Dr Seah has provided a very good and comprehensive explanation of the two common types of nasal sprays for relief of blocked nose. Without being too repetitive, I would like to add the following points:
1. Nasal steroid sprays (e.g. Nasonex, Avamys, Nasacort, Dymista etc)
- Used mainly in the treatment of Rhinitis (Allergic or non allergic) and Sinusitis (sinus infections)
- Reduces nasal blockage, runny nose, postnasal drip and sneezing
- Works by reducing inflammation in the nasal cavity
- Takes time to work (up to 2weeks before optimal effect is seen)
- Has to be used daily (regardless of presence of nasal symptoms)
- Meant to be used long term (like for years if persistently exposed to the trigger)
- Many studies have shown that most of the newer steroid sprays has less than 0.5% absoprtion rate into the bloodstream. Hence the side effects in other organs are negligible. Some nasal steroid sprays are approved for use safely in children as young as 2 years old.
2. Nasal decongestant (e.g. Afrin, Iliadin, Otrivin, Nazolin etc)
- Used mainly for a cold or sinus infection
- Relieves nasal blockage/congestion
- Works by vasoconstriction (causing the blood vessels in the nose to constrict/"shrink")
- Works almost immediately. Because of this, many patients end up being "reliant" or "overused" it.
- Not meant to be used longer than 7-10 days or risk a troubling condition known as Rhinitis Medicantosa aka Rebound Rhinitis. Prolonged use of this medication will result in damage to the lining of the nasal cavity. This may result in more swelling and congestion in the nasal cavity in the long term.
Hope this helps and all the best!
