Sudafed for congestion and headache relief

Sudafed products may contain a decongestant that narrows swollen blood vessels in the nose. Some versions also contain a pain reliever, so checking the active ingredients prevents accidental duplication with another medicine. Congestion and headache can occur with a common cold, [Allergic Rhinitis](/conditions/allergic-rhinitis/), [Chronic Sinusitis](/conditions/chronic-sinusitis/) or [Common Cold](/conditions/common-cold/). Headache can also accompany [Dehydration](/conditions/dehydration/), heat illness or an infection; the medicine does not treat every underlying cause.

Read the package directions and use only the recommended amount. Ask a pharmacist before taking it if you have high blood pressure, heart disease, glaucoma, thyroid disease, prostate symptoms, are pregnant or take regular medicines. Avoid combining products with the same decongestant or pain-relief ingredient. Rest, drink fluids and consider saline nasal rinsing if suitable. Persistent facial pain, fever or worsening symptoms deserve clinical review rather than repeated self-treatment.

Seek urgent care for a sudden severe headache, weakness, confusion, fainting, stiff neck, trouble breathing, chest pain, vision change or repeated vomiting. Get prompt medical advice for a headache after a head injury, a new headache during pregnancy, or symptoms with a rash or marked dehydration. In regions where mosquito-borne illness occurs, fever with severe headache or bleeding needs assessment, including consideration of [Dengue Fever](/conditions/dengue-fever/).

Which ingredient suits my symptoms? Could my medicines interact with it? How long should I self-treat? What symptoms would mean I need examination or testing?