In the United States, allergic rhinitis, also commonly known as

, is estimated to affect 20% of adults and 40% of pediatric patients. For many allergy sufferers, allergic rhinitis can negatively impact an individual’s quality of life, including daily activities, by impairing concentration and causing fatigue and sleep disturbances. Many people with allergic rhinitis may also have asthma. Unfortunately, the number of newly diagnosed cases continues to increase annually, and hay fever symptoms tend to flare up in the spring and fall. Perennial allergic rhinitis symptoms occur all year long.

Symptoms typically occur rapidly after someone is exposed to the allergen, and they vary in severity from person to person. Common symptoms include 1 or more of the following:

When a person with allergic rhinitis encounters an allergen, such as pollen, mold or pet dander, the body releases chemicals that cause the allergy symptoms. Common triggers include the following.

Pollen from trees, weeds, and grass in the spring and late summer

pores from indoor and outdoor fungi and molds

Your doctor may order skin and blood tests to determine the cause of your allergies, perform a physical examination, and review your medical history and symptoms to assess your allergies.

The most effective way to prevent allergy symptoms is to adhere to allergy therapy and take steps to control allergy symptoms, including:

Take allergy medications before symptoms start

Close doors and windows during pollen season

Vacuum and clean carpeting and upholstery routinely

Use allergy-proof covers on mattress and pillows

Use HEPA filters for heating and air units

Wash bedding in hot water at least once a week

Treatment depends on the cause of your allergies, your symptoms, the severity of your symptoms, and your medical and medication history. Treatments may include avoidance of triggers if feasible and the use of an antihistamine, a nasal or oral corticosteroid, a decongestant, cromolyn sodium, a leukotriene modifier, nasal ipratropium, or immunotherapy (allergy shots). Your doctor will determine the best treatment for your individual needs.

While clinical data are limited, a number of alternative remedies have been used to manage allergy symptoms, including:

If you are considering using alternative therapies or supplements, you should talk to your doctor or pharmacist before using these products to discuss the best ways to manage your allergy symptoms and so that potential drug interactions and contraindications can be avoided.

Several OTC products can be used to treat allergic rhinitis symptoms, including oral and ocular antihistamines, oral and nasal decongestants, mast cell stabilizers, and a recently FDA-approved nasal spray that was once available by prescription only. To prevent potential drug interactions and contraindications, it is important to consult your doctor or pharmacist before using these products. A pharmacist can also provide advice or recommendations based on symptoms and patient preferences.

National Institutes of Health’s National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases

American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology

Articles

Cough/Cold/Allergy: Allergic Rhinitis

There are many OTC products to keep families healthy.

In the United States, cold season generally occurs from late August through early April, but individuals can get a cold at any time of year. The common cold is a highly contagious acute viral infection of the upper respiratory system and is one of the most common reasons for absence from both work and school.

Influenza, commonly referred to as the seasonal flu, is a very contagious respiratory infection caused by the influenza viruses. Influenza affects the nose, throat, and lungs and can sometimes lead to serious health complications and even death. In the United States, flu season usually occurs between October and May, peaking between late December and March. The elderly, children, pregnant women, and those with certain medical conditions are at high risk for developing flu complications.

Colds tend to have a gradual onset with symptoms developing over a few days, usually beginning with a sore or irritated throat and low-grade fever (rarely exceeding 100ºF). Conversely, flu symptoms, especially fever, come on quickly (within 3-6 hours). Fever is present in at least 80% of all flu cases. A temperature of 100°F or higher for 3 to 4 days is associated with the flu.

Hacking, productive cough (mucus-producting) often present

Nonproductive cough (does not produce mucus) usually present

Very common; typically resolves spontaneously within a week

More than 200 viruses can cause the common cold, but the majority are caused by rhinoviruses. Rhinoviruses can live up to 3 hours on your skin and up to 3 hours on surfaces and objects such as toys, doorknobs, pens, and telephones.

