How To Treat Viral Nasopharyngitis

Decongestants And Antihistamines

For symptoms of viral nasopharyngitis that involve a runny nose, cough, sneezing, and stuffy nose, decongestants and antihistamines are also great treatment options. Some medications only have one or the other, and some medications combine them along with a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication to help curb a fever, body aches, and headaches. Decongestants work by decreasing the inflammation and swelling that occurs in the nose and throat, helping an individual breath better and alleviating the uncomfortable pressure. Antihistamines work by inhibiting histamine, a chemical the body produces in response to foreign substances. Histamine is a part of the human immune system and causes itching and swelling in the nose, throat, and eyes. Often times, nighttime cold medications are made with a higher ratio of antihistamine to decongestant because antihistamines are known to induce drowsiness. Daytime cold medications may contain a higher ratio of decongestant to antihistamine because decongestants keep individuals awake. While both of these active ingredients do not cure viral nasopharyngitis or other similar conditions, they can have a huge influence in reducing symptoms.

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Using A Humidifier

Using a humidifier to help relieve some symptoms of viral nasopharyngitis may be ideal for young children and individuals who reside in cold dry climates. The viruses that can cause a cold tend to live on surfaces in the home once a member of the household has been infected with it. Keeping the humidity level inside the home between forty to sixty percent can help eradicate some of the viruses living on surfaces and floating around in the air. A humidifier is an electronic device that turns water into vapor to increase the humidity inside a home or building. Humidifiers can assist with congestion and cough relief because dry air exacerbates inflammation in the nose and airways. Along with a reduction in inflammation, steam products can be added which have the active ingredient of a cough suppressant. Humidifiers are especially good at helping break apart the thick mucus that often lines the nose, throat, and even the lungs of an individual with viral nasopharyngitis. When the mucus is broken up, it is easier to rid the body of it and stop further mucus build up.

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