Simran Arora

Addicted To Nasal Sprays? Be Warned, It Could Damage Your Nose Forever

Nasal spray

In an ever-evolving world, people are always looking for something more convenient. Thanks to this never-ending search for an easier way out, even the ways of using medicine have changed. From popping pills to now using nasal sprays for decongestion, the way we deal with a cold or the flu has also changed. But just like all other aspects of life, one must know where to stop. Unsurprisingly, cases of <span>nasal spray addiction</span> have come to light, and the consequences are not pretty.

<h2>What happens when nasal sprays are used in excess?</h2>

In the UK, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has stated that excessive use of <span>nasal spray</span> can lead to ‘rebound congestion’ and other major side effects. While people were mindlessly using nasal sprays for seven days in a row, a new advisory limits use to just five days. Brits are reportedly becoming addicted to nasal sprays because of excessive use to relieve blocked noses, thereby causing damage to the tissues inside.

<h2>What are the <span rel="noindex">symptoms of overuse of nasal sprays</span>?</h2>

Decongestant sprays constrict inflamed blood vessels in the nasal passages, thereby relieving congestion. In the short term, they work well. However, if used too much, the blood vessels in the nasal passages become sensitive to ingredients like xylometazoline and oxymetazoline. These passageways also start to swell when the medication wears off. In the long run, addiction or overuse of nasal sprays can lead to the following symptoms:

<ol><li>Damage to the sensitive lining of the nose</li><li>Dependence on the spray</li><li>Crusting</li><li>Dryness in the nose</li><li>Sleep problems</li><li>Palpitations</li><li>Anxiety</li><li>Irritation</li><li>Reduced effectiveness of the spray</li></ol>Experts say that if the nose is still blocked after using a nasal spray for five days, it could be because of overuse of the product, not because of an infection. Furthermore, continued use can cause more damage later. Nasal sprays are safe when used as directed, but going overboard can lead to unpleasant symptoms.

<h2>Consequences of nasal spray addiction</h2>

<em>In an interview with Health and Me, Dr Samir Garde, Director of the Department of Pulmonology and Lung Transplant at Gleneagles Hospital, Parel, said, </em>“Many people have a habit of using nasal sprays mindlessly. So, even though they tend to provide that much-needed relief, they can take a toll on well-being. Using nasal sprays too often, particularly decongestant sprays, can do more harm than good. While they give quick relief from a blocked nose, overuse can lead to a problem called rebound congestion. This happens when the nose becomes even more blocked once the effect wears off. This can make people dependent on the spray and even cause addiction. Moreover, excessive use also dries out the nasal lining, causing irritation, burning, or even small nosebleeds.”

Some people may experience headaches or a constant feeling of stuffiness that can disturb peace of mind and interfere with daily routine. In the long run, it can damage the sensitive tissues inside the nose and reduce the spray’s effectiveness. So, use nasal sprays strictly as per a doctor’s advice. Do not overdo it. Anything done in excess can be harmful to health. Take charge of your wellbeing and follow medical advice carefully.

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In an ever-evolving world, people are always looking for something more convenient. Thanks to this never-ending search for an easier way out, even the ways of using medicine have changed. From popping pills to now using nasal sprays for decongestion, the way we deal with a cold or the flu has also changed. But just like all other aspects of life, one must know where to stop. Unsurprisingly, cases of nasal spray addiction have come to light, and the consequences are not pretty.What happens when nasal sprays are used in excess?In the UK, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has stated that excessive use of nasal spray can lead to ‘rebound congestion’ and other major side effects. While people were mindlessly using nasal sprays for seven days in a row, a new advisory limits use to just five days. Brits are reportedly becoming addicted to nasal sprays because of excessive use to relieve blocked noses, thereby causing damage to the tissues inside.What are the symptoms of overuse of nasal sprays?Decongestant sprays constrict inflamed blood vessels in the nasal passages, thereby relieving congestion. In the short term, they work well. However, if used too much, the blood vessels in the nasal passages become sensitive to ingredients like xylometazoline and oxymetazoline. These passageways also start to swell when the medication wears off. In the long run, addiction or overuse of nasal sprays can lead to the following symptoms:Damage to the sensitive lining of the noseDependence on the sprayCrustingDryness in the noseSleep problemsPalpitationsAnxietyIrritationReduced effectiveness of the sprayExperts say that if the nose is still blocked after using a nasal spray for five days, it could be because of overuse of the product, not because of an infection. Furthermore, continued use can cause more damage later. Nasal sprays are safe when used as directed, but going overboard can lead to unpleasant symptoms.Consequences of nasal spray addictionIn an interview with Health and Me, Dr Samir Garde, Director of the Department of Pulmonology and Lung Transplant at Gleneagles Hospital, Parel, said, “Many people have a habit of using nasal sprays mindlessly. So, even though they tend to provide that much-needed relief, they can take a toll on well-being. Using nasal sprays too often, particularly decongestant sprays, can do more harm than good. While they give quick relief from a blocked nose, overuse can lead to a problem called rebound congestion. This happens when the nose becomes even more blocked once the effect wears off. This can make people dependent on the spray and even cause addiction. Moreover, excessive use also dries out the nasal lining, causing irritation, burning, or even small nosebleeds.”Some people may experience headaches or a constant feeling of stuffiness that can disturb peace of mind and interfere with daily routine. In the long run, it can damage the sensitive tissues inside the nose and reduce the spray’s effectiveness. So, use nasal sprays strictly as per a doctor’s advice. Do not overdo it. Anything done in excess can be harmful to health. Take charge of your wellbeing and follow medical advice carefully.