Allergic rhinitis is an allergy of the nose characterized by sneezing, itching, running nose and congestion. Corticosteroid sprays, commonly called steroids, form the mainstay of treatment. Steroids act by decreasing the inflammation from an allergic reaction. They reduce all the above symptoms.
Benefits
Steroids given in the form of nasal sprays are safe to use. According to the University of Michigan, they are the most potent medications available for treating allergic rhinitis. They do not have the range of systemic side effects seen with oral steroids. They are to be used long-term to have an effect.
Prevention/Solution
Steroid nasal sprays are best used as a preventive measure for controlling nasal allergy. They are sprayed once or twice daily in the nose, prior to the onset of allergic symptoms.
Considerations
Nasal steroids are the treatment of choice for severe allergic rhinitis and more effective than antihistamines for congestion, according to the National Institutes of Health. They can be used alone or in combination with antihistamines. They include medication like fluticasone, mometasone and budesonide. A short course of oral steroids can be given for very severe nasal allergy with a totally blocked nose.
Expert Insight
Effects on growth in children have been seen only in long-term use of budesonide in higher doses. The newer sprays like mometasone do not affect the growth, the American Academy of Pediatrics says, and are safe to use in children.
Side Effects
Side effects seen with steroid pills like weight gain, cataracts, joint problems, etc. are extremely rare with nasal steroids, the Michigan Sinus Center reports. They work on in the nose and are minimally absorbed by the rest of the body. Some patients have burning, sneezing, bloody discharge and irritation in the nose after administration.