The influenza virus enters the body via the mucous membranes of your nose, mouth, and eyes. The virus can easily be contracted via airborne transmission of respiratory droplets when someone sneezes or coughs, through direct contact with an infected person, or through contact with contaminated objects (an individual touches the  contaminated object and then touches his or her mouth, eyes, or nose).

No definitive medical tests exist to diagnose the common cold or flu. Diagnosis is generally based on the patient’s symptoms and/or physical examination findings. If necessary, some doctors may also use a flu test known as the “rapid influenza” test to confirm the diagnosis. This test can provide results in about 15 to 30 minutes.

Washing your hands with soap and warm water is considered one of the most effective means of cold and flu prevention. Many health experts agree that the best way to prevent the influenza virus is to receive the annual flu vaccine. If the virus is on your hands, it can easily enter your body through your eyes and nasal cavity, so keep your hands away from your eyes and nose when possible. The following additional measures may prevent or reduce your chances of getting a cold or the flu or transmitting the virus to others:

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends using alcohol-based hand sanitizers to disinfect your hands when soap and water are not available.

If possible, avoid being in close proximity to those who are sick, and avoid being around others if you are sick.

When you sneeze or cough, cover your nose or mouth.

Sneeze or cough into your elbow or a tissue instead of your hand.

Wash your hands after coughing or sneezing.

Routinely clean environmental surfaces with disinfectants.

While recovering from a cold or the flu, it is important to stay home, get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, and monitor for and treat fever. If your symptoms do not improve or if they worsen, you should immediately contact your doctor to avoid potential complications. This is especially true for young children, the elderly, and those with a chronic medical condition.

If you do get the flu, your physician may prescribe an antiviral medication that can decrease the severity of symptoms and reduce the duration of illness. These antiviral medications work best if they are initiated within 48 hours of experiencing flu symptoms.

Currently, there is no cure for the common cold, but many OTC medications are marketed to provide symptomatic relief of both cold and flu symptoms such as sore throat, congestion, cough, and fever. Following are examples of common cough and cold medications:

Antipyretics/analgesics (for fever and body aches)

Anesthetic and antiseptic products (for pain and discomfort associated with sore throats)

Patients exhibiting signs of worsening infection such as cough or nasal secretions with colored phlegm, high fever, or swollen glands should seek medical attention immediately.

Many individuals use homeopathic or alterative remedies to prevent or provide for relief from cold and flu symptoms. Several homeopathic/alternative products for colds are available:

According to the National Institutes of Health, the following are examples of homeopathic/alternative products used to alleviate flu symptoms:

Talk to a pharmacist or doctor before taking these herbs or supplements, to ascertain appropriateness and to avoid potential drug interactions or contraindications.

Several cough and cold and flu medications are available over the counter to provide symptomatic relief. Your best defense in preventing the flu in yourself and your loved ones is to receive the annual flu vaccine. If you have never had a flu vaccine, talk to your doctor to determine what is best for you. Pharmacists can advise you on the best medications to meet your individual needs. You should inform the pharmacist of your medical and medication history to avoid potential drug interactions or contraindications. Nonprescription cough and cold medications should not be given to children under 4 years of age; pediatricians should be consulted for other treatment options.

Medline Plus (National Institutes of Health)

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease

Cough/Cold/Allergy: Cold and Flu Season

The common cold is a highly contagious acute viral infection of the upper respiratory system. In the United States, cold season typically occurs from late August through early April, but can occur at any time. The common cold is often considered to be one of the leading causes of absence from both work and school. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an estimated 22 million days are lost from school each year due to the common cold. Annually, children typically get 6 to 10 colds, while adults younger than 60 years may get 2 to 4 colds, and those older than 60 years may get 1 cold.

The severity of cold symptoms can vary from individual to individual. Colds typically last from 7 to 14 days. Cold symptoms often have a gradual onset and develop over 2 to 3 days after infection with the cold virus. You may initially experience a sore or irritated throat. If a fever is present, it tends to be low grade (less than ) and more likely to develop in infants and young children. A hacking, mucus-producing cough and slight body aches and pains are often present with the common cold. Nasal congestion and sneezing are also very common.

