Nasal sprays come in two main categories, medicated or unmedicated. Medicated nasal sprays can come over-the-counter or by prescription only. Saline nasal sprays are used to provide moisture to the nasal passages and help loosen mucus or congestion. Medicated nasal sprays contain antihistamines, corticosteroids or topical decongestants. Antihistamines are used for allergies and can help block the response to the allergen. Corticosteroids or topical decongestants, are used to reduce inflammation and unblock the nasal passages. Chronic sinusitis or congestion may be relieved by using both prescription or over-the-counter nasal sprays. As with any medication, nasal sprays have the potential for side effects.
Mild Side Effects
A nasal spray that is used to reduce congestion is likely to cause an increase in drainage. This may cause sneezing, coughing, or an increase in nasal drip. These effects, while mildly uncomfortable, make up the desired response to the nasal spray. Other side effects may include nose bleeds, headache, loss of smell, loss of taste, and a burning sensation in the nose, according to RxList.com. Mild stinging may be relieved with the use of a preservative-free nasal spray, according to the University of Michigan Health System (UMICH).
More Serious Side Effects
Rebound congestion can occur when using decongestant nasal sprays. This occurs when the nasal decongestant is used for more than three or four days. Mayo Clinic suggests the congestion may be loosened but then recur after too many days of use. Thus, users may feel the need to use the product longer than is recommended when their nasal symptoms return. According to MedicalNewsToday.com, over-the-counter (OTC) nasal sprays containing Phenylephrine, Xylometazoline, and Oxymetazoline are harmful chemicals that can damage the membranes inside the nasal passages, leading to chronic nose bleeds.
Addition Misnomer
A common thought is that medicated nasal sprays can lead to addition. Mayo Clinic clarifies this misnomer. An addiction is a psychological need for something that is known to be physically, psychologically. or socially harmful. Over-the-counter nasal sprays do not contain any of these harmful, habit-forming ingredients. It is possible to develop a tolerance to the nasal spray over time. MedicalNewsToday.com has a different perspective and suggests addiction can occur. They describe it as a need to continue using the nasal spray or else resume symptoms of illness. Mayo Clinic describes this as tolerance to the nasal spray and suggests avoiding the product for two to three days and then resuming application.
