Nasal spray overuse can lead to addiction and surgery, experts warn

nasal sprays decongestant addiction rebound effect nasal congestion otolaryngology

Medical experts are warning that the unsupervised use of over-the-counter decongestant nasal sprays can lead to biological addiction and permanent nasal congestion. Prof. Dr. Kasım Durmuş from the Medicana Health Group emphasizes that using these sprays for more than five days can trigger a rebound effect, where the body reacts negatively to the medication.

This rebound effect occurs because the sprays constrict blood vessels to provide quick relief. However, prolonged use can exhaust nasal mucosa receptors, causing them to decrease in number. When the medication's effect wears off, the body responds by sending excessive blood to the area to compensate for reduced oxygen, leading to severe swelling and edema. This creates a vicious cycle where the patient requires more frequent use to manage worsening congestion.

Beyond physical issues, such as the potential for permanent enlargement of nasal tissues that may require surgery, experts note the risk of psychological addiction. Patients may experience panic attacks or a sense of suffocation if they do not have the spray available. To manage this, doctors recommend a gradual reduction in usage and suggest alternatives such as corticosteroid sprays, antihistamines, or hypertonic nasal irrigation solutions.

Entities

Medicana Health Group · Prof. Dr. Kasım Durmuş

Claims

What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.

[● 3 SOURCES] Uncontrolled use of nasal sprays can lead to a situation requiring surgical intervention. www.gazetebirlik.com · www.medyagazete.com · www.aksiyon.com.tr
[● 3 SOURCES] Using these sprays for more than 5 days can cause a rebound effect in the body. www.gazetebirlik.com · www.medyagazete.com · www.aksiyon.com.tr
[● 3 SOURCES] Using decongestant nasal sprays for more than 5 days carries a risk of permanent nasal congestion and biological addiction. www.gazetebirlik.com · www.medyagazete.com · www.aksiyon.com.tr
[● 2 SOURCES] To prevent addiction, patients are advised to taper off spray use gradually during treatment. www.gazetebirlik.com · www.aksiyon.com.tr
[● 2 SOURCES] Nasal spray addiction can trigger psychological symptoms, including panic attacks and a sensation of being unable to breathe without the spray. www.gazetebirlik.com · www.aksiyon.com.tr