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Sinus and nasal congestion

If you’re suffering from a stuffy head and pain in your sinuses while you have a cold or flu, chances are you’re dealing with nasal congestion. When you’re all stuffed up, the simple act of breathing can be difficult. On top of that, you might feel tired and just plain dreary.

But what is nasal congestion, exactly? Nasal congestion (or “stuffy nose”) is often called “rhinitis” by healthcare providers. “Rhino” is a Greek prefix meaning the nose, and “–itis” refers to inflammation. Therefore, rhinitis is the inflammation of the linings of the nasal cavity.

Nasal congestion can be caused by viruses when you have a cold or flu, or by allergens like dust and pollen. These intruders cause inflammation in the nasal passageways, which creates swelling that greatly reduces or even blocks the airflow through the nostrils.

In addition to inflammation, nasal congestion is also the result of dilation (enlargement) of the large blood vessels (veins) in the nose that shrink the volume of the nasal cavity and reduce airflow. Contrary to the common belief that excess mucus is the primary cause of a stuffy nose, it is in fact the swelling of the nasal lining that leads to nasal congestion.

If you have nasal congestion with your cold or flu, you will likely experience a stuffy or runny nose and [pain in your forehead](https://www.vicks.co.uk/treatments-and-tips/nasal-congestion/how-to-identify-a-sinus-headache) and under your eyes. You may also feel tired and have difficulty breathing through your nose.

![Range of Vicks Inhaler Nasal Stick and Nasal Spray Solution for relief from stuffy nose](//images.ctfassets.net/lvahr7yfxlsw/5mh6ZhBHICMJjkMqoMFLNN/ac19564f420cd7bab99c8752ed87b5e5/sinexmicromistsootherinhalerjpg.jpg)

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF NASAL CONGESTION?

Nonprescription vasoconstrictors, such as phenylephrine, relieve nasal congestion by shrinking the inflamed linings (or “mucosa”) of the nose through a process called “vasoconstriction” (constriction of the blood vessels). Shrinking these tissues opens the airways, reducing resistance and improving airflow.

For fast relief, try [<u>Vicks Sinex Micromist</u>](https://www.vicks.co.uk/products/decongestants/vicks-sinex-micromist-nasal-spray). Sinex Micromist can unblock
your nose in minutes and give up to 8 hours of relief. It contains oxymetazoline hydrochloride, which can effectively clear up nasal congestion. You can also try [<u>Vicks Sinex Soother</u>](https://www.vicks.co.uk/products/decongestants/vicks-sinex-soother-nasal-spray) which effectively helps to relieve your blocked nose for upto 12 hours. Sinex Soother contains oxymetazoline hydrochloride. Sinex Soother also contains aloe vera to
help give a soothing sensation. In addition to relieving congestion due to cold or flu, both Sinex Micromist and Sinex Soother can be used during hay fever or sinusitis to relieve you of blocked nose.

Sinex Micromist and Sinex Soother do not cure nasal congestion, they both can help relieve your symptoms.

If your nasal congestion is due to cold or flu it is common and usually clears up on its own within one to two weeks. If your nasal congestion is the result of allergies, it may last longer. Taking a nasal decongestant can help control your symptoms.

You can help prevent nasal congestion due to cold and flu viruses by practicing good hygiene. Wash your hands frequently, avoid sharing drinking glasses or utensils, use alcohol-based hand sanitizers and avoid close contact with people who are sick. If your nasal congestion is allergy-related, it’s best to avoid allergens (such as dust, pollen, and smoke) that may irritate your nasal passageways. Using nasal saline sprays or rinses can also help with nasal congestion due to allergies.

__MAINTAIN A HIGH LEVEL OF HYGIENE__

__WASH YOUR HANDS FREQUENTLY__

__SANITIZE YOUR HANDS__

__AVOID CONTACT WITH SICK PEOPLE__

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