Allergy tests can help determine if you are allergic to any environmental or food items. If you notice your “cold” symptoms occur at the same time each year (spring for examine), or are consistent year-round, you may actually have allergies that could benefit from antihistamine medication. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911. Talk to your physician about your symptoms. Oral decongestants relieve nasal and sinus congestion caused by hay fever (allergic rhinitis). You can use it alone or combine it with an antihistamine. You can use it alone or combine it with an antihistamine. Mucus is a normal substance produced by lining tissues in the body. Avoidance of known allergens is the recommended treatment, but if this is not possible, antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal sprays may help alleviate symptoms. Many decongestants, such as pseudoephedrine (Sudafed), are available over-the-counter. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on to make decisions about your health. In the drug realm, antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl), chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton), cetirizine (Zyrtec), and loratadine (Claritin) can help with a stuffy nose are safe for the heart. Thus, one can decide which of the medicines would be more effective for any specific upper respiratory problems. Antihistamines and decongestants won't cure your allergies. It helps you breathe easier because it relieves the pressure and improves airflow. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.Furthermore, one needs to be aware that neither of these over-the-counter medicines should be used for a long time. For true cold symptoms, a decongestant will provide more relief than an antihistamine. National Jewish Medical and Research Center: "Is it a Cold or the Flu?" Antihistamines contained in these combinations are:The decongestants, such as phenylephrine, and pseudoephedrine, produce a narrowing of blood vessels. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Histamine can cause itching, sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes. Symptoms like stuffy nose can be treated by both the medicines. For true cold symptoms, a decongestant will provide more relief than an antihistamine. If your nose and sinuses are stuffed up, a decongestant may help. […] MedLine Plus: "Flu," "Common Cold." This leads to clearing of nasal congestion, but it may also cause an increase in blood pressure in patients who have high blood pressure.Some of these combinations are available only with your doctor's prescription. Antihistamine blocks the body from releasing a chemical called histamine. Our general interest e-newsletter keeps you up to date on a wide variety of health topics.In November 2000, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a public health warning regarding phenylpropanolamine (PPA) due to the risk of hemorrhagic stroke. Caltrate. These conditions give rise to various uncomfortable symptoms like strep throat, nasal congestion, excessive sneezing, cough, itchy, and watery eyes, etc.These symptoms are triggered mainly, either due to swelling of the blood vessels inside the nasal cavity, or release of the histamine. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. American Lung Association: "A Survival Guide for Preventing and Treating Influenza and the Common Cold." Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission.Check out these best-sellers and special offers on books and newsletters from Mayo Clinic. A decongestant is a medicine that causes blood vessels to become narrower. You can use it alone or combine it with an antihistamine. SOURCES: Remember, though, it can … Our secure, online payment portal is available for your added convenience: All rights reserved. Full text of "Egyptian_Drug_Guide_3rd_edition" See other formats" ^ % v: Egyptian Drug Guide 3rd Edition 2011 Department of Pharmacy Practice and Clinical Pharmacy Department of Pharmacy Practice and Clinical Pharmacy Table of Contents DRUGS FOR NEUROLOGIC DISORDERS 5 ♦ Pain Management 5 Analgesic, Anti-inflammatory and Anti- pyretic drugs 5 Analgesic and Antipyretics 7 Opioid analgesics … Nasal antihistamines and decongestants are products that contain either an antihistamine … Triglide (all strengths) VITAMINS AND IRON. Antihistamines are usually taken proactively to prevent these symptoms from occurring in the first place. Talk to your physician about your symptoms. For true cold symptoms, a decongestant will provide more relief than an antihistamine. Antihistamines may cause confusion, dizziness, sedation, hypotension, hyperexcitability, and anticholinergic side effects such as dryness of the mouth and urinary retention in geriatric patients. What Is Mucus? Decongestants are in many cough and cold products, so be sure to talk to your healthcare provider before taking any cough or cold products.