Nasal congestion is an extremely unpleasant condition that significantly disrupts daily life. When breathing becomes a struggle, the ability to attain adequate sleep, rest, focus on studies, and perform at work becomes compromised. As a result, it’s no surprise that at the earliest indication of a runny nose, we rush to the pharmacy, acquiring some nasal spray to swiftly attain the relief we seek.
However, selecting the right spray and understanding its suitability for daily use requires careful consideration. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll navigate the array of nasal sprays available to empower you with the knowledge needed to make an informed choice.
Causes of Nasal Congestion
Swelling of the mucous membrane, which makes nasal breathing difficult, is the essence of this condition. In cases of rhinitis or sinusitis, the cause of nasal congestion is clear and general remedies such as sprays or drops like Sudafed, Drixine, or Otrivin can provide relief. As the underlying condition is addressed, the swelling subsides, making breathing easier. However, if congestion arises from an underlying cause, you must identify it first for the proper treatment. It could be:
- Nasopharyngitis (inflammation of the nasal passages);
- Adenoiditis (inflammation of the nasopharyngeal tonsils);
- Allergies;
- Polyps in the nasal cavity;
- Curvature of the nasal septum;
- Withdrawal syndrome of decongestants;
- Inhalation of dry air;
- Ingress of a foreign body into the nasal passage.
To make an accurate diagnosis, it is necessary to consult a doctor.
Sprays vs. drops
Nasal sprays are a highly effective solution with several advantages over drops.
Accurate Dosage
Sprays deliver the medication with precise dosing, minimising the risk of overdose. Estimating 2-3 drops can lead to improper administration, potentially causing complications. Sprays simplify this process as the instructions provide either the number of sprays or the duration of irrigation in seconds, reducing the chance of error.
Enhanced Absorption
Sprays disperse the medication finely, ensuring delivery to even the most remote parts of the nasal cavity. Drops, on the other hand, can often transit through the nose and flow down the throat, causing irritation.
Convenience
Sprays are more user-friendly. It’s worth noting that they are not recommended for infants under one year old due to the potential for reflexive laryngeal spasms triggered by aerosol medications, which could lead to breathing difficulties or complete cessation.
Choosing the Best Spray for Nasal Congestion
Numerous over-the-counter nasal sprays are available at pharmacies, each with distinct compositions and purposes. How does one choose? Here is the list of all options and their properties.
Homoeopathic Nasal Sprays
Homoeopathy represents an alternative approach to therapy, grounded in a straightforward principle: employing minute doses of substances that, in standard quantities, would not promote healing but rather induce symptoms of the ailment.
It’s important to highlight that all sprays adhering to this methodology undergo rigorous testing on healthy volunteers. These volunteers receive a substantial dose of the substance, allowing specialists to meticulously study its mechanisms of action. This research forms the foundation for the development of the corresponding medication.
Such sprays find application in cases of infectious or allergic rhinitis. While homoeopathic medications have garnered scepticism from many medical practitioners, it’s noteworthy that numerous patients have reported positive outcomes from this therapeutic approach. The debate surrounding this topic remains robust, and the ultimate decision, typically, is arrived at on an individual basis.
Antiviral Nasal Sprays
Antiviral sprays commonly contain interferon, a substance the body produces to combat viruses. During times of weakened immunity or viral onslaughts like seasonal colds, an antiviral spray can inhibit virus replication in the nasal cavity, curbing their spread. Early use upon detecting cold symptoms is advised, as the nose serves as an initial hotspot for infection.
Nasal Vasoconstrictor Sprays
Undoubtedly, this stands out as one of the most favoured choices among nasal sprays, and for good reason. It’s highly effective, providing prompt relief from nasal congestion.
However, these medications are not without their complexities. It’s crucial to grasp their limitations: they do not facilitate actual healing. Let this be clear – these sprays alleviate congestion by constricting blood vessels within the nasal cavity, making breathing easier, but only temporarily. They do not offer a path to recovery. Moreover, there’s a second concern: prolonged use beyond 3-5 days carries a significant risk – the high risk of ending up with a rebound effect, potentially leading to, ironically, a more pronounced runny nose – a state now exacerbated by medication.
Antibacterial Nasal Sprays
True to its name, this variant of nasal spray encompasses a wide-ranging antibiotic. Such a remedy finds its prescription primarily for a cold complicated by a bacterial infection. It’s important to note that these sprays should only be used under a doctor’s supervision. Self-medication won’t provide relief or even may cause complications.
Firstly, in cases of Acute Respiratory Viral Infections, such a remedy proves ineffectual as antibiotics lack efficacy against viruses. Secondly, the unregulated and indiscriminate use of these medications fosters bacterial mutations and the emergence of persistent resistance, thereby conferring resilience against the very medications intended to combat them.
Saline Nasal Sprays
Dating back to the era of Hippocrates, the practice of washing the nasal cavity with sea water has endured through time. While the composition and advantages of seawater were not fully comprehended then, its efficacy was evident. Today, we have the privilege of accessing specialised saline sprays that offer a host of valuable attributes.
The process involves a gentle stream of natural salted seawater that serves a dual purpose. Firstly, it mechanically purges the nasal cavity of debris, mucus, viruses, bacteria, and allergens. This cleansing action not only averts inflammation from spreading to the paranasal sinuses and middle ear but also primes the nasal lining for subsequent drug administration. Secondly, seawater carries a rich assortment of trace elements, including magnesium, zinc, selenium, and others, to bolster local immunity, empowering the body’s innate ability to combat viral and bacterial infections.
Hormonal Nasal Sprays
Hormones wield the capability to obstruct primary avenues fostering inflammation, including allergic responses. They prove particularly invaluable in tackling severe conditions such as rhinitis and adenoiditis.
Hormonal sprays exhibit a more favourable side effect profile compared to systemic medications. Nevertheless, they can cause adverse reactions. Certain individuals report episodes of mucosal irritation and nosebleeds. In more severe scenarios, there exists the potential for perforation, signifying the formation of a hole within the septum.
Combination Nasal Sprays
These sprays combine multiple medications, such as hormones and antibiotics, to tackle multiple aspects of congestion simultaneously. For instance, they may reduce swelling and address inflammation effectively without inducing dryness.
Proper Use of Nasal Spray
When using any nasal spray, adhere to these guidelines:
- Clear nasal passages before applying medicinal sprays (excluding seawater-based products).
- Seal one nostril by gently pressing it with your finger.
- Place your thumb on the spray can’s base and insert the tip half a centimetre into the unobstructed nostril.
- Inhale when you press the spray’s piston to ensure medication introduction coincides with inhalation.
- Refrain from sneezing or blowing your nose for 10 minutes to facilitate absorption.
Remember that nasal sprays are not universal remedies. Each type addresses specific conditions, from vasoconstrictors providing temporary relief to antiviral sprays curbing viral replication. While self-care is empowering, seeking professional medical guidance, especially for prolonged or severe congestion, ensures a comprehensive and sustainable approach to nasal health.