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A runny nose seems to many to be a frivolous disease. Nevertheless, people who encounter it get a lot of trouble with a runny nose. And if the snot flowing from the nose can still be wiped off with a handkerchief, then what about nasal congestion and the inability to breathe?

As a result, a person begins to breathe through his mouth, suffers from a lack of oxygen, his voice changes, and he cannot speak for a long time. And this leads to the inability to properly perform their official duties. And at night a stuffy nose does not give an opportunity to properly Man can barely doze off, gasping for air, and the next morning he gets up tired and broken.

Children with a stuffy runny nose find it even more difficult because their airways are smaller than those of adults. And babies, moreover, do not know how to breathe through the mouth, so a runny nose in them can lead to oxygen starvation.

Fortunately, modern pharmaceuticals have developed tools to alleviate the suffering of adults and children with a stuffy nose. Now there are many drugs that can fight the common cold. Typically, they come in the form of drops or sprays, which must be instilled or sprayed into the nose.

Photo: CandyBox Images / Shutterstock.com

The principle of action of drugs

It should be borne in mind that a runny nose (rhinorrhea) itself is defensive reaction the body for a viral or bacterial infection. The mucus secreted in the nasal cavity serves to protect respiratory tract from exposure to microbes or viruses. A runny nose can be caused by various infectious diseases - sinusitis, rhinitis, and ARVI. In addition, non-infectious factors, such as allergic reactions.

It should also be borne in mind that nasal congestion can not always be caused by a runny nose - it can be caused by polyps, deformation of the septum.

Thus, the remedies for the common cold and for nasal congestion are divided according to the principle of action into the following categories:

• vasoconstrictor drugs;
• products that moisturize the nasal mucosa;
• antiallergenic antihistamines;
• antibacterial drugs;
• antiviral agents;
• means for thinning mucus;
• drugs with glucocorticosteroids;
• herbal remedies.

There are two main dosage forms, sprays and drops. Drops are intended for instillation into a stuffy nose, and sprays are intended for spraying inside the nasal cavity.

Which form is more convenient? There is no single answer, it all depends on the patient and the disease. For a number of parameters, sprays are more effective, since they allow you to evenly distribute the drug over the entire surface of the mucous membrane. Thus, the product is used more efficiently. On the other hand, sprays are contraindicated in children under 6 years of age. This is due to the fact that when a spray is sprayed into the nose, it can get in a child not only into the nasal cavity, but also where it is not needed, for example, into the Eustachian tube, which is shorter in children than in adults. Together with the agent, pathogenic bacteria can also get there. It threatens or eustachite. Also, the agent can get into the bronchi. In this case, an attack may occur. bronchial asthma, and this is already a much more serious thing that can lead to asphyxiation and death.

How to use the drugs?

The effectiveness of drops and sprays depends a lot on how you use them. When instilling drops into the nose, it is necessary to take a lying position. After the drop has entered the nose, it is necessary to turn the head to the side so that the drop would irrigate the entire surface of the nasal mucosa. When using the spray, it is advisable to avoid getting it into the auditory tube. Therefore, at the time of irrigation of the nasal cavity, the head should be in upright position and be slightly tilted to the side opposite to the location of the nostril. If the nose is completely blocked, then it makes sense before instilling vasoconstrictor or antibacterial drugs rinse it with saline solutions.

Vasoconstrictor drugs

One of the properties of the common cold is the expansion of the vessels of the mucous membrane of the nose and nasopharynx. This causes swelling and nasal congestion. Vasoconstrictor agents act on adrenaline receptors in peripheral vessels and compress them, as a result of which the edema subsides, the excretion of mucus is accelerated and the nose is cleared.

As a rule, active substances such as xylometazoline, oxymetazoline, naphazoline, tetrizoline, tramazoline, phenylephrine are used in vasoconstrictors.

Drops with naphazoline have the shortest duration of action - about 4 hours. However, they are also the cheapest. Drops of xylometazoline, oxylometazoline, tetrizoline have a longer duration of action - 8-12 hours. They are best buried in a stuffy nose at night.

This class of drugs is extremely effective and has quick action(after a few minutes). But these drugs also have a number of side effects. First of all, vasoconstrictors are not designed for continuous use. The maximum period of their use is a week, and in most cases three days (it all depends on the characteristics of a particular drug). The thing is that vasoconstrictor drugs are highly addictive. With prolonged use, the vessels get used to the agent and stop responding to it. The walls of blood vessels become thinner, which can subsequently lead to their slight injury and bleeding. Or the vessels lose their ability to narrow on their own, without the action of the drug. In addition, the mucous membrane is dried. As a result, the runny nose turns into a chronic, intractable form.

Thus, vasoconstrictor drugs should be used with great care and only when it is really necessary - for example, a runny nose does not allow sleep or interferes with speaking clearly.

Also, vasoconstrictor drugs are contraindicated in pregnancy. This is due to the fact that they can have a negative impact on the development of the fetus. They are also prescribed with caution in childhood. Most of them are contraindicated for infants. Also at cardiovascular diseases, hypertension before using these drugs, you should consult your doctor.

List of the most popular vasoconstrictors:

• Galazolin,
• Naphtizin,
• For the nose,
• Nazol,
• Sanorin.

Moisturizers

It is no secret that during a runny nose, the mucous membrane is largely dried out. Moisturizers help to eliminate this problem. They are usually made with a salt base. Of course, you can use a solution of ordinary table salt for rinsing the nose, but products containing sea salt, such as Aqua Maris, are best suited for this purpose. In addition to moisturizing, saline solutions can also absorb bacteria as well as fluid from edematous tissues. These drugs can be prescribed both independently of other means, and in combination with them. Saline solutions are completely safe and can be administered to both pregnant women and newborns. Some drugs can be used in preventive purposes during epidemics of acute respiratory infections.

