Does ibuprofen reduce nasal inflammation?

Author: Rick Stroman  |  Last update: Thursday, May 1, 2025

Any kind is fine, but for inflammation you may get more benefit from a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), or aspirin, assuming you don't experience stomach upset from these drugs.

Can ibuprofen help with nasal inflammation?

Nasal congestion is often a result of swelling in the nasal and sinus tissue caused by inflammation, not necessarily excess mucus. Therefore, it's important to treat the whole problem with a decongestant and a pain reliever, like ibuprofen.

What shrinks inflamed sinuses?

Lifestyle and home remedies
  • Rest. Rest helps the body fight infection and speed recovery.
  • Drink fluids. Keep drinking plenty of fluids.
  • Use a warm compress. A warm compress on the nose and forehead might help lessen pressure in the sinuses.
  • Keep sinuses moist. ...
  • Rinse the inside of the nose.

What pills help with nasal inflammation?

Examples of combination nasal decongestants include:
  • Advil Cold and Sinus®: Contains ibuprofen and pseudoephedrine.
  • Claritin-D®: Contains loratadine and pseudoephedrine.
  • Tylenol Sinus Severe Congestion Daytime®: Contains acetaminophen, guaifenesin and pseudoephedrine.
  • Zyrtec-D®: Contains cetirizine and pseudoephedrine.

What anti-inflammatory can I take for my nose?

Corticosteroids have powerful anti-inflammatory effects and can reduce swelling in the tissue that lines nasal passages and sinuses, making breathing easier. The anti-inflammatory effects of steroid treatment may also reduce the size of nasal polyps. Steroids can be taken by mouth or applied as a nasal spray.

Does Ibuprofen Reduce Nasal Inflammation? - Pain Medicine Network

How do I get rid of inflammation around my nose?

Here are some additional things you can try to reduce inflammation and redness:
  1. Use a humidifier at night to keep your skin from becoming too dry while you sleep.
  2. Apply a cold compress to soothe inflammation around the nose.
  3. Dab on a little hydrocortisone to reduce swelling and redness.

What is an over-the-counter nasal anti-inflammatory?

Corticosteroid (“steroid”) nasal sprays treat inflammation and swelling in the nasal passages. This swelling causes a stuffy nose and facial pain, two of the biggest symptoms of sinusitis. OTC steroid nasal sprays include Flonase (fluticasone) and Nasacort (triamcinolone).

How long does it take for nasal inflammation to go away?

If you have acute sinusitis, your symptoms likely will go away within a week to 10 days, but some people have symptoms that last up to four weeks. Chronic sinusitis symptoms last 12 weeks or more. Acute sinusitis (sinus infection) can clog your nose with mucus, make your face hurt and make you feel exhausted.

Why do I have so much inflammation in my nose?

This may be due to some medical conditions. Colds and allergies may cause too much mucus to be made or block the opening of the sinuses. A deviated nasal septum, nasal bone spur, or nasal polyps may block the opening of the sinuses. Chronic infection can cause mucosal swelling and inflammation.

Why won't my sinus inflammation go away?

An infection, growths in the sinuses, called nasal polyps, or swelling of the lining of the sinuses can cause chronic sinusitis. Symptoms might include a blocked or stuffy nose that makes it hard to breathe through the nose and pain and swelling around the eyes, cheeks, nose or forehead.

What is the strongest natural antibiotic for sinus infection?

The best home remedies for sinus infection include using essential oils like peppermint for decongestion, herbal supplements such as bromelain and quercetin for relieving symptoms, and incorporating ginger root or herbal teas for their natural antihistamine properties.

What shrinks nasal inflammation?

Nasal corticosteroids.

These nasal sprays help prevent and treat swelling. Some are available without a prescription. Examples include fluticasone (Flonase Allergy Relief, Xhance), budesonide (Rhinocort Allergy), mometasone (Nasonex 24HR Allergy) and beclomethasone (Beconase AQ, Qnasl, others).

Is Tylenol or ibuprofen better for sinus pressure?

If you have a sinus headache, reach for a bottle of ibuprofen or naproxen instead of acetaminophen. They are both anti-inflammatory drugs that can help ease the inflammation in your sinuses. A nasal decongestant can provide relief for your other symptoms. "If you use ibuprofen, it would help temporarily.

Does ibuprofen help rhinitis?

In most cases, treating non-allergic rhinitis involves managing the symptoms. This may be by using decongestant medications, anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, and or by breathing in warm, humid air. However, if the rhinitis becomes persistent, the underlying cause should be found and treated.

Does Flonase work for sinus infection?

5) Nasal steroids like Flonase can be very helpful. This medication is currently both OTC and prescription medication. Because it is an anti-inflammatory, it reduces swelling and decreases mucus production.

How to treat irritated nasal passages?

How to relieve sinus pressure and pain at home
  1. Nasal flush. Nasal irrigation tools, like Neti Pot and Navage, use a salt and water solution to flush your nasal passages. ...
  2. Over-the-counter medication. ...
  3. Stay hydrated. ...
  4. Get rest. ...
  5. Breathe steam. ...
  6. Add humidity. ...
  7. Hot and cold compress. ...
  8. Spicy food.

Can ibuprofen cure sinusitis?

Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol), aspirin, or ibuprofen (Advil), can help with the pain and pressure that comes with sinusitis. However, studies show some patients ultimately experience worsened symptoms and recurrent infections after taking NSAIDs for sinus pain.

Does nasal spray get rid of inflammation?

When sprayed into the nose, steroids reduce inflammation (swelling). This can help relieve symptoms such as sneezing and a runny or blocked nose. It can also help to reduce the size of any swellings (such as polyps in your nose.

How to beat a sinus infection without antibiotics?

How to feel better
  1. Put a warm compress over the nose and forehead to help relieve sinus pressure.
  2. Use a decongestant or saline nasal spray.
  3. Breathe in steam from a bowl of hot water or shower.
  4. Ask your healthcare provider about over-the-counter medicines that can help you feel better.

How to tell if sinus infection has spread to the brain?

Signs and symptoms that may indicate a sinus infection has spread to the brain may include the following:
  1. severe headache.
  2. fever.
  3. flu-like symptoms.
  4. nausea or vomiting.
  5. vision changes, such as double vision.
  6. neck stiffness.
  7. sensitivity to bright light.
  8. change in mental status.

Does nasal rinse help with inflammation?

Results: Nasal saline irrigation has often been used as both a solo and an adjunctive treatment in sinonasal diseases, including allergic rhinitis and chronic rhinosinusitis. Nasal saline irrigation has contributed to a reduction of inflammation as well as relief of nasal symptoms.

How do you reduce nasal inflammation from allergies?

Nasal corticosteroid sprays are the most effective treatment for allergic rhinitis. They work best when used nonstop, but they can also be helpful when used for shorter periods of time. They can even help when used intermittently. Corticosteroid sprays are generally safe for children and adults.

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