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What Are Decongestants?

en español

Anticongestivos

Decongestants

Say: dee-kun-JES-tents

Decongestants are medicines that keep your nose from being stuffy. When you have a cold, your nose gets a little swollen inside and can fill up with mucus (snot). Decongestants stop your nose from becoming swollen so it doesn't feel as plugged up.

A KidsHealth Education Partner Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.

Images sourced by The Nemours Foundation and Getty Images.