For people suffering with allergic reactions to pollens, smells, etc. might suffer from congestion, (blocked nose). Congestion makes it difficult for people to breathe freely and easily, therefore it can harm several regular activities of the person.

This is where decongestants can be of help. Decongestants work towards helping you breathe freely. Decongestants reduce the size of blood vessels inside nose and thus reducing size of the inflamed membrane and allow free flow of air.

Allergy

Decongestants are available in different forms, if you wish you can take these in pill form, nasal drops or sprays. Nasal decongestants are required to be taken in the nose, these are most of the times liquid drops. Decongestants start working immediately and offer instant relief to its users.

There are two types of decongestants in the form of pills these are pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine, any medications containing these drugs can be bought OTC or over-the-counter. These medications will not require you to provide any prescription to the druggist.

Decongestants like nasal sprays should not be used for more than 5 days at a stretch, these sprays often cause swelling in nasal passage and restricts passing of further air, rather than allowing it. Nasal sprays also might aggravate the symptoms instead of suppressing these; therefore usage should be kept at a minimal.

For all those suffering from heart ailments or those who have undergone surgery, it is necessary to consult a physician before taking the decongestant, this will avoid any side effects.

Generally decongestants are over the counter drugs except in some special cases, therefore, these do not have any side effects, if these are not taken for a prolonged period of time. For all those who have been taking decongestants for a long period might require to face some mild side effects of these drugs.

People who are allergic to certain medicines should know the chemicals they are allergic to, or else consult their doctor before taking decongestants; this will help you avoiding any further complications resulting from these allergies.

Some people might face some side effects of decongestions if one of the chemicals does not suit them, these side effects can be drowsiness, sleepy feeling, palpitations, increase in blood pressure, etc. people should consult their doctor if they are already taking some anti-allergic medication for any other allergy. Sometimes decongestants are combined with antihistamines to reduce effect of allergies all together. You should be aware of effect and reason for taking each medicine.