Research Notes on Decongestants
Decongestants relieve the nasal congestion common to colds or allergies. They work by narrowing blood vessels in the nasal membranes, which reduces how much blood flows through the area so that swollen tissue inside the nose shrinks and air can pass through more easily.1 Decongestants are most often used to treat respiratory infections, such as the common cold, flu, sinusitis or allergies. They are especially helpful for people who easily develop middle ear or sinus infections.2
Fast Facts:
- Many decongestants are available without a prescription.
- Decongestants are available as nasal sprays, liquids, and pills.
- Decongestants are not generally recommended for people with heart disease, high blood pressure, glaucoma, thyroid disease, urinary retention problems or certain people with asthma or diabetes.2
5 Great Resources on Decongestants
- Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine (via HealthAtoZ): Decongestants
- FamilyDoctor: Decongestants: OTC Relief for Congestion
- MedicineNet: What are Decongestants
- Your Total Health: Decongestants for Allergies & Asthma
- Johns Hopkins (via Yahoo Health): All About Decongestants
- Wikipedia: Decongestants
- About.com: Cold & Flu: Before You Buy Decongestants
- HealthWise (via Revolution Health): Decongestants
- University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics: Decongestants vs. Antihistamines
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5 Latest Headlines on Decongestants
Research Notes References
- ↑ FamilyDoctor: Decongestants: OTC Relief for Congestion
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics: Decongestants vs. Antihistamines
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About this WisdomCard
- Contributor: Nicole Kinsey
- Reviewer: Tara
- Supervised by: The OrganizedWisdom Physician Review Team
- Last update: Oct. 1, 2008
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