Nasal Spray for Allergies: Know Your Options

If you are someone who deals with allergies, you probably know the symptoms. Stuffy or runny nose, congestion, sneezing, watery and/or itchy eyes are some common symptoms that can make your life miserable. Managing allergies effectively is essential so you have least discomfort and are able to carry out regular activities without a problem. Nasal sprays are one of the best choices for controlling allergy symptoms.

In this blog post, we will discuss the various types of nasal sprays and their side effects so you can work with your doctor to find the best nasal spray for allergies and enjoy a symptom-free time even during the allergy season.

Nasal Spray for Allergies: Available Options for Relief

Decongestant Nasal Sprays

Nasal decongestant sprays are designed to offer relief from blocked nose or congestion caused due to allergies. Oxymetazoline is a decongestant commonly used to treat nasal congestion, and one can easily find oxymetazoline nasal spray over the counter in local pharmacies. Decongestants work by constricting blood vessels in the nose, thereby reducing swelling and congestion.

Decongestant sprays are not to be used for more than three days, as these can create a rebound effect. Always talk to your doctor if you need to use a nasal spray for longer than three days at a stretch.

Side effects of decongestant sprays include:

• Stinging
• Dryness
• Increased bp
• Fast heartbeat
• Rebound of the symptoms

Antihistamine Nasal Sprays

These nasal sprays act by blocking the effects of histamine on the body. Histamine is a chemical associated with the body’s immune system. Whenever the body is exposed to an allergen, it releases histamine, which results in symptoms like itchiness, sneezing, and runny nose. Antihistamine sprays block its effects and provide relief from symptoms.

Side effects of antihistamine sprays include:

• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Nose bleeds
• Dizziness

Steroid Nasal Sprays

Considered the first line of treatment for allergies, steroid nasal sprays are usually available over the counter or through a doctor’s prescription. Common medications include Fluticasone furoate, Mometasone, and Budesonide, among others. The spray is to be taken once or twice a day, depending on your doctor’s recommendation, and must be used for a few weeks. Symptoms like congestion, sneezing, and runny nose get better after using steroid nasal sprays.

Side effects of steroid sprays include:

• Nose bleeds
• Burning sensation
• Dryness
• Irritated throat
• Unpleasant taste in the mouth

Mast Cell Inhibitor Nasal Sprays

Mast cells are a part of the body’s immune system. These cells activate when they notice the body is exposed to harmful invaders like bacteria or allergens. Soon enough, they release chemicals like histamine in response to the invasion. Histamine then causes the typical allergy symptoms like congestion, sneezing, or runny nose. Cromolyn sodium is a mast cell inhibitor often used to make a nasal spray for allergies. One must start using it 1-2 weeks prior to the allergy season for best results.

Side effects of mast cell inhibitor sprays include:

• Nosebleed
• Sneezing
• Burning in the nose
• Increased congestion

Anticholinergic Sprays

Anticholinergic sprays work by blocking the effects of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that increases nasal secretions due to allergies. Anticholinergic drugs like ipratropium bromide help ease the symptoms of allergy and provide relief for close to three weeks. However, these sprays are only available through a doctor’s prescription and cannot be purchased over the counter.

Side effects of anticholinergic sprays include:

• Usual taste in the mouth
• Nosebleeds
• Dryness in nose, mouth, and throat
• Headache
• Nausea
• Diarrhoea

Saline Nasal Sprays

Last on the list are saline nasal sprays. These sprays contain a saltwater solution and do not have any medication. Using saline sprays can reduce allergy symptoms like blocked nose or nasal congestion, wash away allergens from your nostrils, and keep your nasal passages moist and protected. Though these sprays can be used in combination with a medicated spray, it is best to confirm with your doctor before using them together.

Side effects of saline nasal sprays include:

• Itching
• Irritation
• Burning or stinging inside the nostrils

Which Nasal Spray Works Best for Allergies?

Of all the different types, steroid nasal sprays are generally considered the most effective for treating allergy symptoms. They are better at relieving the discomfort compared to other sprays available in the market. You just need to know how to use nasal spray correctly.

If you have been using an OTC nasal spray but aren’t satisfied with the relief it provides, see your doctor and ask about steroid nasal sprays. Your doctor will be able to suggest a spray according to your specific symptoms and needs.

If You Don’t Want to Use a Nasal Spray

Medicated nasal sprays like those available over the counter or by prescription are reliable ways to treat allergy symptoms. However, if you are not comfortable using nasal sprays or wish to try an alternative, you may try nasal irrigation using a bulb syringe or neti pot.

The idea here is to use a saltwater solution to rinse out your nasal passages and relieve troubling symptoms like blocked nose and sinus pressure.

Other Treatment Options for Allergies

Allergies are caused by a host of triggers such as dust, mould, pollen, pet dander, etc. Their treatment depends on the type of symptoms you are experiencing. Nasal sprays are more effective in treating nasal symptoms such as sneezing, runny or blocked nose, post-nasal drip, and more. However, if your symptoms are not limited to your nose and you experience additional symptoms, your doctor may prescribe:

Oral Medications

Decongestants, antihistamines, and leukotriene receptor antagonists to treat symptoms like excessive mucus, itchy eyes and sneezing, and managing overall symptoms, respectively.

Immunotherapy

Also called desensitisation, is a therapy in which the person is gradually exposed to increasing amounts of allergens they are sensitive to. The allergens are administered in the form of sprays, drops, tablets, or injections. Over time, the person becomes less sensitive to these allergens, and their body produces reduced or no symptoms.

When to Visit a Doctor for Allergies

Allergies, when mild, are easily manageable. However, some people experience severe allergies that can hamper their daily activities and make life difficult. So, visit your doctor if allergy symptoms such as itchy eyes, itchy nose, excessive sneezing, blocked or runny nose are disturbing your daily activities. Or if post nasal drip is leaving you uncomfortable throughout the day.

Final Thoughts

Nasal sprays for allergies are effective means to reduce the discomfort, allowing you to carry on with your day-to-day activities without being hindered by the annoying symptoms. Different types of nasal sprays are available to treat allergy symptoms, each having a unique mechanism of action. While many nasal sprays can be bought over the counter, it is better to discuss with your doctor to decide the choice of medication so you can enjoy fast relief with minimal side effects.

FAQs

Is it okay to use a nasal spray for allergies daily?

Let your doctor decide how long and how often you should use a nasal spray. As decongestant sprays may cause a rebound effect if used longer than 3 consecutive days, it is best to ask a doctor if you can use a particular spray daily or not.

Which is the best nose spray for allergies?

A steroid nasal spray is the first choice to relieve allergy symptoms and is usually considered the best nasal spray for allergic rhinitis.

Are nasal sprays for allergies safe?

Nasal sprays are generally safe for most people. However, they can have side effects, which must be informed to a doctor in case they occur after spray use.

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Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment of any health condition.

Source:

https://www.healthline.com/health/allergies/nasal-sprays-for-allergies-how-well-do-they-work#efficacy

https://www.verywellhealth.com/best-nasal-sprays-for-allergies-5218285

https://www.webmd.com/allergies/nasal-sprays