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Suggest Treatment For Nasal Congestion And Difficulty Breathing

Posted on Mon, 5 Jan 2015

Question: I have severe nasal congestion. I tried over the counter meds but none seem to work. ZyrtecD with 120mg of pseudoephedrine has some relief but the only thing that works is Afrin nasal spray. I have been using it for more than a week but fear I am now getting a rebound effect. Is there any other prescription medication that can shrink the blood vessels in the nasal passages so I can Breath.

Answered by Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (14 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Try steroid and saline nasal spray...

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for posting the query

Refractory congestion of the nose has to be treated with intranasal steroid and saline nasal spray. This will definitely reduce the nasal congestion and also keeps the nasal mucosa moist. If you don't get better with the above medications, then, you would require a short course of oral steroids.

Also, do steam inhalation regularly and drink plenty of warm water. Warm air will help in decongestion of the nose and relieves the nasal block. Avoid coffee/ chilled food and beverages/ smoking if any.

Do not worry! With the above measures you should definitely get better. Revert back to me if you have any follow up queries.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N.
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj

Follow up: Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (13 minutes later)

What is the intranasal steroid is this a spray or a prescription med. I have been using a saline spray. I also tried Nasonex and Flonase with no results

Answered by Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (16 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
You would require a short course of potent oral steroids...

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for writing back

Nasonex and Flonase are the intranasal steroid sprays. As you have already used both of them, the other best option is to try taking a short course of oral steroids (this requires a prescription of the doctor) and continue with either of the above steroid nasal sprays. Also, you will require a diagnostic nasal endoscopy for a complete evaluation of the nasal cavity.

My suggestion to you is to consult an apt ENT Specialist and get a complete check up done.

I wish you good health and speedy recovery.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T