Antihistamines

These drugs are prescribed only for allergic rhinitis, which is of a non-infectious nature. As you know, there are many allergens around us - wool, dust, pollen, aerosols. Some of them can induce an immune response in the form of allergic edema. Antihistamines act on histamine receptors, so that the swelling subsides.

Antibacterial agents

A runny nose is often caused by a variety of bacteria. While most other remedies treat only the symptoms of the disease, antibacterial drops and sprays affect the cause of the disease. The components of antibacterial agents can be antiseptics or antibiotics. If antiseptics are used, it is important that they do not irritate the nasal mucosa. Such properties are possessed by a relatively small number of drugs, for example, miramistin, as well as drugs based on silver. Antibiotics must be chosen so that they target a specific type of bacteria, or have a universal effect. Plus, they shouldn't have any side effects.

The most commonly used drugs are Amoxiclav, Isofra (the active ingredient is framycetin), and Bioparox spray (fusafungin).

Antiviral nose drops for the common cold

These drugs are for when the inflammation is caused by a viral infection. Typically, antiviral drugs contain a variety of interferons similar to those secreted by cells. immune system when meeting viruses. Examples of drugs of this type are Ingaron, Grippferon.

Preparations for thinning mucus

These drugs are used when there is too much mucus in the nasal passages and it is too thick to come out on its own. This type of drug uses mucolytic substances similar to those used to treat coughs, such as acetylcysteine.

Hormonal agents

These products contain powerful anti-inflammatory drugs such as beclomethasone, fluticasone. Used primarily for rhinitis caused by allergic reasons, as well as in case of ineffectiveness of other means. Their action begins 3-4 hours after consumption, but continues for a long time. However, taking them has a number of side effects - a decrease in local immunity, an increase in intraocular pressure.

Herbal preparations and folk remedies

There are many that have proven themselves in the treatment of rhinitis. As a rule, they have a moisturizing, mild anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effect and act on cold receptors to relieve swelling. The action of herbal preparations is mild, they are designed for long-term use. Essential oils, for example, eucalyptus oil, conifers, olive oil, and peach oil, have shown the greatest effectiveness in treating a cold. Also used are nasal drops for the common cold based on menthol, camphor and juice. However, essential oils are highly allergenic. This should be taken into account when giving them to children. Such nasal drops for a cold can only be used to treat children from one year old.

Combined drugs for the common cold

Many drugs contain several components from different groups at once, so that their action would complement each other. For example, it can be a vasoconstrictor and moisturizer, a vasoconstrictor and antibacterial, antibacterial and herbal, etc. An example of such a drug is Vibrocil, which can be used for a cold of any etiology. Polydex drops contain both an antibiotic (dexamethasone) and a vasoconstrictor (phenylephrine). Drops of Sanorin (naphazoline) with eucalyptus oil are also produced.

Which remedy should you choose?

A runny nose is a serious condition that can cause complications such as otitis media or sinusitis. Therefore, the treatment of the common cold should be taken seriously. As this condition can be caused by various reasons - bacterial infection, SARS, allergies, then the selection of drugs should be carried out taking into account the etiology of the disease.

What type of drops are best for children?

What to drip to a child? First of all, these are moisturizing drops with sea salts. In addition, there are several vasoconstrictor drugs for the common cold, suitable for children, for example, Nazol Baby, Nazol Kids, Nazivin. Antibacterial drugs based on miramistin and silver are also used.

Despite the seeming harmlessness of a runny nose, it causes a lot of discomfort to a sick person - it is impossible to breathe, talk, get enough sleep, fully perform household and work duties.

Chronic congestion leads to voice changes, the development of brain hypoxia, complications of bacterial infections and other troubles. Fortunately, the pharmaceutical market today offers a lot of drugs to combat nasal congestion, but not many people know which remedy for a cold to choose and how to use it correctly.

It is worth considering that the appearance of mucous discharge from the nose is due to a reaction to the invasion of viruses, bacteria, fungi, allergens and other pathogens. Also, rhinitis can be vasomotor (occur with hormonal disruptions and problems with autonomic nervous system) and medication (resulting from the abuse of vasoconstrictor drops).

What drugs will be required to eliminate a specific problem - the doctor will say after a detailed examination. Today we will talk in detail about the existing classes of remedies for the common cold, as an introductory information.

One of the signs of rhinitis is the excessive expansion of the vessels of the epithelium lining the nasal passages, against the background of tissue edema - these are the reasons that provoke congestion.

It is possible to choose an inexpensive remedy for the common cold for adults from the vasoconstrictor group on their own, provided that the congestion does not bother for more than a week, and the rhinitis itself does not raise suspicions of a bacterial or allergic form, otherwise another plan will be required.

In vasoconstrictor agents, such components are usually present as oxymetazoline, naphazoline, xylometazoline, phenylephrine and others, they act on adrenaline receptors in peripheral capillaries and constrict them.

Thanks to this action, the edema of the epithelium subsides, the nasal passages are cleared of mucus, and breathing is restored.

The most effective drugs are considered to be of the following groups:

Based on naphazoline- Sanorin, Naphtizin, Naphazolin-Ferein. The effect after instillation or injection of the spray occurs after 3-5 minutes and lasts up to 6 hours. It is not recommended to use these drops for children under 3 years old, in order to avoid irritation of the mucous membrane and depression of the central nervous system.

Xylometazoline based- Galazolin, Otrivin, Xymelin, Tizin Xylo. The drugs in this group are economical and safe, and they also have a longer lasting effect, up to 12 hours in a row. For adult patients, drops and sprays are available in a concentration of 0.1%, for children - 0.05%.

Oxymetazoline based- Nazivin, Nazol Advance, Oxymetazoline. The drugs of this group act against congestion for 6-8 hours in a row, and their convenience lies in accurate dosage designed for different ages of patients. For children under one year old, it is recommended to instill a 0.01% agent, starting from a year and up to 6 years old, drops containing 0.025% of the active substance are suitable, and adults are prescribed the drug in 0.05% concentration.

