COVID-19 often brings symptoms like congestion and sinus pressure. Many experience a stuffy nose, facial pain, and headaches. These symptoms can range from mild to significant, impacting daily comfort. This article guides managing COVID-19-related congestion and sinus pressure.
Over-the-Counter Options
Over-the-counter (OTC) medications can offer relief for COVID-19 congestion. Decongestants are a common choice, constricting blood vessels in nasal passages to reduce swelling and improve airflow. Common active ingredients include pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine, available orally and as nasal sprays. Oral decongestants can cause side effects like increased heart rate or elevated blood pressure. Nasal decongestant sprays provide rapid relief but risk worsening congestion if used too long.
Antihistamines are helpful, especially if congestion includes allergy-like symptoms or post-nasal drip. They block histamine, which contributes to nasal swelling and discharge. Some antihistamines may cause drowsiness. Pain relievers and fever reducers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can alleviate headaches, sinus pain, and body aches. These do not directly address congestion but can significantly improve overall discomfort.
Home Care and Natural Remedies
Beyond medications, home care strategies and natural remedies can alleviate COVID-19 congestion and sinus pressure. Maintaining hydration is important; drinking fluids like water, clear broths, and herbal teas helps thin mucus. Steam inhalation offers relief by introducing warm, moist air to the airways. Taking a hot shower, using a humidifier, or breathing steam can loosen thick mucus and reduce irritation.
Saline nasal rinses or sprays effectively flush out irritants and thin mucus. Use distilled or sterile water with these rinses to prevent introducing harmful microorganisms. Elevating the head while sleeping can promote better sinus drainage and reduce nighttime congestion.
Propping the head with an extra pillow can prevent mucus from pooling. Applying warm compresses to the face can provide comfort and relieve sinus pressure. Rest remains fundamental for recovery, allowing the body to conserve energy and focus on healing.
When to Contact a Doctor
Understanding when to seek medical advice for COVID-19 symptoms is important. Contact a doctor if congestion significantly worsens or does not improve with home care or OTC remedies. Seek medical attention if new or severe symptoms develop. Warning signs include difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain or pressure, new confusion, or inability to wake or stay awake. Bluish lips or face also indicate a need for immediate care.
Individuals with pre-existing conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, asthma, or diabetes should consult their doctor before new medications or if symptoms persist. Immunocompromised individuals need to be cautious and seek medical guidance promptly. Contact a doctor if congestion lasts longer than expected or is accompanied by signs of a secondary infection, such as green or yellow nasal discharge or severe facial pain.
Avoiding Rebound Congestion
Rebound congestion, or rhinitis medicamentosa, develops from overuse of certain nasal decongestant sprays. This occurs when nasal passages become dependent on the medication, leading to a cycle where congestion worsens as the spray wears off, prompting more frequent use. Active ingredients like oxymetazoline and phenylephrine constrict blood vessels; prolonged use disrupts natural blood flow regulation in the nasal lining.
To prevent rebound congestion, limit decongestant nasal sprays to no more than 3 to 5 days. Exceeding this duration increases the risk. If congestion persists beyond this timeframe, or if rebound congestion is suspected, consider alternatives. Saline nasal sprays offer a safe option for regular use, moisturizing and clearing nasal passages without dependency. For chronic or severe congestion, consulting a doctor can lead to long-term solutions, including prescription nasal steroid sprays or other treatments.