The Hidden Danger of Nasal Sprays: Doctor Warns of Addiction and Rebound Congestion

Nasal Spray Addiction: A Doctor Explains the Risks and How to Avoid Them Millions suffer from nasal congestion, often turning to over-the-counter nasal sprays for relief. However, overuse can lead to serious complications. Dr. Sooj, a board-certified family medicine physician, recently highlighted this issue in a short video. He explains that frequent use of decongestants like oxymetazoline can cause rhinitis medicamentosa, a condition where the nasal passages become inflamed and congested, even when not sick. This can lead to a vicious cycle of dependence, requiring increasingly frequent use to achieve the same effect. "Overusing things like oxymetazoline can be really bad for your nose and lead to rhinitis medicamentosa," warns Dr. Sooj. He emphasizes that the effect is a rebound congestion, making the issue worse than before. The video includes a patient's account of their experience with this addiction, which illustrates the severity of the problem. Dr. Sooj strongly recommends limiting nasal spray use to 2-3 days maximum. He also points out the difference between these decongestants and nasal steroids, which are generally safer for prolonged use. The video serves as a strong reminder to use nasal sprays responsibly and seek medical advice for persistent congestion.