Tramazoline-based preparations show a good effect. for example Lazolvan Reno. This remedy does not irritate the mucous membrane and saves from congestion for 8-10 hours.

Drops containing phenylephrine are also popular.- Nazol Kids and Nazol Baby, intended for children from 6 years old and from birth to 6 years old, respectively.

Some drugs combine a combination of several active ingredients, for example, tramazoline and phenylephrine (Adrianol), naphazoline and antazoline (Sanorin Anallergin), phenylephrine and dimethindene (Vibrocil).

It is not recommended to use vasoconstrictors for more than 5 days in a row, without first consulting a doctor, since a runny nose can be caused by an allergic or bacterial pathogen, in which case treatment with simple drops will not give the desired effect and will contribute to the transition of rhinitis into a chronic form.

For more information about this group of drugs for adults, see a list of children's vasoconstrictor drops by age.

Antibacterial drugs

Medicines for the common cold with an antibacterial effect are intended for stopping the microbial infection that caused rhinitis, as well as for the treatment of its complications (sinusitis and sinusitis).

The consequences of an infectious rhinitis also require the appointment of antibiotics by mouth or in the form of injections, but if there are no complications, local application of sprays and aerosols with an antibacterial effect will be sufficient.

Doctors consider the following drugs to be the most effective:

• Isofra

A medication in the form of a spray, which contains the antibacterial component framycetin. The tool effectively stops the reproduction and growth of pathogenic microbes, it is prescribed for upper respiratory tract infections.

Before injecting Isofra, the nasal passages should be cleaned of mucus and rinsed with saline, then spray the drug into each nostril 1-2 times, three times a day.

The lack of a positive effect indicates that the infectious agent is resistant to the active substance, and the drug must be replaced.

• Polydexa

Effectively fights inflammation in the nose thanks to the active substances neomycin and polymyxin.

In ENT practice, this remedy against the common cold is used to treat sinusitis and otitis media of various etiologies, the injection is carried out 2-3 times a day for children and 4-5 times for adults.

Do not use an antibiotic for inhalation, as this will cause severe allergies.

• Bioparox

Fusafungin based aerosol. It is prescribed for sinusitis, sinusitis and other infections of the ENT organs.

It is sprayed several times a day, the positive effect is achieved after a few hours. Has a pronounced effect against fungi and bacteria, has an antimicrobial effect.

In case of a cold, the drug is injected twice a day, 1 inhalation in each nostril, the course of treatment is no longer than 7 days.

Important information:

Bioparox was discontinued in 2016, since the active ingredient increased the likelihood of bronchospasm in patients. In this connection, it is necessary to choose its analogue. You will find a list of nine drugs with a similar effect.

It must be remembered that each of the listed drugs has its own contraindications and cross-reactions with other drugs prescribed for the treatment of rhinitis. Therefore, their independent use is not recommended, in order to avoid overdose and side effects.

Antihistamines

Allergic rhinitis occurs as a reaction of the body to the ingress of an irritant inside or on the surface of the mucous membranes, after prolonged contact.

Nasal antihistamines are designed to relieve congestion and rhinorrhea by blocking histamine cells released into the bloodstream, causing epithelial edema and vasodilation.

Symptoms are observed in patients suffering from allergic reactions to food, medicines, household chemicals, dust, animal hair, pollen.

It is not so easy to find an effective remedy for a cold of an allergic nature; it should be prescribed by a doctor after examination and identification of the irritant.

Among these drugs are:

Allergodil is a spray containing azelastine. Blocks histamine receptors, reducing itching and burning in the nose, relieving sneezing and rhinorrhea.

The effect of the drug manifests itself 15 minutes after injection into the nasal passages and lasts up to 12 hours.

Tizine Allergy - contains levoblastin, a substance with an antihistamine effect. 5 minutes after spraying, it helps to reduce itching, the amount of mucous discharge, get rid of congestion and swelling of the mucous membrane.

Cromohexal is a remedy for allergic rhinitis based on cromoglycic acid. It is more suitable for the prevention of seasonal rhinitis, since the good effect of the application is noticeable after a few days. Introduced into each nasal passage in 1 dose containing 2.8 mg active substance, up to 6 times a day, depending on the severity of symptoms.

Vibrocil - a spray containing phenylephrine and dimethindene, has a complex effect against the common cold and allergies. Effectively eliminates swelling of the nasal mucosa and paranasal sinuses, without affecting the function of the ciliary epithelium. it good remedy from chronic rhinitis, is also used after surgical interventions on the ENT organs.

Sanorin Anallergin- a nasal drug based on naphazoline and antazoline. It has a pronounced effect against swelling, itching and burning in the nose, eliminates sneezing and rhinorrhea. The effect occurs 10 minutes after spraying on the mucous membrane and lasts about 6 hours. It is indicated for rhinitis of different etiology, especially allergic.

An overdose of antihistamines causes drowsiness, depression of consciousness, severe allergic reactions and other dangerous side effects, therefore, they should be used only as directed by a doctor and strictly in the indicated dosages.

Antiviral agents

This group of remedies for the common cold is used for weakened immunity, if necessary preventive measures against catching a respiratory infection.

They activate the active cells of the immune system, which allows you to stop the multiplication of viruses and ease the course of the disease, if it has already begun.

The most popular and effective remedies for viral rhinitis:

• Interferon

Available as a powder that needs to be diluted boiled water up to the mark on the glass ampoule, or nasal drops.

It increases the defenses, activates local immunity, and stops the multiplication of viruses.

You should not use Interferon more often than once every six months, otherwise the body will not produce its own interferon and will remain defenseless against infections.

• Viferon

For intranasal use, it is available in the form of an ointment and gel. The agent must be applied to the nasal mucosa up to 4 times a day, this will provide a local fight against viruses and increase immunity.

Thanks to ascorbic acid and human interferon in the composition, it not only stops the reproduction of microorganisms, but also accelerates the healing process.

