German researchers warn about using nasal spray. If this kind of product often proves effective, it is incumbent not to use it too much. According to the researchers, there are risks of seeing side effects appear.
When our nose is congested, the use of a nasal spray is often synonymous with relief . Beyond its effectiveness, it should be avoided to use it too often. A study from the German Society of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology (Germany) published on November 2, 2020 recalled the positive effects of the nasal spray, but also issued a warning. The researchers point out that the nasal spray acts on the blood vessels of the nasal turbinate. It allows to tighten the vessels, having the effect of reducing the swelling of the nasal turbinate. Indeed, space is freed to allow air circulation in the nose.
“Nasal sprays have a pleasant effect and clear our minds, which we can get used to”, explains Heino Stöver, lead author of the study.
As the spray provides a pleasant feeling of release , the mucous membranes could get used to receiving their daily dose. Thus, a vicious circle can set in. The more people use the nasal spray, the faster its effect diminishes and the more the nose seems to demand its dose. After a while, the nasal spray no longer helps and can give way to a chronic problem of nasal congestion, synonymous with difficulty moistening the mucous membranes.
It turns out that Heino Stöver knows what he's talking about, as he used nasal sprays excessively in his youth. For two years, the person concerned used these sprays several times a day. At the time, the potential dangers of misuse of these sprays were poorly known. However, it is now advisable not to use it for more than two consecutive weeks. This kind of drug does not have psychoactive effects like alcohol, cannabis or cocaine. It therefore does not create any addiction. Nevertheless, he makes it known that on the contrary, these sprays end up losing their effect. People can then move towards massive daily use, between 3 and 8 times a day.
Dried out due to the disappearance of the effects of the nasal spray, the mucous membranes no longer assume their protective role. Indeed, the nasal mucous membranes must be regularly hydrated to protect the body from germs . If so, scabs may form and lead to infection. In some cases, it is a question of atrophic rhinitis causing a bad smell coming from the nose.
The study leaders recommend a gradual reduction nasal spray consumption. It also makes sense to keep a kind of daily catch diary. Other alternatives exist, such as sprays containing sea salt. For any problem related to a loss of effect of the sprays and a disability in the mucous membranes, it is incumbent to consult a doctor.
