Nasal drops – how long can they be used and why can they be harmful?
Otolaryngologist consultation
An otolaryngologist, or ENT specialist, diagnoses and treats diseases of the ears, nose, throat, head, and neck in both adults and children.
Otolaryngologist consultation
An otolaryngologist, or ENT specialist, diagnoses and treats diseases of the ears, nose, throat, head, and neck in both adults and children.
Edema-removing nasal drops are one of the most commonly used over-the-counter medications for runny and stuffy nose. As explained by the head of our clinic, Dr. Med. Rūdolfs Jānis Viksne, these remedies are really effective because they provide quick relief and improve nasal breathing. However, at the same time, they can also become a serious problem if used for longer than recommended.
Prolonged and uncontrolled use of nasal drops can contribute to the development of addiction and cause so-called drug rhinitis – chronic inflammation of the nasal mucosa. Therefore, it is especially important to adhere to the specified duration of use and choose safer alternatives in a timely manner.
How nasal drops work and for how long they can be used
The most commonly used nasal drops, or local vasoconstrictors, contain the active substances xylometazoline or oxymetazoline. These substances narrow the blood vessels of the nasal mucosa, thereby reducing the swelling caused by inflammation and allowing you to breathe more freely. At the same time, it should be remembered that nasal drops do not cure the cause of the runny nose, but only relieve the symptom – the feeling of a stuffy nose.
Most vasoconstrictor nasal drops are intended for short-term use – usually no more than three to five days. In some cases, on the advice of a doctor, the use can be extended to seven days, but prolonged use significantly increases the risk of developing adverse reactions.
Addiction and Medicinal Rhinitis – The Unseen Risk
Medicinal rhinitis is a condition in which a stuffy nose is no longer associated with a runny nose, infection or allergy, but rather with the effect of the medicine itself on the nasal mucosa. Patients usually complain of persistent nasal congestion, which improves only temporarily after using the drops. Over time, there is a need to use the drops more and more often, as well as dryness of the nasal mucosa and a burning sensation appear.
Nasal drip addiction develops gradually. Initially, they are used for acute runny nose, but after several days the nasal mucosa gets used to the drug, and its duration of action is shortened. Drops should be used more and more frequently to maintain the effect. With discontinuation, the feeling of nasal congestion becomes even more pronounced, and the patient finds himself in a vicious circle – drops provide temporary relief, but in the long term only aggravate the situation. In practice, Dr. med. Rudolfs Jānis Viksne regularly encounters patients who come with a seemingly acute runny nose, saying that it has not stopped for a month. When asked in more detail, they find that they have been using nasal drops to remove puffiness continuously throughout this time.
When nasal drops can be harmful and when to seek medical attention
Using nasal drops for longer than recommended can cause chronic nasal congestion, mucosal damage and even atrophy, persistent nasal breathing problems, as well as impaired sense of smell. In isolated cases, especially in children and patients with chronic diseases, systemic effects such as high blood pressure and heart problems may also occur.
In case of nasal congestion, safer alternatives are recommended instead of or in parallel with short-term use of nasal drops. These include sea water or saline sprays, oil-containing drops that are suitable for long-term use, saline rinsing of the nose, antihistamines in case of allergic rhinitis, as well as indoor humidification and adequate fluid intake.
If medicated rhinitis has already developed, treatment usually involves discontinuing the use of vasoconstrictor drops – gradually or more rapidly, depending on the situation. In addition, nasal moisturizers and corticosteroid nasal sprays are used. More severe cases require otolaryngologist supervision and surgical treatment.
You should definitely see a doctor if nasal congestion and pain persist for more than 10–14 days or if the condition worsens after initial improvement. Also worrying signs include severe facial pain, high body temperature, swelling around the eyelids or eyes, changes in vision, frequent nosebleeds, or severe worsening of the sense of smell. Children, pregnant women and people with chronic diseases are advised to seek medical attention already at the first serious complaints.
It is important to emphasize that it can take weeks or even months for the nasal mucosa to recover after prolonged use of the drops, so timely action and responsible use of medication is essential.
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