The common cold may be caused by more than 200 viruses, but most colds are caused by rhinoviruses. Rhinoviruses can live up to 3 hours on your skin and on surfaces and objects such as doorknobs and telephones.

There are no medical tests to diagnose the common cold. Diagnosis is commonly based on a patient’s symptoms or physical examination, if warranted.

Various preventive measures can be implemented to decrease your chance of getting a cold or transmitting the virus to others. For example:

Hand washing with soap and warm water is considered to be one of the most effective means of cold prevention, so wash your hands often and keep them away from your eyes and nose. If the cold virus is on your hands, it can easily enter through your eyes and nasal cavity.

When water isn’t available, the CDC recommends using alcoholbased hand sanitizers to disinfect your hands.

If possible, avoid being near people who have colds or when you have a cold.

Routine cleaning of environmental surfaces with disinfectants may also minimize the spread of the cold virus.

Most colds resolve with minimal treatment and without complications. If you have a cold, it is important to get rest when needed, to drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration, and to treat bothersome symptoms as needed. If symptoms worsen or do not improve, patients should immediately contact their doctor to avoid further complications. This is especially true for young children, elderly individuals, and those with chronic medical conditions.

Currently, there is no cure for the common cold, but many OTC medications are marketed to provide symptomatic relief for sore throat, congestion, cough, and fever, if present. Examples of these OTC cough and cold medications include:

In addition, several products contain anesthetic and antiseptic ingredients for treating the pain and disdiscomfort associated with sore throats. Several nonpharmacologic measures can be used to provide symptomatic relief:

If you have a sore throat, you can gargle with warm salt water, let ice chips melt in your mouth, or use throat sprays or lozenges.

For relief from nasal congestion, you can use a saline nasal spray or a vaporizer.

Many individuals may wish to use homeopathic or alterative medication for relief of cold symptoms or for cold prevention. Homeopathic/alternative medications include:

To avoid potential drug—drug interactions or drug–disease interactions if you elect to use a nonprescription cough and cold medications, be sure to inform your pharmacist of your allergy history, medical conditions, and any medications that you take. Nonprescription cough and cold medications should not be given to children younger than 4 years, and pediatricians should be consulted for other treatment options. Also, remember that routine hand washing is an effective way to minimize the risk of getting a cold.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

NIH National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine

Cough/Cold/Allergy: The Common Cold

In the United States, an estimated 18.8 million people have been diagnosed with diabetes, and another 7 million have it but have not received a diagnosis. The condition affects 8.3% of the population, and is the leading cause of blindness, kidney failure, and lower limb amputations. It is also a major cause of heart disease and stroke.

Although symptoms can vary from one individual to another, they often include the following:

Recurrent gum, skin, or bladder infections

Diabetes occurs when the body cannot properly regulate sugar, which leads to a buildup of glucose in the cells that prevents them from correctly functioning. Type 1 diabetes is caused when the pancreas does not produce insulin and glucose regulation is impaired. In type 2 diabetes, either the pancreas produces very little insulin, or the body is unable to recognize the insulin. Some common risk factors for type 2 diabetes are as follows:

A number of tests are used to diagnose diabetes, including an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and a fasting plasma glucose (FPG) test. For the OGTT, which measures the body’s ability to use glucose, patients are advised not to eat, drink, or exercise strenuously for 8 hours prior. A blood sample is collected to provide a baseline for comparing glucose levels.

For the FPG test, which measures the blood sugar level and can expose problems with insulin functioning, patients must fast overnight and then have their FPG level taken. When individuals without diabetes are tested, glucose levels rise but then fall rapidly. For those who have diabetes, the levels rise higher than normal and fail to rapidly decrease. Individuals with glucose levels between normal and diabetic are categorized as having impaired glucose tolerance. Other tests that physicians may order to monitor and diagnose diabetes include:

Several lifestyle modifications can be implemented to prevent diabetes, including:

Proper management of diabetes can slow the progression of the disease and prevent further complications, including kidney disease, eye disorders, heart disease, and stroke. Recommendations for effective management of diabetes are as follows:

Maintain appropriate foot hygiene (including washing, moisturizing, and examining for cuts and scrapes every day)

Test glucose as often as recommended by a physician

Patients who feel dizzy, sweaty, or have symptoms such as blurry vision may be experiencing hypoglycemia and should immediately ingest a source of glucose. It is critical that close family members and friends know what steps to take in the event that a patient becomes unconscious because of abnormally high or low glucose levels. Patients should also regularly visit their ophthalmologist, podiatrist, and dentist to help monitor their eyes, feet, and mouth.

