Decongestants and antihistamines to stop snoring

What about over-the-counter medications?

If you can’t breathe, you struggle to breathe. Oxygen is essential for all bodily functions. Difficulty breathing during sleep causes snoring. Over-the-counter and prescription decongestants or antihistamines help you breathe easier to stop snoring.

Decongestants to stop snoring:

Congestion means you have a stuffy nose. This can clog your ears, cause a sore throat, and snoring in your sleep. Congestion can occur when you have allergies or other breathing problems. Decongestants offer quick and temporary relief from nasal and sinus congestion. Talk to your doctor about over-the-counter and prescription decongestants.

Decongestants can be administered orally or as a nasal spray. You may choose to take a decongestant pill or capsule with a glass of water. Oral decongestants include over-the-counter Claritin-D. Nasal sprays like over-the-counter Afrin provide instant relief from nasal congestion. Simply spray the nasal spray into each nostril according to the instructions to breathe better immediately. Nasal decongestants are usually not used for more than a week. Possible side effects of decongestants include anxiety, irregular heartbeat, insomnia, dizziness, headache, tremors, and increased blood pressure. If you experience any side effects, contact your doctor immediately.

Antihistamines to stop snoring:

Antihistamines seem like decongestants because they are given in the same way. Antihistamines are administered orally and in nasal sprays. However, antihistamines work differently than decongestants. Histamine is the inflammatory chemical released by your immune system when you have an allergic reaction. Antihistamines block histamine to minimize allergy symptoms.

Antihistamines relieve congestion, shortness of breath, and related snoring. Antihistamines are available over the counter and by prescription. Talk about antihistamines with your doctors before taking them. Examples of antihistamines include Zyrtec, Tavist, Allegra, and Astelin. Possible side effects of antihistamines include fatigue, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, sore throat, and nosebleeds. Taking decongestants or antihistamines (don’t take both at the same time) can ease congestion to help you stop snoring.