teas. This can help relieve the congestion without putting someone at risk.
January is National Hot Tea Month. Not a surprise when you also think that is the height of “flu season”. The CDC estimates that approximately 200,000 people come down with the cold or flu every year. A great way to stay healthy during flu season is to drink hot tea. An ingredient found in some teas is theanine, which supports the immune system. Drinking tea throughout the day can help fight bacteria and strengthen the immune system which important in keeping you healthy. Drinking Black Tea has been proven to increase the immune system by four times when drank regularly for a number of weeks. Some teas also contain flavonoids which work as antioxidants to cleanse the body. Another tea called Decongestant Tea by Bell Lifestyles contains ten natural ingredients including Cardamom Seeds, Fennel Seeds, Eucalyptus leaves, Rosemary leaves, Fir Balsam and Horehound. These natural ingredients when taken through drinking this tea will sooth scratchy throats, and congested lungs.
Steven Johnson is interested in maintaining a vital and healthy lifestyle. For more information on various health products and other life-enhancing nutrients please visit his website Alternative Health Supplements.
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