• Ingaron

Powder for the preparation of a liquid solution of the type of Interferon.

It causes the destruction of virus cells, increases the resistance of the mucous membrane to the introduction of pathogenic microorganisms.

The dosage is set by the doctor, the drug is administered once a day.

To make the effect of the application antiviral agents was pronounced, it is worth starting to use them on initial stage disease, when the first symptoms of a cold appear, and not when the disease lasts 4-5 days.

However, even in these cases, they help to speed up the cure, if there is no accumulation of bacterial infection.

Hormonal drugs

The use of hormonal agents for a cold is due to the severity of its course and the need to administer an additional amount of corticosteroids produced by the human adrenal glands through the nasal mucosa.

Due to the immunosuppressive, desensitizing and anti-inflammatory effect, such drugs quickly relieve chronic and severe rhinitis of various etiologies.

They are used in the treatment of year-round and seasonal allergies, nasal polyposis, sinusitis and sinusitis.

The following sprays are prominent representatives of hormonal nasal agents:

• Fliksonase is a topical preparation based on fluticasone. It has a pronounced anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory effect. It is indicated for children from 4 years old and for adults, pregnant women use it after being prescribed by a doctor.
• Nasonex is a metered dose aerosol containing mometasone. It fights well with rhinitis of an allergic and vasomotor nature, eliminates swelling of the mucous membrane, stops the production of mucous secretions in the nose, relieves itching, sneezing, burning.
• Beconase is a beclomethasone spray. It is used for severe inflammation of the nasal mucosa and signs of allergic rhinitis, it is used not only for treatment, but also for the prevention of seasonal sensitization.
• Nasobek is an aerosol containing beclomethasone. It is administered only intranasally, has a powerful anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic effect. It is prescribed for patients over 6 years old.
• Aldecin, an analogue of beclomethasone-based sprays, is successfully used to treat allergic rhinitis (both seasonal and year-round, with periods of remission and exacerbations). It is not prescribed for children under 6 years of age and nursing mothers; during pregnancy, the question of the need for use is decided by a doctor.

Many patients, having learned about the hormonal components that make up nasal sprays, are afraid of side effects and complications.

It should be clarified that topical application reduces absorption into the bloodstream and systemic action to a minimum, so there is practically no risk of complications, with the exception of drug overdose.

This is the best replacement for vasoconstrictor drugs for the common cold today. A detailed description of this group of drugs and features of their use.

Non-vasoconstrictor drugs

Since nasal congestion is the main companion of the common cold, almost all patients to alleviate the condition immediately run to the pharmacy for a vasoconstrictor, using it without a doctor's recommendation, uncontrollably and without observing the dosage.

Long-term use of such funds, especially when unspecified form rhinitis, leads to a complication in the form (dependence on vasoconstrictor drops).

As a result, the nasal capillaries lose their ability to return to their usual state on their own, and the use of vasoconstrictors does not bring relief, on the contrary, after the end of the action, the vessels expand even more.

To relieve the patient of this condition, doctors prescribe drugs with the opposite effect.

All of them have a hormonal basis, but they allow to eliminate the symptoms of drug-induced rhinitis in the initial stages, when surgical intervention is not yet required:

• Flixotide;
• Avamis;
• Tafen Nazal;
• Nazarel;
• Rhinoclenil.

These drugs not only tone the vessels of the nose, but also improve the absorption and effect of the drugs used for the complex therapy of rhinitis.

They need to be used with caution in patients with an allergic predisposition, in such cases the doctor is responsible for prescribing and dosing.

Solutions of sea salt for the common cold

The best remedy for a cold in its early stages is a saline solution. All doctors tell patients that at the first symptoms of rhinitis, you should not immediately use vasoconstrictor and other drugs, first you need to try to do with rinsing with ordinary table salt, or prepare a solution from sea ​​salt bought at the pharmacy.

The procedure will help to liquefy the mucus accumulated in the nasal passages, remove it outside, and also disinfect the mucous membrane.

To prepare the solution, you need to take 1 teaspoon of sea salt, dissolve it completely in a glass of boiled water and rinse at least 2-3 times a day.

You can add a few drops of lemon juice to the composition, this will stimulate local immunity and increase the body's resistance to colds.

If you do not want to prepare the solution yourself, you can purchase a ready-made isotonic drug from the list below at the pharmacy:

• Aqua Maris - it contains water from the Adriatic Sea, thanks to which the drug helps to normalize the work of ciliary cells, reduce the viscosity of secretions, remove allergens, bacteria and viruses from the nasal cavity, cleanse tissue and reduce swelling. Also, the composition contains useful elements magnesium, chlorine, sodium, calcium and others.
• Marimer is an isotonic solution of sea water, which is used for the treatment and prevention of ENT infections, allergic rhinitis, acute bacterial pathologies of the nose and paranasal sinuses. Allows you to wash off harmful agents (viruses, bacteria, allergens) from the surface of the mucous membrane, relieve a person from congestion and excessive production of mucus.
• Dolphin is a preparation in the form of a powder, which, after mixing with boiled water, is used to rinse the nose. In addition to sea salt, it contains extracts of rosehip and licorice root, which provide a thinning, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and immunomodulatory effect. The irrigation system is equipped with a convenient nozzle that regulates the flow of solution into the nasal cavity and does not create unnecessary pressure.

Also, in the treatment of rhinitis, isotonic solutions Humer, Aqualor, Rinostop Aqua and even simple Sodium chloride (saline) are successfully used.

To combat rhinitis, it is necessary to rinse the nose regularly, and if necessary, use additional funds, to inject them after using saline solutions (this will increase their absorption and effectiveness).

Cold medications with essential oils

Some remedies for the treatment of rhinitis contain essential oils of plants that have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and antiviral effects.

In addition to performing these functions, natural ethers help to soften and restore the mucous tissue of the nasal passages, in order to avoid unnecessary irritation.