Some patients with diabetes prefer to try alternative forms of medications; it is important to discuss any of these medications and therapies with a physician before trying them. Alternative therapies include:

When individuals with diabetes seek OTC treatment for other conditions, it is critical to speak to a pharmacist about which medications can help treat the condition without worsening the diabetes.

These organizations offer support services for patients with diabetes:

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases

CDC Diabetes Public Health Resource for Health Care Professionals

Diabetes Health Care: Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), once known as juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes, is an autoimmune disease usually diagnosed in children and young adults. The American Diabetes Association reports that only 5% of individuals with diabetes have this form. In T1DM, the pancreas fails to produce the hormone insulin, which is needed to convert sugar, starch, and other food into the energy the body needs.

Signs and symptoms vary from person to person, but the following are common to many individuals with T1DM:

Although the exact cause of T1DM is unknown, researchers believe that autoimmune disorders or certain genetic conditions may increase an individual’s risk for developing the disease.

If a diagnosis of diabetes is suspected or confirmed, your child will be referred to a pediatric endocrinologist who will probably order several tests.

Common tests include hemoglobin A1C, which indicates the average blood glucose level over a 2- to 3-month period; random blood glucose levels;

To date, there is no known way to prevent T1DM.

Patients with T1DM should adhere to the following management guidelines:

Check blood glucose levels at least a few times a day. Your doctor will tell you how many times to test per day.

Adhere to the prescribed medication and treatment regimen.

Wear a medical alert bracelet or necklace stating that you have diabetes.

Keep glucagon or glucose tablets on hand in cases of hypoglycemia.

Eat a balanced, healthy diet and adhere to your recommended nutrition plan.

Exercise regularly to help maintain normal blood glucose levels.

Maintain routine appointments with your doctor.

Conduct routine skin and foot examinations, and have annual eye exams.

In general, treatment for T1DM includes the following:

Taking insulin or other medications prescribed by your doctor<

Daily and frequent blood glucose monitoring

Following a suggested diabetic nutrition plan

Some people with diabetes turn to complementary and alternative medicine for treatment. Some of these therapies may be effective, whereas others can be ineffective or even harmful. Patients who use complementary and alternative medicine therapies should keep their health care providers informed and always consult their primary health care provider before using any of these types of therapy.

When individuals with diabetes seek OTC medications for other medical conditions, it is critical to speak with a pharmacist about which medications can help treat the condition without worsening it.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Diabetes Public Health Resource for Health Care Professionals

Diabetes: Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

In the United States, an estimated 76.4 million individuals (1 of 3) who are 20 years and older are considered to have high blood pressure (BP). Only around 78% of those diagnosed with the condition are seeking treatment, and of that group, just 44% have their BP under control.

High BP, also called hypertension, is often referred to as the “silent killer,” because if left untreated or uncontrolled, it can lead to strokes, heart attack, heart failure, liver failure, and an overall increased risk of death. Between 1996 and 2006, the number of deaths resulting from high BP increased by almost 50%.

The risk factors associated with high BP include:

If any of these risk factors apply to you, or if you are African American, older than 35 years, or have a family history of high BP, you may be at an increased risk for developing high BP and should consult with a doctor.

There are 3 types of BP monitors: mercury column, aneroid, and digital. Aneroid and digital monitors are most commonly used in the home.

Aneroid monitors are light, portable, and considered to be very affordable. It is important to consult with a pharmacist to make sure you know how to use these monitors and read the results properly. Many aneroid monitors come with a stethoscope attached to the cuff so that it does not have to be held in place. Some monitors have the gauge attached to the inflation bulb, which allows for easier handling.

