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Is It Safe To Put Mentholatum Inside Nostrils For Stuffy Nose?

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Posted on Tue, 23 Dec 2014
Question: Can I put mentholatum inside my nostals when stuffed up?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Panagiotis Zografakis (31 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
No !

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

the answer is a simple no! Mentholatum can be applied on intact healthy skin only. It can cause irritation on the skin and even more irritation on other areas. Testing for skin sensitivity with a small quantity is adviced before applying more of it.
I hope I've helped!
If you'd like more information, please let me know.

Kind Regards!
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T
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Follow up: Dr. Panagiotis Zografakis (41 minutes later)
I've put Mentholatum up my nostrils and it has opened them up so I can breathe better. Why can't I do this when I'm not using my other nose spray so I don't have to use nose spray as much? Thank You.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Panagiotis Zografakis (15 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Still a no!

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

I understand you've found some relief but I would advice against using it inside the nostrils. You can check the product summary to confirm that its use should be external only. This is done for two reasons. The first is that applying it anywhere besides the skin might cause irritation (nostril irritation can present with sneezing, coughing etc) and the second is that absorption of its elements might cause serious health problems like seizures, headache, nausea etc. Chronic use is also detrimental to the kidneys and the nervous system.
Using a nasal decongestant for a few days and perhaps also add a first generation antihistamine drug may prove helpful. If you do use them, it would be better if you used them only before sleep at night to avoid overusing them and getting all the side-effects.
Please use your follow-up question, if you'd like me to clarify anything.

Kind Regards!
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. Raju A.T
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Answered by
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Dr. Panagiotis Zografakis

Internal Medicine Specialist

Practicing since :1999

Answered : 3810 Questions

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Is It Safe To Put Mentholatum Inside Nostrils For Stuffy Nose?

Brief Answer: No ! Detailed Answer: Hello, the answer is a simple no! Mentholatum can be applied on intact healthy skin only. It can cause irritation on the skin and even more irritation on other areas. Testing for skin sensitivity with a small quantity is adviced before applying more of it. I hope I've helped! If you'd like more information, please let me know. Kind Regards!