Nasal stuffiness or congestion occurs as a result of
swelling of the nasal membranes. Histamine opens the blood
vessels and encourages fluid leakage from them, thereby
causing the tissues to become "congested." This reaction
reduces the space inside the nose through which we breathe
and results in the typical "blocked" or stuffy nose. While
antihistamines can control many symptoms of allergic
rhinitis, they are not very helpful for treating nasal
congestion once it has already occurred. At this point,
decongestants can be a very useful addition.
How do decongestants work?
Decongestants act on a receptor on the blood vessels.
The blood vessels thereby shrink, which in turn reduces the blood
flow to the area and lessens the leakage of fluid into the
tissues. The result is a nasal passage that feels
more "open." It is important to remember that
decongestants do NOT help with an itchy, sneezing, and
runny nose.
Two forms of decongestants, oral and topical, are currently
available. They are probably equally effective,
although the topical nasal sprays or drops work more quickly (a few
minutes compared to thirty minutes). Most preparations are
OTC and are relatively inexpensive. As we will see later,
decongestants are frequently combined with antihistamines
and are sometimes combined with mucous thinners
(mucolytics).
Allergic rhinitis symptoms include an itchy, runny nose, sneezing, itchy ears, eyes, and throat. Seasonal allergic rhinitis (also called hay fever) is usually caused by pollen in the air. Perennial allergic rhinitis is a type of chronic rhinitis and is a year–round problem, often caused by indoor allergens, such as dust, animal dander, and pollens that may exist at the time. Treatment of chronic rhinitis and post nasal drip are dependant upon the type of rhinitis condition.
An allergy refers to a misguided reaction by our immune system in response to bodily contact with certain foreign substances. When these allergens come in contact with the body, it causes the immune system to develop an allergic reaction in people who are allergic to it. It is estimated that 50 million North Americans are affected by allergic conditions. The parts of the body that are prone to react to allergies include the eyes, nose, lungs, skin, and stomach. Common allergic disorders include hay fever, asthma, allergic eyes, allergic eczema, hives, and allergic shock.
Hay fever (allergic rhinitis) is an irritation of the nose caused by pollen and is associated with the following allergic symptoms: nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, eye and nose itching, and tearing eyes. Avoidance of known allergens is the recommended treatment, but if this is not possible, antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal sprays may help alleviate symptoms.
Common sources of indoor allergens include dust mites, cockroaches, molds, pets, and plants. Managing allergies caused by indoor allergens means reducing your exposure to them.
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