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Nasal spray addiction: Risks of long-term decongestant use
Medical experts are warning that the uncontrolled, long-term use of nasal decongestant sprays can lead to addiction and serious health complications. While these sprays are intended for short-term relief of symptoms like sinusitis or colds, many users continue using them for months or even years.
Associate Professor Lütfü Şeneldir, an ENT specialist at Medipol Mega University Hospital, states that these products should typically only be used for 3 to 5 days. Prolonged use can cause physical issues such as nasal mucosa dryness, irritation, crusting, and nosebleeds. Furthermore, as the effectiveness of the spray diminishes over time, users may increase frequency, leading to enlarged nasal tissues and chronic congestion.
Beyond local nasal issues, systemic side effects may include palpitations, increased blood pressure, and restlessness. Treatment for addiction often involves ocean water and physician-supervised nasal corticosteroid sprays. If nasal tissue enlargement becomes permanent and medication is ineffective, surgical intervention may be required.
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- [● 2 SOURCES] Treatment for addiction may involve ocean water and physician-controlled nasal corticosteroid sprays. www.gazetebirlik.com · www.haberport.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Surgical intervention may be necessary if nasal tissues are permanently enlarged and medication fails. www.gazetebirlik.com · www.haberport.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Systemic side effects may include palpitations, increased blood pressure, and restlessness. www.gazetebirlik.com · www.haberport.com · www.mersinhaber.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Long-term use can cause nasal mucosa dryness, irritation, crusting, and nosebleeds. www.gazetebirlik.com · www.haberport.com · www.mersinhaber.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Uncontrolled long-term use of nasal sprays can lead to addiction. www.gazetebirlik.com · www.haberport.com · www.mersinhaber.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Frequent use can lead to enlarged nasal tissues and chronic congestion. www.gazetebirlik.com · www.haberport.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Nasal decongestant sprays should typically be used for only 3 to 5 days. www.gazetebirlik.com · www.haberport.com · www.mersinhaber.com