As of: March 6, 2024, 12:02 p.m
By: Natalie Hull-Deichsel
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Nasal sprays have a decongestant effect and at the same time moisten the nasal mucosa.
The correct application for effective help is important.
Nasal sprays are a popular and effective way to relieve respiratory problems.
In different forms and with different active ingredients, they can treat a wide range of problems such as stuffy noses, allergies or dry mucous membranes.
However, nasal sprays should not be used permanently and if they are, care must be taken to use them correctly in order to avoid unpleasant side effects, as an expert reveals on Tiktok.
Nasal spray not for long-term use – more infections and side effects possible
Since the chemical ingredients in nasal sprays irritate and dry out the mucous membrane over time, bleeding in the nose can occur as a side effect.
In addition, dry nasal mucosa impairs the natural defense function: This means that the fine hairs and mucous membrane normally form an effective barrier against pathogens.
As soon as this protective mechanism is disrupted, viruses and bacteria can colonize and multiply more easily - the risk of further infection due to a cold or flu is increased.
Nasal sprays should therefore not be used for more than seven days at a time without a doctor's order, advises
BARMER.
Reapplication should only be carried out after a break of several days.
Nasal sprays: Effective help for respiratory problems
“If you taste your nasal spray when you use a nasal spray, then unfortunately you are using it incorrectly” – this is the sentence the aspiring doctor, who goes by “medsri” on Tiktok, uses in her video on the topic “Are you using your nasal spray correctly?” a.
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With over 220,000 followers on TikTok and more than 7 million likes, the so-called Medfluencer Sri informs and educates her TikTok community about various medical topics.
Before using the product, it is recommended to blow your nose thoroughly.
The duration of use should correspond to the recommendations of the doctor or the package leaflet.
If symptoms persist for a long time, you should contact your doctor.
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Which nasal sprays for which complaints?
Decongestant sprays contain active ingredients such as xylometazoline or oxymetazoline, which narrow the blood vessels in the nasal mucosa, making nasal breathing easier again.
They are particularly effective for acute rhinitis or nasal congestion due to colds.
However, their use should be limited to short-term use of a maximum of seven days in order to prevent habituation - the possible rebound effect.
Saline nasal sprays, also called isotonic or hypertonic solutions, are a gentler alternative.
They moisten the nasal mucosa and support the natural cleaning of the respiratory tract.
Such sprays are well suited for daily use, especially in dry indoor air or in times of allergies, such as early bloomers.
Cortisone-containing sprays with active ingredients such as fluticasone or budesonide are often used for allergic rhinitis or chronic sinusitis.
They have an anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory effect and can be used for a longer period of time under certain conditions.
However, for long-term use, medical advice should be sought to minimize possible side effects.
This article only contains general information on the respective health topic and is therefore not intended for self-diagnosis, treatment or medication. It in no way replaces a visit to the doctor. Our editorial team is not allowed to answer individual questions about medical conditions.
The editor wrote this article and then used an AI language model for optimization at her own discretion. All information has been carefully checked. Find out more about our AI principles here.