Spectrum: Local Antimicrobial Stewardship, for Prisma Health-Midlands

Symptomatic Treatment

Treatment Options

Nasal saline irrigation may provide relief with low risk of adverse effects

Analgesics/antipyretics may improve symptoms of pain and fever

For example:

  • Acetaminophen

  • NSAIDs

Intranasal steroids may improve symptoms of facial pain and nasal congestion

For example:

  • Fluticasone

Oral antihistamines may improve symptoms of excessive secretions and sneezing

For example:

  • Diphenhydramine

  • Cetirizine

Oral decongestants may improve nasal congestion
  • Should be used for <5 days and in the absence of co-morbidities, such as uncontrolled hypertension or anxiety

For example:

  • Pseudoephedrine

Topical decongestants may improve nasal congestion
  • Use should not exceed 3-5 days to prevent rebound congestion

For example:

  • Oxymetazoline

  • Tetrahydrazoline