It is necessary to tell in more detail about several representatives of such medicines:

• Pinosol.

Contains extracts of eucalyptus, pine and fir, as well as excipients thymol, guaiazulene and vitamin E.

Drops perfectly relieve tissue swelling, facilitate breathing, help thin mucus, and have an anti-inflammatory effect.

Vitamin E is a component that restores damaged mucosal tissues, accelerates their regeneration and has an antioxidant effect. Drops are used even in children and pregnant women, which speaks of their safety and non-toxicity.

• Eucasept.

These are drops, similar in composition and action to the drug Pinosol, but they cost much less (about 40 rubles), which makes them effective and inexpensive means to combat rhinitis.

The plant extracts included in the composition are not addictive, so they can be used for quite a long time.

The danger of products containing eucalyptus oil is only for allergy sufferers, who may experience an unexpected reaction to the use of Eucasept. Therefore, prior to use, it is necessary to consult an allergist.

• Sanorin.

These are drops with combined action, they have a vasoconstrictor and softening effect.

Also, the remedy effectively relieves swelling of the mucous membrane, acts on pathogenic microorganisms, causing their death.

Many patients appreciated the restoration of the nasal epithelium and the powerful antimicrobial effect during use of the drug.

• Nazol Advance.

Oxymetazoline based spray with the addition of eucalyptol (concentrated eucalyptus extract). Oxymetazoline has a long-lasting effect, it makes breathing easier for 12 hours in a row, and the plant extract fights against the multiplication of viruses and bacteria in the nasal cavity, relieves inflammation, liquefies a viscous secretion and promotes its excretion.

The drug has a powerful effect, so it should not be used for more than 3 days in a row.

Preparations for the common cold essential oils- this is a good help in the treatment of the disease. But for the best effect, you must first set the type of pathogen and differentiate rhinitis from or, since in this case, removing the congestion alone will not be enough.

Phytopreparations

This is the name of the means of natural origin that contribute to the rapid elimination of the signs of rhinitis. Most pharmacy medicines have a chemical basis, except for those that contain eucalyptus extracts and essential oils (they were described above).

Tinctures

To cure a runny nose safely and effectively, you can use decoctions and tinctures of plants that have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. These funds include the following:

• calendula is a herb with pronounced antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, it is used to treat viral and bacterial rhinitis, and the plant also has a healing and restorative effect on the nasal mucosa;
• eucalyptus - increases the body's resistance by activating local immunity, has antimicrobial properties, liquefies and removes thick mucus from the nasal cavity;
• St. John's wort- fights against the reproduction of pathogenic flora in the nose, eliminates mucus stagnation, facilitates breathing, reduces inflammation, and also increases the body's resistance;
• aloe and Kalanchoe - the juice of these plants has long been used as a means of fighting rhinitis, it relieves inflammation, increases local immunity, accelerates the recovery of damaged tissues of the mucous epithelium;
• thick-leaved badan- the roots of the plant are successfully used as a remedy for nasal congestion without a runny nose, proceeding in a neglected or chronic form. On the basis of dry raw materials, a powder is prepared for instillation into the nasal cavity;
• ephedra bicolor- on the basis of this medicinal plant, nasal drops are made, with a powerful vasoconstrictor effect.

Tablet form

In addition to the local use of natural extracts of medicinal plants, doctors prescribe herbal preparations in the form of tablets, for example, Cinnabsin.

This homeopathic remedy is used even for sinusitis caused by a bacterial infection, relieves inflammation, reduces mucus secretion in the sinuses, makes breathing easier and improves local immunity.

Among the homeopathic remedies intended for the treatment of the common cold, there are:

• Euphorbium Compositum- drops and spray for local treatment of rhinitis, even in complex and advanced forms, accompanied by dryness and atrophy of the mucous membrane. The drug does not have vasoconstrictor properties, it treats the cause of the common cold, so its use is long-term.
• Rinitol Edas-131 - cleans the nasal passages from viscous and thick mucus, acts as a means of preventing complications of the common cold.
• Delufen is a spray that is safe to treat patients of all ages. Has activity against viruses, bacteria and allergens, even heals chronic forms runny nose.
• Aflubin-Naze - spray for rhinitis, sinusitis and sinusitis. It contains the components of mercury, therefore, the use of the product is contraindicated in patients under 12 years of age and suffering from thyroid pathologies.

Treatment of rhinitis with phytopreparations causes a lot of controversy, both among doctors and patients, for someone they successfully help cope with a runny nose, for someone they turn out to be useless.

However, medicine has long ago singled out homeopathy as a separate branch of science, which once again confirms the effectiveness of a properly prescribed and administered treatment.

Inhalation preparations

Treating a runny nose with an inhaler is effective, reliable and safe. If a nebulizer is used, the drugs will be required without the content of essential oils and suspended particles, since when they enter the respiratory system, they clog the lumens of the bronchi and cause their obstruction.

For ultrasonic inhalations, the following groups of drugs are used:

Saline solutions- they effectively cleanse the nasal cavity from viscous mucus, have a disinfectant and anti-inflammatory effect. For the nebulizer, sodium chloride (saline) is chosen, as well as pharmaceutical isotonic drugs - Aqua Maris, Marimer, Humer, Aqualor, Dolphin. Learn more about how and with what medications to carry out the procedure with a nebulizer.

Alkaline solutions- To eliminate the symptoms of rhinitis, the table mineral waters of Essentuki, Borjomi, Narzan are successfully used. They allow the sinuses to get rid of thick secretions, liquefy purulent masses in bacterial infections, and serve as prevention of rhinitis of various etiologies.

Antimicrobial solutions- are prescribed for the treatment of bacterial rhinitis. The drugs Furacilin, Tobramycin, Dioxidin, Fluimucil are used. These agents thin phlegm, and then promote its gentle removal from the nasal passages and sinuses, and have a disinfecting effect.

Immunomodulators- allow to increase the body's resistance and activate local immunity. In the inhaler, you can use the drugs Cycloferon, Gripferon, Interferon.