Reading standard aneroid monitors accurately requires good eyesight, hearing, and dexterity. For those with poor vision, there are aneroid meters with large print on the gauge for easier reading. With these monitors, when the cuff is completely deflated and lying on a table, the needle should rest in the box. If the needle lies outside the box, the gauge needs to be recalibrated. In that case, contact the manufacturer of the device for instructions on recalibration or contact your physician or pharmacist.

Digital monitors are very popular because they are easy to use and can be used on the upper arm or wrist. Arm monitors are available in a variety of cuff sizes, so it is important to choose the proper cuff size to accommodate the upper arm to help obtain accurate results; pharmacists can help point you in the right direction.

Although wrist monitors are small and portable, some experts believe that they may not be as accurate as upper-arm monitors, and errors may occur in readings. The American Heart Association recommends automatic cuff-style upper-arm monitors, which provide more reliable readings than wrist monitors.

Factors to consider in selecting a home BP monitor include:

Some monitors have cuffs that inflate and deflate with the push of a button, although manual BP monitors are still available. Many monitors also have the following features:

BP monitoring is critical in controlling BP and can be easily incorporated into the daily routine. Those who need clarification on the proper use of monitors and on factors that can affect the accuracy of results, such as stress, smoking, and caffeine use, should consult with a pharmacist. It is also recommended that individuals speak to a pharmacist about the serious consequences associated with uncontrolled BP, as well as the importance of sticking to a treatment plan. The results of BP readings should be discussed with your doctor, especially if they are elevated readings. If you experience blurred vision, headaches, and dizziness, seek medical care immediately.

National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

American Society of Hypertension; Information for Professionals

National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute; Information for Professionals

Diagnostics: Blood Pressure Monitors

Carpal tunnel syndrome, caused by compression and irritation of the median nerve in the wrist, is a progressive neurologic condition that causes pain and weakness in the wrist or hand. The median nerve is responsible for both sensation and movement in the hand, particularly the thumb, index finger, and two middle fingers. Carpal tunnel syndrome affects an estimated 4 to 10 million Americans, primarily middle-aged to older individuals, and occurs 3 times more frequently in women than in men. According to the American College of Rheumatology, carpal tunnel syndrome is possibly the most common nerve disorder experienced today.

While the signs and symptoms vary from person to person, the primary symptoms associated with carpal tunnel syndrome include tingling and/or numbness in the fingers and/or hand, especially the thumb, index finger, and middle fingers. Symptoms tend to develop and worsen over time. Other signs and symptoms include the following:

“Pins and needles” sensation in the hand

Difficulty feeling and handling small objects

Occasional aching pain in the forearm between the elbow and wrist

Carpal tunnel syndrome is often due to a number of factors that cause increased pressure on the median nerve and tendons in the carpal tunnel. Risk factors associated with the development of carpal tunnel syndrome may include the following:

Fluid retention during pregnancy or menopause

Various medical conditions, such as thyroid disease, diabetes, and arthritis

Work that requires repetitive motion of the hands and wrists (eg, typing)

Debate continues about the causal relationship between carpal tunnel syndrome and repetitive motions of the hand and wrist during work or leisure activities.

If you suspect that you have carpal tunnel syndrome or if your symptoms are persistent or worsening, your doctor will review your medical history and symptoms as well as conduct a physical and neurologic exam. Other medical tests such as an x-ray and/or an electromyogram or nerve conduction study may be ordered to rule out other medical conditions.

Although no known methods exist to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome, you can reduce hand and wrist stress as well as carpal tunnel symptoms by taking the following the measures:

Take frequent breaks, and rest your hands periodically.

Relax your grip and reduce the force with which you use your hands.

Improve your posture, especially when typing on a computer.

Alternate tasks to reduce the duration of repetitive motions.

Modify your work space to reduce stress on your wrist and hands.

