Decongestants are prescribed to relieve symptoms associated with a variety of conditions, including:

• Allergic rhinitis (hay fever). Inflammation of the mucous membrane that lines the nose due to an allergic reaction. Decongestants treat the runny nose and congestion that are among the most common symptoms of allergic rhinitis.

  

• Non-allergic rhinitis. Inflammation of the mucous membrane that lines the nose. Though caused by viruses rather than contact with allergens, this condition has many of the same symptoms associated with allergic rhinitis.
  
  
• Allergic conjunctivitis. Inflammation of the tissues inside the lining of the eyelid can often be reduced with the use of decongestants (usually administered through eye drops).
  

  

• Sinusitis. Inflammation of the lining of the sinus cavity in the face. It often leads to nasal congestion and a runny nose. Decongestants help reduce swelling of the mucous membrane in the nose and decrease mucus production.
  

  

• Snoring. The nasal passageway often becomes obstructed with mucus during sleep, causing snoring to occur. Decongestants can help open up the nasal passageway and temporarily reduce snoring.
  
  
• Bacterial infection. Decongestants may be prescribed to patients with bacterial infections, such as ear infections (bacterial infection of the middle ear and eardrum). Though these conditions require antibiotics to fight infection, symptoms can sometimes be treated with a decongestant before the antibiotics take full effect. Decongestants work as an adjunct, removing the favorable environment for the infection.
  
  
• Viral infections (e.g., cold, flu). Decongestants may be used in combination with analgesics (pain relievers) or cough suppressants to help relieve symptoms such as a stuffy nose and cough.