Treatment of Catarrh
Treatment of catarrh is aimed at reducing inflammation, clearing mucus, and addressing the underlying cause. The right approach depends on whether catarrh is acute, chronic, allergy-related, or linked to sinus or structural issues. Often, a combination of remedies provides the best results.
1. Home Remedies and Self-Care
For mild or short-term catarrh, simple measures can be very effective:
- Steam inhalation with menthol or eucalyptus helps loosen mucus and soothe nasal tissues
- Saline nasal sprays rinse the nasal passages and reduce congestion
- Hydration keeps mucus thin and easier to clear
- Elevating the head during sleep may reduce postnasal drip
Avoiding triggers like smoke, allergens, and pollution is also crucial, particularly for those with chronic symptoms.
2. Over-the-Counter Medications
- Decongestant sprays or tablets (e.g., oxymetazoline) shrink swollen blood vessels in the nose, providing quick relief. However, you should only use them for a few days, as prolonged use can cause rebound congestion. This means symptoms can come back even more intensely after stopping the medication — a condition known as rebound congestion
- Antihistamines: Helpful for allergy-driven catarrh — second-generation options like cetirizine or loratadine cause less drowsiness
- Pain relievers: Ibuprofen or paracetamol relieve headache and facial pain linked to sinus pressure
3. Prescription Treatments | Treatment of Catarrh
In more stubborn or chronic cases, doctors may prescribe:
- Corticosteroid nasal sprays (e.g. fluticasone or mometasone): Reduce long-term inflammation
- Doctors prescribe antibiotics only when they confirm a bacterial infection
- Leukotriene receptor antagonists: Sometimes prescribed for allergy-related catarrh alongside antihistamines
4. Long-Term Solutions
If structural issues are to blame — such as a deviated septum or nasal polyps — surgical correction may be considered. Procedures like septoplasty or endoscopic sinus surgery can improve drainage and reduce mucus build-up.
5. Alternative Therapies
Some find relief from herbal remedies, acupuncture, or essential oils, although evidence is limited. These may be used alongside conventional treatment, with medical supervision.
Treatment of Catarrh
Treatment of catarrh should be personalised. For recurring symptoms, a long-term management plan — possibly involving an allergist or ENT specialist — can make a significant difference in comfort and quality of life.
[Next: Complications and Recovery from Catarrh →]
