Beat Nasal Spray Addiction - It's Easy When You Know How

When you become dependent on pharmaceutical decongestant nasal sprays it is termed nasal spray addiction or rhinitis medicamentosa.

Pharmaceutical nasal sprays containing topical vaconstrictors such as oxymetazoline and xylometazoline temporarily provide nasal congestion relief by shrinking the blood vessels in your nose. However if these are used long term (which the manufacturers do not recommend) they cause rebound congestion. This is congestion that is worse than before you used the nasal spray and can be relieved by using it once more.

Since the lining of the sinus passages is delicate, it can become damaged forever.

The symptoms include but are not limited to;- blocked nasal passages and breathing difficulties, partial or total loss of sense of smell, problems sleeping, irritability, anxiety and nervousness, constant nose bleeds, perforated septum, increased heart rate, dry/crusty sinus passages.

Since a sinus infection or sinus allergies may have been the initial reason for using the decongestant nasal spray, once the nasal spray addiction has been effectively treated the underlying condition may also have to be dealt with.

Go 'Cold turkey' - Stop using the decongestant nasal spray. The rebound congestion can last from four days onwards and as with all cold turkey methods it is very difficult.

Stop one nostril at a time - By discontinuing use one nostril at a time you can deal with the negative symptoms of the rebound congestion while still maintaning some degree of breathing.

Gradually reduce the potency - The offending nasal spray can be diluted with a saline solution (your own or purchased) and therefore it's effect reduced. Provided this is done gradually your sinuses may not rebound and for some people this method works a treat.

Natural nasal sprays - Natural nasal sprays such as SinuSoothe, Sinus Buster and Sinol are Doctor recommended and can be used to replace the offending decongestant nasal spray. They relieve nasal congestion, inflammation, pain, headaches etc. and can be used regularly on a long term basis. They have no side effects, are non-addictive and don't cause rebound congestion. Since the active ingredients improve blood flow and regenerate cell production they can help heal any damaged nasal tissue. They can also treat any underlying bacterial/fungal infections and allergies that may have caused the initial sinus condition.

Saline nasal sprays - These have helped some nasal spray addicts and are particularly useful for diluting the offending decongestant nasal spray. Used on their own they can moisturize the nasal linings and provide some relief from nasal congestion, however if your nasal spray addiction is severe they will probably be ineffective. Worth a try though.

Sinus irrigation - An isotonic or hypertonic solution is used to flush out the sinuses. A neti pot or syringe type device is used and this can provide relief from inflammation and nasal congestion. This treatment has been known to help some nasal spray addicts.

Anti-inflammatories (natural) - By reducing inflammation you may adequately relieve the symptoms of nasal spray addiction. Ginger, turmeric and omega oils are particularly effective and can be used instead of the pharmaceutical type. They usually do not cause side effects.

It is always advisable to consult a physician before using any new treatment.