For people who suffer from severe allergies or frequent sinus infections, nasal spray can be a fast and easy way to get some relief. But should you be turning to nasal spray every time you’re feeling a little congested?

Understanding Nasal Spray

Not all nasal sprays are created equal — while some are designed for daily use, others shouldn’t be used for more than a few days in a row.

Saline Nasal Sprays

Saline nasal sprays are good for everyday use because they’re comprised of a salt water solution, rather than medication.

Steroid Nasal Sprays

Steroid nasal sprays contain a corticosteroid which helps to reduce inflammation. While long-term (several weeks or months) use of a steroid spray can have some negative effects, these sprays need to be used for a few consecutive days in order to be effective.

Antihistamine Nasal Sprays

Antihistamine sprays are predominantly used by people who suffer from seasonal allergies. By blocking a chemical called histamine, these sprays can alleviate a runny nose, sneezing, and itching.

Decongestant Nasal Sprays

Out of all the sprays mentioned on this list, a decongestant spray is the only one that can cause “nasal spray addiction.” Decongestants are popular because they instantly alleviate the symptoms of a cold by temporarily shrinking the blood vessels in your nose. However, if you use a spray too often or for too long, you may find yourself needing the spray to breath easy even when you’re not congested.

Schedule your same-day appointment with Center for Allergy and Asthma of Georgia today! Our team of board-certified allergy specialists will discuss your options and recommend an appropriate course of treatment. Contact us at (404) 994-3574 or visit us online to book your appointment.