Congestion results from inflammation of the mucous membranes in the nasal passages due to engorgement of the underlying blood vessels, which widen in response to infection or allergy. The condition becomes worse with excessive mucus production, sometimes causing further inflammation of the airway. Mucus in the airway leads to coughing to clear the congestion. When symptoms occur as a result of an infection, cough and congestion remedies can often lessen the effect until the infection runs its course. With children, however, a doctor should recommend the appropriate over-the-counter remedy and the correct dose. As the Cleveland Clinic notes, “Over-the-counter cough and cold preparations are intended to relieve symptoms rather than to cure the illness or to sedate the child.”
Decongestants
Decongestants enhance the action of chemicals that stimulate the narrowing of the blood vessels. As blood vessels narrow, the swelling in the mucous membrane decreases, lessening the production of mucus. Oxymetazoline and phenylephrine are decongestants available in the form of tablets, aerosol sprays or nose drops. These drugs most often treat symptoms of the common cold, sinusitis and hay fever. Decongestant sprays and drops are most effective. Long-term use of a decongestant can cause increased congestion. Decongestants taken orally can cause a rise in blood pressure, so those with hypertension or heart disease should take them with caution.
Antihistamines
Histamine acts on histamine receptors in the nose, causing a widening of the blood vessels. Because these vessels supply the mucous membranes, the process leads to swelling and even more mucus production. According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, antihistamines block histamine receptors, preventing histamine’s effect. These drugs will relieve allergic symptoms such as watery, itchy eyes and nose by blocking histamine’s inflammatory response. Antihistamines decrease swelling, irritation and watery discharge, which is why they are included in most cough and cold remedies. Their sedative and anti-allergic properties also reduce nasal secretions. Antihistamines may cause drowsiness, dizziness or sleeping problems.
Mucolytics
Mucolytics and expectorants are cough remedies that act directly on the lungs and airways. Mucolytics alter the consistency of mucus; however, drinking plenty of fluids may be just as effective. Cough suppressants act on the cough center in the brain. They are useful in suppressing a dry cough but not one caused from mucus in the airway. For individuals with a wet, productive cough, cough suppressants will prevent the body from getting rid of mucus and could possibly delay recovery.
References
- American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery: Antihistamines, Decongestants and Cold Remedies
- American Academy of Family Physicians: Decongestants, Family Doctor.Org: OTC Relief for Congestion
- U.S. National Library of Medicine: Oxymetazoline Nasal Spray
- U.S. National Library of Medicine: Phenylephrine
- Cleveland Clinic: Over-the-Counter Cough and Cold Preparations in Pediatric Patients
