Which over-the-counter medications are often used to treat nasal congestion?

• A. Antihistamines like diphenhydramine
• B. Decongestants such as pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine
• C. Analgesics like ibuprofen
• D. Expectorants like guaifenesin

Answer: (B)

Decongestants relieve nasal congestion by quickly shrinking the swollen nasal blood vessels. They stimulate receptors that cause vasoconstriction, which reduces mucosal swelling and opens up the nasal passages for easier airflow. That direct action on the congestion itself makes decongestants the most effective OTC option for clearing a stuffy nose. Common examples you’ll find are pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine.

Other types address different symptoms. Analgesics like ibuprofen ease pain and fever, not the nasal blockage. Expectorants like guaifenesin help loosen mucus but don’t reduce the swelling that causes congestion. Antihistamines can help if the congestion is allergy-related, but they aren’t as consistently effective for pure nasal blockage and can dry the nasal passages in a way that doesn’t always improve flow. If you use decongestants, use them for a short time and be mindful of blood pressure or heart conditions, and avoid rebound congestion with nasal sprays by limiting duration.