A number of lifestyle changes can be incorporated to help individuals successfully manage the symptoms associated with carpal tunnel syndrome:

Undergoing physical or occupational therapy

Avoiding activities that may cause stress in your hands and wrists

Treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome should be initiated soon after diagnosis. Individuals with mild carpal tunnel syndrome can ease pain or discomfort by taking breaks from activities to rest their hands, applying cold or ice packs to ease any swelling, and avoiding activities that may worsen symptoms when possible. Your doctor may advise you to use wrist splint devices for support and/or mild pain relievers such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID). In some cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery may be recommended. Your doctor will determine the best treatment for you based on your symptoms, the severity of the condition, and your medical and medication history.

Many patients with carpal tunnel syndrome rely on alternative forms of treatment, including herbal remedies and homeopathic medicine. Alternative remedies may include the following:

Patients should always check with a pharmacist or physician before taking any supplements, including herbal and homeopathic remedies, to prevent potentially harmful interactions and/or contraindications.

Most OTC products available for the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome are aimed at providing pain relief and reducing inflammation. Patients may elect to use NSAID, acetaminophen, or herbal supplements to help manage the symptoms. To prevent drug interactions or adverse reactions, it is important to discuss these products with a physician or a pharmacist before using them.

Diagnostics: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Cholesterol is a lipid, which is a waxy fat-like substance that the body needs to produce bile, some hormones, vitamin D, and cell membranes. However, elevated levels of cholesterol in your blood can accumulate on the walls of your arteries. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), elevated cholesterol levels, also known as

, is a major risk factor in the development of cardiovascular disease and stroke, which are 2 of the leading causes of death in the United States. According to the AHA, more than 98 million individuals in the United States have an elevated cholesterol level of 200 mg/dL or higher, and of those individuals, more than 34 million have cholesterol levels higher than 240 mg/dL.

Many people are unaware that they have elevated cholesterol levels because there are typically no signs or symptoms. It is important to have routine blood work to monitor your cholesterol levels, especially if you are at high risk for heart disease and have a family history of heart disease or other risk factors, such as hypertension, diabetes, and a history of smoking.

To determine your cholesterol levels and cardiovascular disease risk, your doctor will order a blood test known as a lipid panel, which provides the values of total cholesterol, lowdensity lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (“bad” cholesterol), high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (“good” cholesterol), and triglycerides. To get accurate test results, you will be required to fast for at least 12 hours before the blood test. Your doctor will also review your medical and family history to determine your cardiovascular disease risk and may order other tests as well.

The most effective way to maintain healthy cholesterol levels is to maintain a healthy and balanced diet. Other preventive/management measures include:

Establishing a routine exercise regimen (at least 30 minutes of exercise several times a week)

Avoiding foods with trans fats or that have a high saturated fat content

Decreasing or eliminating refined carbohydrate intake

Using relaxation and stress-management techniques

Maintaining a waist circumference less than 35 inches for women and less than 40 inches for men

Adhering to medication regimens if prescribed

Lifestyle modifications, such as beginning to exercise, losing weight if needed, and eating a healthy diet, are key for decreasing elevated cholesterol levels. Sometimes medications are necessary if your cholesterol remains elevated despite lifestyle modifications. The drug class known as

is one of the most popular types prescribed. Your doctor will decide which medication is best for your individual needs. Your pharmacist can counsel you on the proper use of your prescribed medication and can tell you about its potential adverse effects.

Several natural products are marketed for the promotion of cardiovascular health. According to the National Institutes of Health, common alternative therapies include:

Prior to using any of these supplements, it is important to check with your doctor or pharmacist to ascertain their appropriateness and to avoid potential drug interactions or contraindications.

A host of multivitamins are formulated to promote cardiovascular health. Individuals at risk for, or with, cardiovascular disease who seek to use OTC cardiovascular supplements or OTC drugs for treating other conditions must first consult a pharmacist before using any medication or nutritional supplement in order to prevent drug interactions or contraindications. Pharmacists should also be informed of all the medications that you are currently taking.

National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine

Diagnostics: Cholesterol

Nasal congestion, otherwise known as “stuffy nose,” occurs when nasal tissue and blood vessels in the nose swell up with excess fluid and material, causing a feeling of stuffiness. Although it is usually just an annoyance for older children and adults, the condition can be serious in infants, who might have a hard time nursing or breathing as a result.