Antiallergic drugs- with a runny nose caused by sensitization and accompanied by shortness of breath, the drugs Berotek, Berodual, Ventolin are prescribed. They relieve swelling of the mucous tissue of the nose, larynx and bronchi, facilitate breathing.

Steam inhalations can be carried out using a soda-salt solution (for a disinfecting effect, a couple of drops of iodine are added there), essential oils of thuja, fir, pine, lavender, sea buckthorn, mint. All types of cold and drugs for their implementation.

Let's summarize

As you can see, there are many remedies for the treatment of a common cold. Which one to choose is not only difficult to determine on your own, but also dangerous, since any drug must be approved by a doctor before use.

Particular attention should be paid to people prone to allergies and forced to use antihistamines and hormonal nasal drugs, these groups of medicines always require a doctor's prescription and compliance with the prescribed dosages.

The only remedies that can be used without fear are sea salt solutions and containing natural herbal ingredients, however, their use should be stopped if there is no positive effect within 1-2 weeks, and then consult an ENT doctor.

Runny nose as one of the main signs colds, manifests itself as an inflammatory process in the nasal mucosa, supplemented by sneezing, discomfort, nasal secretions and difficulty breathing.

With a timely visit to a doctor and following the instructions, the patient's condition improves already on the 4th-5th day. But in an advanced form, a harmless rhinitis can provoke the development of complications: otitis media, vasomotor rhinitis, sinusitis. Treatment of rhinitis with tablets gives a positive trend already in the first stages of application.

Important! It is recommended to understand the nature of its occurrence in order to be effective in taking medications.

An integrated approach will help to cure a runny nose, which allows not to eliminate mucous formations containing immune proteins, but to provide significant assistance to the body in their recovery. This requires:

• create favorable climatic conditions;
• Ensure adequate fluid intake to help eliminate poisonous substances from the body and renewal of muconasal secretions (mucus);
• for complications in adults, hormonal medications and antibiotics may be prescribed as directed by a qualified professional.

What groups of medicines should be used for rhinitis?

With a prolonged runny nose, the use of drugs is mandatory, but after a preliminary examination by a specialist. The course of treatment may consist of the use of:

Treatment for rhinitis in adults depends on the cause. The drugs are selected based on the diagnosis. The following drugs are very effective:

The best homeopathic medicines

The use of homeopathic medicines to eliminate rhinitis of any complexity has shown its effectiveness in practice, but under the condition of joint therapy with traditional medicine, and only at the beginning of the onset of the disease. The most effective means include:

Important! Before starting to be treated with homeopathic medicines, it is necessary to carefully study the composition of a particular drug, consult with the attending doctor to establish a possible allergic reaction to one of the components of the drug.

How to treat an allergic rhinitis?

There are no universal medications for the treatment of allergic rhinitis on the pharmacological market yet, the existing categories of drugs affect only specific groups of receptors, blocking them. This algorithm of action can significantly weaken and alleviate the course of allergic rhinitis. These are antihistamines, but glucocorticosteroids are advisable for more complex cases.

At the initial stage of the disease, when symptomatic manifestations still poorly expressed, apply:

If necessary, the prescribed therapy can be supplemented with cromones, for example:

At a too advanced stage of the disease, the attending physician may prescribe a short-term course of systemic glucocorticosteroids, in particular Hydrocortisone, Prednisolone, Beta and Dexamethasone, Fluocortolone.

Antibacterial drugs for rhinitis

Antibiotics, possessing specific properties, penetrate bacteria or into the metabolic process, completely or partially destroying them. With rhinitis, after the first intake of such drugs, the patient feels a noticeable improvement in well-being.

Taking antibacterial drugs is possible only after consultation with the attending physician, when deterioration is observed general condition of the patient, the bacterial infection cannot be cured by other drugs.

In such cases, it is rational to use drugs more strong action, for example:

Antibiotics are indicated for:

To take systemic antibacterial agents, the following manifestations are necessary:

• increased body temperature (over 39 degrees);
• discharge from the nose of an intense or purulent nature;
• painful sensations in the maxillary cavities, forehead, eyes and eyebrows;
• improvements do not occur after 10 days from the moment the disease develops.

Treatment of rhinitis in adults should be supervised by a qualified professional.

To speed up the healing process, it is necessary to strictly adhere to the recommendations of the attending physician and use vitamins to activate the body's defenses.

As soon as autumn comes, one of the most urgent problems in adults and children there is a runny nose. The pathological process manifests itself independently or as a concomitant symptom with a cold. Nasal discharge is not only an aesthetic problem, it can spoil plans and negatively affect the rhythm of life. To quickly and safely get rid of the problem, it is important to find an effective remedy for a runny nose and nasal congestion.

When the first symptoms of a runny nose appear, it is necessary to contact a specialist who, in accordance with the signs of pathology, will select an effective drug and write out a treatment regimen.

To alleviate the patient's condition and facilitate breathing, experts recommend simple measures.

1. Provide cool air and high humidity indoors. Optimum parameters are temperature from +18 to 22 degrees, humidity from 50 to 60%.
2. It is better to raise the head of the bed or place some pillows under the head to help the mucus drain from the nose during sleep.
3. It is necessary to blow out the nose correctly - one nostril at a time, covering the other. Blowing out two nostrils at the same time can provoke the development of acute otitis media.
4. You should not sniffle to exclude the penetration of infection into the nasopharynx.
5. During a runny nose, dry disposable handkerchiefs should be used. Pathogenic microflora quickly multiplies on a wet scarf.

Pharmacy drugs for congestion and runny nose

Today, pharmaceuticals offer a huge selection of drops, sprays, gels and aerosols, the action of which is aimed at relieving nasal breathing and fighting snot.

Vasoconstrictor medicines

These medicines are the most common. They come in two forms: drops, nasal spray.

