Nasal Congestion

Question 1

What is nasal congestion?

Answer 1

Dilation of nasal blood vessels due to infection, inflammation, or allergy

This dilation leads to transudation of fluid into tissue spaces, causing swelling of the nasal cavity.

Question 2

What causes dilation of nasal blood vessels?

Answer 2

• Infection
• Inflammation
• Allergy

Dilation leads to fluid transudation into tissue spaces.

Question 3

What are the actions of nasal decongestants?

Answer 3

• Stimulate alpha-adrenergic receptors (sympathomimetic)
• Produce nasal vascular constriction
• Shrink nasal mucous membranes
• Reduce nasal secretion

These actions help alleviate nasal congestion.

Question 4

What are the uses of nasal decongestants?

Answer 4

• Allergic rhinitis
• Hay fever
• Acute coryza

These conditions often involve nasal congestion that can be relieved by decongestants.

Question 5

What is a potential problem with overuse of nasal decongestants?

Answer 5

• Tolerance
• Rebound congestion in 3 days
• Dryness
• Epistaxis
• Can lead to HTN

Overuse can result in worsening symptoms rather than relief.