Decongestant Use Varies by Facial Pain Type
October 7, 2025
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3 min
A recent study led by Dr. Noah G. Sattah from Duke University assessed the effectiveness of over-the-counter (OTC) medications in providing relief from chronic midfacial pain among 251 adults diagnosed with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and nonrhinogenic facial pain (NRFP). Results indicated that 49% of NRFP patients reported symptom relief from decongestants compared to 31% of CRS patients. The study highlights differences in medication efficacy based on the underlying condition, emphasizing the need for physicians to evaluate self-treatment habits in managing such conditions.
1. Study assessed OTC medication effectiveness for facial pain. 2. 49% relief in NRFP patients from decongestants. 3. 31% relief in CRS patients from decongestants. 4. Conducted at a tertiary academic rhinology clinic. 5. 251 adults surveyed, mean age 50. 6. Self-reported data may have biases. 7. Results indicate need for tailored assessment in chronic facial pain treatment.
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