These combination products are expensive to use and the doses may be inadequate for severe symptoms or too potent for mild symptoms. Be a cautious cold medication consumer. Review your symptoms, consult your health care provider or pharmacist as needed, and read the labels on the products you are choosing. Follow recommended dosages on the product label. For congestion, stuffy nose, and ear pressure.
Congestion is caused by swelling of the mucous membranes in the respiratory passages.
Drinking extra fluids and taking hot, steamy showers can help relieve this congestion. Decongestants can also help to shrink swollen membranes and reduce stuffiness. Don't use these if you have high blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid disease or heart disease. A productive cough performs a useful function by loosening mucus and bringing it up, helping the body to rid itself of the secretions caused by the virus. A nonproductive cough, which may also warrant treatment, is the dry, hacking kind that can interfere with sleep.