Some OTC sinus decongestant formulas include both antihistamines and decongestant ingredients, and some add pain relief ingredients such as ibuprofen to their formula. It’s best to treat for symptoms that you have, not for additional symptoms that you don’t have. Some stronger medications target multiple symptoms, while others will simply relieve a stuffy nose caused by allergies. Some may make you drowsy, while others might make sleep difficult. If you have a severe sinus infection or if you’re taking antibiotics, talk with your doctor about the best OTC medication choice for you. Do sinus decongestants work for ear congestion?

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You might need to take steroid nasal sprays or drops for a few months. They sometimes cause irritation, sore throats or nosebleeds. When you’re figuring out which decongestant to buy, you’ll need to determine what’s causing your congestion.Examples include pseudoephedrine (sometimes called by the brand name Sudafed). Types of decongestants Sinus decongestants can work to relieve pressure in the upper sinus cavities. If you have ear congestion, relieving this pressure can help manage your pain. But sinus decongestants can’t treat an underlying ear infection. Is it safe to take sinus decongestants while pregnant? Decongestants that come as tablets, liquids or powders that you swallow are not recommended if you're breastfeeding.

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Most decongestants can be bought over the counter from pharmacies without a prescription. Who can take decongestants ALWAYS READ THE LABEL. Sudafed® Nasal Spray Solution contains xylometazoline hydrochloride. Non-Drowsy Sudafed® Decongestant Tablets contain pseudoephedrine hydrochloride. Non-Drowsy Sudafed® Decongestant Syrup contains pseudoephedrine hydrochloride. Sudapro™ Head Cold Tablets contain pseudoephedrine hydrochloride and ibuprofen. Non-Drowsy Sudaplus® Tablets contain paracetamol and pseudoephedrine hydrochloride. Ask your pharmacist for advice. Decongestant nasal sprays and drops should not be used for more than a week at a time because using them for too long can make your stuffiness worse.

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For example, taking decongestants alongside some antidepressants can cause a dangerous rise in blood pressure. Children aged 6 to 11 should take them for no longer than 5 days. Ask a pharmacist for advice about this. If you’re having trouble breathing due to cold, flu, or allergies, sinus decongestants are designed to relieve your symptoms and help you carry on with your day.