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For The Past Fifteen Years, I’ve Had Periods Of Dependency
Question: For the past fifteen years, I’ve had periods of dependency on Afrin or other OTC nasal spray decongestants. Why is it so hard to come off of these sprays, even when I don’t have an acute URI? What can I do to come off of them successfully?
Thank you!
Thank you!
Brief Answer:
You have developed Rhinitis Medicamentosa...
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thanks for posting the query
Injudicious use of nasal decongestants can lead to rebound nasal congestion on discontinuing the spray, a condition known as Rhinitis Medicamentosa.
To get over this situation we need to start using a combination of medications such as Intranasal Steroid Spray, Isotonic Saline Nasal Spray and Oral Corticosteroids. Following which, the nasal congestion gets better and the medications can be gradually weaned off.
Hence, refrain using OTC nasal decongestant sprays. Wish you good health.
Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon
You have developed Rhinitis Medicamentosa...
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thanks for posting the query
Injudicious use of nasal decongestants can lead to rebound nasal congestion on discontinuing the spray, a condition known as Rhinitis Medicamentosa.
To get over this situation we need to start using a combination of medications such as Intranasal Steroid Spray, Isotonic Saline Nasal Spray and Oral Corticosteroids. Following which, the nasal congestion gets better and the medications can be gradually weaned off.
Hence, refrain using OTC nasal decongestant sprays. Wish you good health.
Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thank you. Are shy of these medications available OTC in US or UK?
Brief Answer:
Saline and Intranasal Steroids may be available OTC
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Welcome back
The intranasal corticosteroid spray and saline nasal spray may be available over-the-counter. But, I would still insist you to consult a good ENT specialist and get yourself examined. Also you would require an x-ray of the paranasal sinuses to look for any polypoidal changes or chronic sinusitis, depending upon which the medications can be administered.
I would not advise you to take these medicines by yourself, because, oral corticosteroids can harm your body if not taken under the Doctor’s supervision. We do care for you hence please do not attempt to take this medicines by yourself.
I pray God to give you good health.
Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon
Saline and Intranasal Steroids may be available OTC
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Welcome back
The intranasal corticosteroid spray and saline nasal spray may be available over-the-counter. But, I would still insist you to consult a good ENT specialist and get yourself examined. Also you would require an x-ray of the paranasal sinuses to look for any polypoidal changes or chronic sinusitis, depending upon which the medications can be administered.
I would not advise you to take these medicines by yourself, because, oral corticosteroids can harm your body if not taken under the Doctor’s supervision. We do care for you hence please do not attempt to take this medicines by yourself.
I pray God to give you good health.
Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Kampana
Answered by
Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty
Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist
Practicing since :2001
Answered : 2543 Questions
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