SATURDAY, Feb. 15 (HealthDayNews)-- That cool, soothing feeling that follows a squirt of a nasal decongestant spray makes it seem as though help has arrived.
The nose knows, however, that the first refreshing tingle is only window dressing for the real medicine in nasal sprays.
According the National Institutes of Health, that initial sensation is probably from camphor, eucalyptus, menthol, lavender or a combination of these common plant extracts. They have a cooling effect on the surface of the skin, which can be nice for an irritated nose, but they don't do a thing for nasal congestion.
The real medicine in nasal spray is most often oxymetazoline or phenylephrine, both of which reduce inflammation to promote drainage of congestion. Oxymetazoline is also used in eye drops, to constrict blood vessels and get the red out, while stronger doses of phenylephrine are commonly used during surgery to decrease blood pressure.
Like most drugs, both can have serious side effects if overused. These include interruptions of heart rhythm and perforation of the nasal septum. Some reports even suggest nasal sprays can be addictive.
All over-the-counter nasal sprays recommend a dose usually twice a day for three days that should not be exceeded without consulting a doctor.
For nasal congestion relief with fewer side effects, saline-based sprays that moisten dry nasal tissues are often suggested, although their decongestant effects are usually not as dramatic. Saline also has topical antibiotic effects. This milder remedy is often recommended for pregnant women and young children.
More information
Learn more about nasal congestion and its treatment from the National Library of Medicine.
