"I've been sick with a cold for a few days with an annoyingly stuffy nose. What can I do about this?'
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Drugstore Linda: Those who are plagued by persistent colds are most quickly helped with a nasal spray or drops based on oxymetazoline or xylometazoline. These nasal sprays cause the mucous membrane to shrink, making it easier to breathe. The sprays may be sprayed into each nostril 4 to 6 times a day. Use these sprays for a maximum of 7 days, otherwise there is a risk that the nasal mucosa will be permanently damaged.
When should you be careful when using nasal spray? Because of their vasoconstrictive effect, you should be extra careful with these nasal sprays if you have high blood pressure or heart palpitations. If you prefer to use a different type of product, you can opt for a nasal spray or drops based on physiological salt. These cleanse the nasal cavity and soften the mucous membranes and have little or no side effects.
And if I don't want to use nasal spray or drops?
Then it makes sense to steam with products based on eucalyptus and menthol or chamomile blossom. The steam opens the airways, soothes the mucous membranes and the healing effect penetrates deep into the body. Steaming with hot water from the tap or water from the kettle that has been off the boil for a while is sufficient. The use of boiling water increases the risk of damage to the skin or the respiratory tract.
Rubbing agent A cold rub provides relief while sleeping when rubbed on the chest. The vapors with essential oils provide good relief from the complaints, making it easier to breathe through the nose. In addition, this reduces the risk of cough and throat complaints, because the mucous membranes become less irritated when breathing is not through the mouth. Please note:products with volatile substances such as menthol are not suitable for children under 2 years of age.
You can also choose to rub a little rubbing agent or a broken inhalation capsule on a handkerchief and breathe through it occasionally with the nose. This way you can quickly breathe more freely.
Are there other things I can do?
It makes sense to ventilate the bedroom well. Preferably use paper tissues and throw them away after using them once. This way you prevent handkerchiefs from becoming a source of bacteria…
Get well soon! Linda
Who is Linda?
Linda is a certified druggist and works in a drugstore with the Certified Specialist in Self-Care quality mark, which is the quality mark for good advice on over-the-counter medicines. On www.erkendspecialistinzelfzorg.nl you can find out which drugstores in your area have this quality mark and what you as a customer can expect from these drugstores.
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