Some of the most common indications of nasal congestion are:

Congestion can be caused by an infection, allergies, or can result from exposure to irritants such as tobacco smoke. Common triggers include:

Presence of allergens (eg, dust, pollen, pet dander)

Most of the time, nasal congestion is a symptom associated with the common cold or flu. It usually presents with other symptoms, such as sore throat, coughing, sneezing, or fever. Physicians can diagnose nasal congestion based on symptoms or by obtaining sputum cultures.

Both the cold and flu can be transmitted easily through droplets released by coughing, sneezing, or talking. To help prevent nasal congestion, patients should always try to avoid allergens and practice proper hygiene by:

Covering the mouth while sneezing or coughing

Individuals should always wash their hands with soap and warm water, or if none is available, use a hand sanitizer.

In addition to maintaining proper hygiene, patients should drink plenty of fluid, especially water, and avoid known triggers.

If an infection is suspected, a physician may prescribe antibiotics. If the congestion is due to a cold, patients should increase fluid intake and get an adequate amount of rest. Patients who develop a fever can take OTC fever reducers such as ibuprofen, naproxen sodium, and aspirin. It is important to first consult with a pharmacist about which treatment is best and how long it should be taken. If symptoms persist after treating the congestion for more than 1 or 2 weeks, patients should speak with a physician.

A variety of alternative remedies and treatments can be used to treat nasal congestion, including:

Patients should always check with a pharmacist or physician before taking any supplements, to prevent potentially harmful interactions.

Several OTC products can be used to treat nasal congestion, including decongestants that are available as nasal sprays and decongestants that can be taken orally. Both can be taken to retaken orally. Both can be taken to relieve symptoms; however, there may be restrictions on how often or how long they can be used. A pharmacist can provide advice or recommendations based on a patient’s preference and individual symptoms.

The following resources will provide patients with more information on preventing and managing nasal congestion:

National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders

Eye/Ear/Nose/Throat: Nasal Congestion

Conjunctivitis, also known as “pink eye,” is a common condition that causes inflammation or infection of the conjunctiva, which is the thin transparent tissue that lines the inner surface of the eyelid and covers the white part of the eye. This ophthalmic condition can affect one or both eyes and occurs most frequently in children.

The following signs and symptoms of conjunctivitis may be apparent in the affected eye(s):

Crusty, yellowish formation on the eyelids

Pink or red discoloration in the whites of the eye

Conjunctivitis may be classified into three main categories: infectious, allergic, and chemical/irritant. Infectious conjunctivitis is caused by a bacterial or viral infection, an allergic reaction, or exposure to an irritant such as a chemical, pollen, or smoke. Infectious conjunctivitis is very contagious. Other causes of conjunctivitis may include extended use of contact lenses, fungi, and certain diseases.

If you suspect that you have conjunctivitis, your doctor may conduct a thorough eye exam, examining the conjunctiva and surrounding tissues very closely. Your doctor will also ask about your symptoms and general health history.

Since bacterial and viral conjunctivitis are very contagious forms and can be secretions or through contact with a contaminated object, the most effective preventive measure is the practice of good hygiene, especially through frequent hand washing. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. A number of lifestyle modifications can also prevent the transmission of infectious conjunctivitis:

Wash pillowcases, sheets, washcloths, and towels in hot water.

Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently.

Change your towel and washcloth daily, and do not share them with others.

Don’t use anyone else’s personal eyecare items.

Handle and clean contact lenses properly.

Don’t wear your contacts until your eyes are better, and use a new pair after the infection is resolved.

Follow your eye doctor’s instructions on proper contact lens care.

In addition to maintaining proper hygiene, you can alleviate any discomfort caused by viral or bacterial conjunctivitis by applying warm compresses using a clean washcloth to your affected eye or eyes. For allergic conjunctivitis, avoid rubbing your eyes and use cool, not warm, cloth compresses to soothe your eye(s).

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