I have a mildly deviated septum and allegies, but, the only real time I have a problem with my breathing is at night. I have lived and visited quite a few places and my breathing problem occurs no matter where I am and tends to plug up the right side of my nose on a regular basis. I have tried clarotin and nasalcort and each worked for a short time, but, neither appear to work now.
any suggestions?
Would a room air cleaner of humidifier help?
thank you
Reply: -------------------------
Claritin is an antihistamine which is useful for certain allergic symptoms such as watery nasal drainage, itchy or watery eyes, or sneezing but typically does not offer much benefit for nasal stuffiness. Topical nasal steroid sprays such as Nasacort would be more likely to offer benefit for nasal stuffiness but would most likely need to be used on a regular basis. If the symptom is experienced nightly, topical nasal steroid would most likely be the medication that is safest, has least undesirable side effects, and would provide the most benefit. Decongestants might improve nasal stuffiness but frequently have the undesirable side effect of interfering with sleep much like the effects of caffeine. A relatively simple means of improving nasal airflow at night would be the use of Breathe Right nasal strips which serve to dilate the nostril openings.
Whether or not surgical therapy would be helpful or advisable depends upon a determination of the primary cause of obstruction (ie physical examination of the nose) and how much the symptom bothers you.
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Steve Dankle, MD
Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
Milwaukee, Wis
NOTICE: OFCN is not engaged in the rendering of professional medical services. The information contained on this system or any other OFCN system should not supplant individual professional consultation. It is offered exclusively as a community education service. Advice on individual problems must be obtained directly from a professional.
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