Sinus Problem

[Barsel]

For a few days now I seem to have blocked sinuses which makes me feel headachy and tired.
I know that nasal sprays are probably the way to go, but I can't stand spraying something up my nose.
Are there any over the counter tablets I can take that will make me feel better? TIA.

[gingejbee]

Cheapest widely available probably is Boots Decongestant Tablets (active ingredient is Pseudoephedrine hydrochloride).
However, check the "do not take if" list!

[Teapots1]

Smear some Vick vapoRub on chest and neck at bedtime

[Sqad]

I am not a fan of nasal decongestants taken by mouth, BUT if you are sure that is a blocked sinus then Sudafed would seem to fit your bill.

[237SJ]

I use Sudafed or Boots own brand (not the ones with added extras such as paracetamol etc) Nasal sprays are OK for emergencies but you shouldn`t use them for very long.

[Mamyalynne]

Be sure to check, I cannot take anything with Pseudoephedrine due to Glaucoma for example.

[gingejbee]

Yes, and Boots own-brand is about half the price of Sudafed...for what is, essentially, the same thing.

[pastafreak]

You could also try one of the Sterimar saline products. No chemicals...but they are sprays.

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[pastafreak]

Not sure why the link came up like that...

[pastafreak]

It's Sterimar Congestion Relief Spray on Amazon.

[Barsel]

Not sure if Boots is open at the moment buy I have a Tesco C&C for tomorrow so will see what they have that contains (Pseudoephedrine hydrochloride) as suggested I'll check the 'don't take if' contents.

[anneasquith]

My advice ( though not a dr. ) I would use menthol inhalations.

[pat2604]

I would recommend Sterimar too. It's a saline spray with no drugs involved.

[Barsel]

Can't do sprays Pasta or anything that goes in or up the nose.
Dreaded having to go for a PCR test last week because of having to put that stick in my nose.
Whenever I've been in hospital and had to have that oxygen thing in my nose, it was a battle with me and the nurses of me pulling it out and them putting it back.
I have bought sprays before, but one spray and that's it, so a waste of money really.

[pastafreak]

I'm not fond of sprays either...but if it's chemical free, and WORKS...I'll use it.

[Barsel]

Tesco have their own tablets that contain Phenylephrine hydrochloride.
Would I be able to take that with paracetamol?

[Teapots1]

Squad said Sudafed. I know you said you don't like spraying up, but eh oh it works and hits the spot right away. I used it last year brilliant stuff!!

[gingejbee]

Yes, both OK with paracetamol.

[Barsel]

I see that Sudafed contain the same ingredient as the Tesco ones but contain Paracetamol, so it's a toss up between the 2.
Thanks for all your advice. x

[Ringlet]

You have my very best sympathy, Barsel, because I know from experience that sinus pain is miserable.
I find that nasal sprays don't really help much as they tackle the problem only in the lower reaches of the respiratory (nasal) passages when in actual fact the problem lies higher up in the sinus passages of the face and frontal region.
I am a firm believer in oral remedies to relieve the congestion and build up that causes the pain and discomfort but the only oral remedy that works for me is antibiotic (specifically amoxicillan).
However, antibiotics take a while to work and you need some relief straight away.
You ask for "over the counter" remedies.
My years of suffering with sinus problems has shown me that few "over the counter" remedies actually make any difference. There is no "quick fix"
As I mention, you need a lengthy course of antibiotic to deal with the infection that is causing the impaction in your sinus cavities. Amoxicillan is the most likely to be prescribed by your GP if you are in the UK.
Also for short term comfort an oral anti-congestant such as Sudafed could make you feel more comfortable until the antibiotics kick in.
Paracetemol in the form of Paramol or Co-Codamol may help with the pain and also help you to sleep.
You have my very best wishes

[Barsel]

Thanks Ringlet. I know that antibiotics are the way to go, but not sure when the GP's surgery is open and I would like to try over the counter first. I will get the Tesco tablets and take with paracetamol and see how things go, and if it doesn't get better, I might hopefully be able to get something from the GP.