Alcohol is one of the most widely used drugs in the world. Many people consume alcoholic beverages for recreational purposes, but some also believe that alcohol can provide medicinal effects. One common claim is that drinking alcohol can help clear nasal congestion, essentially acting as a decongestant. This belief has become prevalent enough that many people routinely drink alcoholic beverages when they have a cold or sinus congestion in hopes of getting relief for their symptoms. However, the evidence on whether alcohol truly acts as an effective nasal decongestant is mixed.
What causes nasal congestion?
Nasal congestion occurs when the nasal passages and sinus cavities become inflamed or swollen. This inflammation narrows the nasal passages, restricting airflow and causing that feeling of a “stuffy nose.” Nasal congestion can be caused by:
- The common cold
- Allergies
- Sinusitis
- Respiratory infections like the flu
- Irritants like smoke or air pollution
- Structural problems in the nose
- Medication side effects
During inflammation, the blood vessels in the nasal passages dilate and become leaky, resulting in fluid leakage and swelling of the nasal tissues. The inflamed tissues physically obstruct airflow through the nose, leading to that congested feeling.
How do decongestants work?
Nasal decongestants are medications formulated to provide temporary relief for nasal congestion. They work by constricting the blood vessels in the nasal passages, which reduces fluid leakage and tissue swelling. This opens up the nasal airway and allows for easier breathing.
Common active ingredients in oral and nasal decongestant products include:
- Pseudoephedrine
- Phenylephrine
- Oxymetazoline
- Xylometazoline
These compounds are sympathomimetic drugs, meaning they mimic the effects of the sympathetic nervous system. By stimulating certain receptors, they trigger constriction of the blood vessels in the nasal passages and sinuses.
However, decongestants also come with side effects like increased blood pressure and heart rate. They are only intended for short-term use. Chronic use can actually worsen rebound congestion.
Does alcohol act as a nasal decongestant?
There are a few ways that alcohol could theoretically act as a nasal decongestant:
Blood vessel constriction
Alcohol causes generalized vasodilation (widening of blood vessels) when consumed in large amounts. However, some research suggests that it may transiently cause constriction of nasal blood vessels when applied topically via nasal sprays. The constriction could potentially reduce nasal congestion.
Sedation
Alcohol has central nervous system depressant effects. By reducing activity in the brain and nerves, alcohol can provide a strong sedating effect. This sedation may subjectively make nasal congestion seem less bothersome.
Drying effect
Nasal secretions contribute to congestion by blocking airflow. Alcohol is known to have a diuretic effect, causing dehydration and reduced secretions. This could potentially counteract nasal secretions and open up nasal passages.
Inflammation reduction
Some research indicates that alcohol may have anti-inflammatory effects at lower doses. By reducing inflammation, alcohol could theoretically diminish nasal swelling and obstruction.
Research evidence on alcohol and nasal congestion
Given the theoretical basis for alcohol having decongestant effects, researchers have directly studied whether consuming alcoholic beverages actually helps relieve nasal congestion in humans. Here is a summary of the key scientific studies:
Positive effects seen in some studies
- A study in 2000 found that drinking beer significantly improved nasal airflow in patients with rhinitis. The effect occurred within 15 minutes and was equivalent to nasal decongestant sprays.
- Another 2000 study looked at wine consumption in patients with rhinitis. Both red and white wine improved subjective congestion and nasal airflow within 20 minutes.
- A 2013 study found that nasal decongestion scores improved after drinking beer, wine, or spirits in patients with upper respiratory tract infections.
Other studies show no objective improvement
- A 1997 study found no change in nasal airway resistance after consumption of whiskey in healthy subjects.
- A 2003 study found that vodka shots caused subjective decongestant effects, but no objective changes in nasal airflow.
- A 2016 study showed nasal sprays with 50% ethanol had no decongestant activity in patients with rhinitis.
Alcohol likely has minimal decongestant effects
Most well-controlled trials indicate that alcohol does not objectively improve nasal congestion or airflow. The subjective decongestant effects that some people perceive may be related more to general sedation and relaxation, rather than true medical decongestion. Overall, evidence suggests alcohol has minimal, transient decongestant effects in some people, but it is likely not an effective or reliable nasal decongestant.
Other effects of alcohol on colds and congestion
While alcohol may not be very effective at relieving congestion, it does have other effects on colds and respiratory infections:
- Impaired immunity: Alcohol suppresses the immune system, which could prolong respiratory infections.
- Disrupted sleep: Alcohol can fragment sleep patterns, preventing restorative sleep needed to recover from illness.
- Dehydration: Alcohol’s diuretic effect can contribute to dehydration and thickened mucus.
- Dilated blood vessels: Vasodilation from alcohol may worsen congestion once the alcohol wears off.
These factors can potentially make colds worse or slow recovery time. The risks may outweigh any minor decongestant benefits.
Better alternatives for congestion relief
While periodic drinking doesn’t cause major harm for most people, those looking to relieve nasal congestion are better off using more effective remedies:
- Oral decongestants like pseudoephedrine
- Nasal sprays with oxymetazoline or xylometazoline
- Saline irrigation with saltwater to thin out mucus
- Steam inhalation to moisten nasal passages
- Neti pot irrigation to flush out mucus
- Staying well hydrated
- Using a humidifier
- Getting plenty of rest
These methods all have a more direct decongestant action without the unnecessary health risks of heavy alcohol consumption.
Key points summary
- Alcohol may transiently constrict nasal blood vessels, but has minimal decongestant effects for most people.
- Subjective decongestant sensations from alcohol likely relate to sedation rather than true medical decongestion.
- Well-controlled studies show alcohol does not objectively improve nasal congestion or airflow.
- Alcohol can impair immunity, sleep, and hydration, potentially prolonging respiratory infections.
- More effective and safer alternatives exist for relieving nasal congestion.
Conclusion
While many people firmly believe that alcoholic drinks can help clear up nasal congestion, the scientific evidence does not strongly support this notion. The decongestant effects of alcohol are minor at best, and likely rely on its sedative properties rather than true medical decongestion. Given the downsides of alcohol on immunity and illness recovery, those looking to relieve nasal congestion are better served using more reliable methods. Oral or nasal decongestants, hydration, steam, and nasal irrigation tend to be the most effective scientifically-backed options. Ultimately, alcohol should be avoided as a decongestant due to its lack of efficacy and potential to worsen respiratory infections.