The active ingredients, getting into the nose, provide a complex positive effect:

• the vessels are narrowed;
• puffiness disappears, which prevents free breathing;
• blood flow slows down, respectively, the intensity of the appearance of mucus decreases.

Such drugs for nasal congestion are intended for short-term use. With prolonged use in the body, immunity to the active ingredient is formed. Experts recommend burying the nose with such medicines for no more than 3-5 days. Otherwise, increasing the dosage will be required to maintain the required efficacy. With constant use, they gradually break down metabolic processes, the walls of blood vessels become thin and fragile, nosebleeds occur.

Rules for the use of drugs:

• used once, when you need to quickly restore breathing;
• do not appoint at the first sign of a cold, you need to try to return nasal breathing through breathing exercises;
• for daytime use, short-acting agents (from 3 to 4 hours) are suitable, at night, drugs are used that act from 8-12 hours;
• the use of drugs is minimized (only with severe nasal congestion), at the first symptoms of improvement, you need to switch to weak salt solutions and inhalation.

An overview of the active ingredients and a list of products.

Xylometazoline

The most common active ingredient used in the production of daytime drops. The component is limited to 4 hours. Dosage forms - drops, gel. List of the most famous remedies:

• Galazolin;
• Xymelin;
• "Grippostad".

It is important! Spray is the most comfortable and economical form, as it provides uniform distribution of the drug over the mucous membrane and dosage.

Oxymetazoline

Substance with prolonged action (10-12 hours), used for the production of night medications.

• "Nazivin" - produced in different forms (drops, spray), dosage for adults and children is also provided;
• "Nazol" - an effective Italian spray for severe nasal congestion caused by acute rhinitis;
• "Fervex" - quickly restores nasal breathing;
• Nazol Advance is a multicomponent medication supplemented with ingredients that eliminate the sensation of dryness.

Useful information! The active ingredient is toxic and is prohibited when diabetes mellitus, pathologies of the kidneys and pregnancy.

Naphazoline

The substance acts for 4-6 hours, the main advantage is that medicines are the most inexpensive.

• "Naphtizin" - used as a remedy for rhinitis and congestion and for conjunctivitis of a bacterial nature;
• "Sanorin" - in addition to the active ingredient, contains eucalyptus oil, petroleum jelly, boric acid;
• "Tizin" is a modern remedy with high efficiency and prolonged action.

Moisturizing medicines

They are not used to combat the common cold, they are prescribed as an aid for the fastest elimination of mucus. Moisturizing medicines are an indispensable part of complex therapy, since excessive dryness of the mucous membranes causes microcracks and complicates the outflow of mucus. Such drugs are most effective for chronic rhinitis. Mineral or sea water is used for production. The composition does not contain chemical components that cause side effects.

The best medicines:

• Aquamaris;
• Aqualor.

It is important! If the runny nose is not accompanied by swelling, but only mucus is present, the treatment is carried out with moisturizers.

Remedies for puffiness and allergies

After application:

• puffiness disappears;
• breathing is restored;
• signs of an allergic reaction disappear.

Drugs used for allergic rhinitis:

• "Vibrocil" - a Swiss-made medication, produced in several forms, does not cause side effects;
• "Sanorin-Anallergin" - effective drops, but cause drowsiness;
• "Coldakt" - Indian-made tablets, can cause side effects;
• "Orinol" - American-made tablets.

Hormonal medications

The drugs are based on steroid (hormonal) ingredients, they are also prescribed for allergic rhinitis. Main feature - active ingredients do not penetrate into the bloodstream, act locally and therefore do not affect the level of hormones throughout the body. The assortment includes the only one dosage form- spray. Medicines do not have an immediate effect (after 4-6 hours) and only eliminate the symptoms of a cold, but not its cause.

Most requested:

• "Nazonex";
• "Beconase";
• "Aldecin";
• Fliksonase.

It is important! Hormonal drugs for nasal congestion and allergic rhinitis are categorically contraindicated in rhinitis of a bacterial nature, since they can provoke active reproduction of pathogenic microflora.

Antimicrobial agents

Formulated with ingredients vegetable origin that destroy pathogenic microflora. They are prescribed for rhinitis of fungal and bacterial origin, they eliminate puffiness and restore the mucous membrane.

Antimicrobial drugs:

• "Doctor Theiss Nazolin" - destroys bacteria, constricts blood vessels;
• "Pinosol" - created from a composition of essential oils, which neutralizes the action of pathogenic microflora, is presented in several forms (drops, spray, ointment);
• "Polydexa with Phenylephrine" - contains ingredients that provide anti-inflammatory and vasoconstrictor effects.

Herbal medicines

They have a refreshing effect due to essential oils. The drops contain oils with a strong menthol effect. Herbal remedies do not eliminate puffiness and do not constrict blood vessels. The action of medications is based on the feeling of pleasant cold and freshness, it is they that eliminate the unpleasant signs of pathology.

Popular drops - "Sinupret" - a drug based on several active ingredients, activates the outflow of mucus, eliminates inflammation and has a mucolytic effect. Drops moisturize the mucous membrane, eliminate irritation.

Antiviral drugs

The action is aimed at combating directly with the cause of the common cold. They are prescribed as therapy for viral infection as well as for prevention. Donor leukocytes are used for the production of medicines, they also use the principles genetic engineering... The droplets destroy many types of viruses and slow down their reproduction rate.

The most popular drug is Grippferon. In addition to drops, capsules ("Arbidol") and suppositories ("Viferon") are produced.

Silver drops

A solution with silver particles is a powerful antiseptic. Prescribed for the prevention of chronic rhinitis.

Silver-based preparations:

• Collargol;
• "Protargol".

Antibacterial drops

It should be borne in mind that a runny nose, which is of a bacterial nature, is the beginning of the development of sinusitis or sinusitis. To stop the spread of the disease in a timely manner, antibiotic-based drops, spray or aerosol are prescribed. The active ingredients penetrate the nasal sinuses, have a detrimental effect on the pathogenic microflora.

