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

• Viral infections (e.g., colds, the 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.
  

  

• Bacterial infection. Decongestants may be prescribed to patients with bacterial infections, such as certain types of ear infections that involve a bacterial infection of the middle ear or eardrum. Although these conditions may require antibiotics to fight infection, symptoms can sometimes be treated with a decongestant.
  
  
• Allergic rhinitis (hay fever). Inflammation of the mucous membrane that lines the nose caused by 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 (eye allergies). Inflammation of 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 cavities in the face often leads to nasal congestion and a runny nose. Decongestants help reduce swelling of the mucous membrane lining 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.