Cough & Cold
Iliadin® is an effective cold remedy that is sold in over 50 countries around the globe.
Nasal DecongestantAnyone who has ever had a cold or a blocked nose will know how torturous it can be not being able to breathe properly. For some, it is only a temporary nuisance that goes away by itself within a week. For others, it can disrupt their lives as it affects sleep, hence reducing alertness, concentration and overall productivity.
For children, nasal congestion has even more serious implications, as it affects hearing, speech and learning. It can also be dangerous for very young babies, as it interferes with breastfeeding which can severely impact their overall growth and development.
MERCK is proudly recognised as the “Decongestant Expert", being the pioneer and one of the leading pharmaceutical companies in the world producing decongestants for colds and allergies.
In Malaysia, MERCK offers a range of nasal decongestants for both adults and children and is the only company offering decongestants for infants containing the lowest strength of active ingredients.
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What is nasal congestion?
Treatment of nasal congestion
What is Nasal Congestion?Nasal congestion, also known as nasal blockage, nasal obstruction, blocked nose, runny nose, and stuffy nose, happens when the membranes lining the nose is swollen due to inflamed blood vessels. Nasal congestion can cause facial and head pain and a great deal of discomfort, leading to sleeplessness and loss of appetite.
Although many wrongly assume that nasal congestion happens due to excessive mucus in the nose. The truth is that it can be caused by different factors, such as:
Infection – Nasal congestion is a common symptom when we are having a cold, flu or other forms ofviral or bacterial infection. When there is an infection, the nasal membranes become inflamed and secrete more mucus, resulting in nasal congestion.
Allergic rhinitis – The nose gets congested when there are allergens such as certain foods, pollen, mould, dust or chemicals around. This causes the body to release histamine, which results in symptoms such as runny noses and itchy, watery eyes.
Structural abnormalities – People with enlarged adenoids, a deviated septum or trauma-related nose deformity usually suffer from nasal congestion. Surgery to remove the adenoids and tonsils or straighten the septum is usually required to correct these conditions.
Vasomotor rhinitis - Vasomotor refers to the nerves controlling the nasal blood vessels. Usually these blood vessels are in a half-constricted state. Under certain conditions, such as vigorous exercise, pregnancy, psychological stress, prolonged use of nasal decongestants and exposure to irritants like smoke and perfumes, the blood vessels tend to expand and congest the nasal membranes.
Nasal congestion is usually treated with:
Decongestant nasal sprays or drops – They work by shrinking the blood vessels in the nasal lining to relieve stuffiness. However, it will not relieve a runny nose. Another word of caution- decongestants must not be used for more than three days because they can make the congestion worse.
Antihistamines - They reduce the production of mucus and make breathing easier. Some antihistamines can cause drowsiness and should be avoided by people who are driving or operating any form of equipment. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist about a non-sedative antihistamine if you need to stay alert.It also helps to take extra fluids such ashot tea or chicken soup, and use a vaporizer or humidifier to increase the humidity in the air. These remedies help by thinning the mucus and making your breathing easier. Rest and sleep are also recommended.If the nasal congestion lasts more than 5 days and is accompanied by swelling of the forehead and eyes, blurred vision, coughing, production of yellow or green sputum, consult a health professional.
References:
1. http://www.mercksource.com/
2. American Academy of Otolaryngology- Head & Neck Surgery
3. Loma Linda University Medical Center Health Guides & Resources
1. http://www.mercksource.com/
2. American Academy of Otolaryngology- Head & Neck Surgery
3. Loma Linda University Medical Center Health Guides & Resources