List of popular drugs:

• Framycetin;
• "Polydexa";
• "Mupirocin".

It is important! During pregnancy, it is better to give preference to antibiotics for the common cold in the form of a spray, since the active ingredients act locally and do not harm the fetus.

Folk remedies for nasal congestion and runny nose

Traditional medicine offers many recipes for successfully combating rhinitis at home. Consider the most effective and affordable ones.

Rinsing the nose

Experts call washing the most effective way for the treatment of the common cold. The healing solution penetrates into the paranasal sinuses and acts directly in the focus of the pathology.

There are a huge number of recipes for solutions, but sea water or a solution of pure sea salt (without aromatic additives) is considered the most effective. Sea water rich in minerals, iodine, which provide a healing effect.

Preparation of the solution - step by step instructions.

1. Heat the water to a temperature of + 38- + 42 degrees;
2. Add 1 tsp to a glass of water. pure sea salt, a quarter teaspoon of baking soda and a few drops of iodine.
3. Additionally, a tincture of calendula or eucalyptus is added to the solution (0.5 tsp per glass of water).

How to rinse the nasal cavity - step by step instructions.

1. Draw up liquid in a syringe or syringe.
2. Insert the tip or needle into the nostril.
3. Leaning forward, inject liquid into the nostril under slight pressure. The solution passes freely through the nasopharynx and flows out through the opposite nostril.

If you have a small teapot, you can use it.

1. Fill the kettle with the solution.
2. Lean forward and turn your head slightly.
3. Pour the solution into the nostril located above. The solution should flow freely from the opposite nostril.

Inhalation

Another effective folk recipe from a cold - inhalation. During the procedure, healing vapors enter the nasal mucosa and act in the lesion focus.

Inhalation recipes.

1. If a runny nose is just beginning, prepare soda solution with herbal decoctions. To do this, pour a liter of water into a saucepan, bring to a boil, add a handful of eucalyptus leaves and bring to a boil again, remove from heat, leave for 5 minutes, add a tablespoon of soda. Breathing over the steam, covered with a towel, takes 10-15 minutes.
2. Instead of eucalyptus leaves, inflorescences of calendula, chamomile are used and a little “Asterisk” balm (with a match head) is added.
3. For inhalation use a decoction pine buds... For 1 liter of water, take 3 tbsp. spoons of kidneys and brew for 10 minutes. You need to breathe over the steam for 10 to 15 minutes.

It is important! The procedures warm up the paranasal sinuses, eliminate inflammation, swelling, and kill pathogenic microflora.

Folk drops from nasal congestion

For instillation, the following means are used:

• oils (sea buckthorn, menthol or fir), it is enough to instill 2-3 drops in each nostril;
• juices (beets, carrots, aloe, Kalanchoe) are instilled 1-2 drops into each nostril, onion juice is diluted with water - in 1 tbsp. 1 drop of onion juice is diluted with water and 2-3 drops are instilled into each nostril;
• honey is diluted in water (for 2 parts of water 1 part of honey), 2-3 drops are instilled into the nose with a solution.

It is important! The basic principle of the procedure is to first drip one nostril and wait a few minutes. If there is no discomfort, a second nostril can be instilled. If discomfort in the form of a burning sensation appears, the instillation solution is diluted with water in equal proportions.

Instead of instillation, you can put tampons soaked in a medicinal solution into the nose. However, it should be borne in mind that the drug does not penetrate into paranasal sinuses... The procedure is suitable for patients with mild rhinitis without mucus.

You can only bury the nose after rinsing, so that both nostrils are clean. The technology is as follows - turn your head to the left, throw it back slightly and instill the left nostril. After 2-3 minutes, repeat the procedure with the right nostril. After 5 minutes you can blow your nose.

Warming up the nose

Coarse salt, any grits or ordinary sand are well heated in a frying pan. They are folded into two cloth bags and applied to the nose. The procedure is carried out twice a day for 10-15 minutes.

It is important! Warming up is prohibited with sinusitis with the formation of pus.

Homeopathy

The essence of homeopathic treatment is the effect on the body of the substances against which the treatment is directed. Each homeopathic preparation contains toxic components in a multiply diluted concentration. According to the creator of the alternative direction of medicine, the use of such medicines is much more effective than therapy with traditional medicines.

Before starting a course of treatment with a homeopathic remedy, you will need to consult a homeopathic doctor. Medicines, if used improperly, can harm the body, this is due to the content of dangerous active ingredients.

Only a specialist will select an effective remedy and write out a therapy regimen. This is especially true if a patient with a cold has allergic reactions or pathologies in a chronic form.

It is important! The action of each homeopathic remedy is aimed at combating certain symptoms and different kinds rhinitis, which is why a doctor's consultation is important.

If a runny nose is complicated by fever, concomitant pathologies (sinusitis, bronchitis), homeopathic treatment is ineffective. In such cases, the doctor prescribes stronger medications according to the nature and intensity of the symptoms.

Action homeopathic remedies complex:

• eliminate puffiness;
• destroy pathogenic microflora;
• strengthen the immune system;
• activate the outflow of mucus.

List of in-demand drugs:

• "Allium Tsepa" is prescribed for rhinitis in the acute phase, accompanied by cough;
• Aconite is used for rhinitis with fever, excessive dryness of the mucous membranes;
• "Arsenicum Album" is prescribed for rhinitis in the acute phase, accompanied by discharge;
• "Arum Trifillum" is prescribed for a cold, accompanied by inflammatory process in the nose;
• "Gepar Sulfur" is effective for complex forms of rhinitis with greenish discharge;
• "Sabadila" helps with a cold caused by hypothermia.

Contraindications

The main advantage of homeopathy is the minimum list of contraindications, however, there are certain restrictions on the use of such drugs:

• hypersensitivity to individual components;
• allergy;
• pregnancy;
• lactation.

It is important! In rare cases, allergies are possible.