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Allergy is a common condition and is gradually rising recently, in which the number of people with food, skin, or respiratory allergies has increased globally in the recent decades wherein half of EU’s population alone is predicted to be affected by an allergy by 2025.
The allergic reaction that an individual can have, ranges from mild to severe, with severe called anaphylaxis that is known to lead an individual to death. Now, not all allergic reactions can immediately lead to death, but it may make you feel uncomfortable and even miserable.
With this said, nasal sprays can bring relief like Nasacort Aq Nasal Spray which has a Nasacort Aq Nasal Spray coupon that is available in your local pharmacy. However, in this article, we will be discussing as to which nasal spray fits you best and many more. So, read on for more information about the said options.
Types and Usage of Nasal Spray
Discussed below are the following types and usage of nasal spray, in which one might be considering of using as a nasal spray for alleviating allergy symptoms.
Prescription Nasal Sprays
Prescription nasal sprays are the type of medication wherein a prescription by a doctor is needed before obtaining one. Examples of this type of nasal spray are Beconase, Nasonex, Flonase, Veramyst, Omnaris, and other prescribed medicines which contains corticosteroids as the active ingredient.
This type of nasal sprays help prevents and relieve your sneezing, and other nasal symptoms like a stuffy, runny, or itchy nose that is caused by allergens.
Over-the-counter Nasal Sprays
Nasal sprays like these mostly contain an anti-inflammatory agent which is called as cromolyn sodium, that prevents the release of the inflammatory substances.
Now, if this is taken before exposure to allergens (such as pollens, pet dander, and dust) then these types of nasal sprays can help prevent allergy symptoms. Not to mention that it is also used as a prevention for asthma attacks.
Astelin or Other Antihistamine Nasal Sprays
This type of nasal spray can prevent the congestion of your nose and sinuses, as well as postnasal drip.
These kinds of antihistamine nasal spray work by blocking the effects of histamine, a chemical substance inside your body which is released by your immune system during an allergy attack making you experience the allergic reactions.
Non-prescription Decongestant Sprays
Afrin and Dristan are one of the primary examples of this type of decongestant spray which help lessen an individual’s nasal congestion. However, these medications are not recommended as a treatment for chronic allergies.
An allergy and immunology specialist and is a clinical instructor of medicine at the prestigious Harvard Medical School in Boston, Dr. Anna Feldwig, MD, stated a precaution against using over-the-counter decongestant sprays.
In which she expressed that the over-the-counter decongestant nasal sprays are only good for short-term use like using it for a day or two if you have a cold, but are not for long-term treatment of allergies, she stated.
Saline Nasal Sprays
Saline, which name is derived from its content which is of a saltwater solution, helps soften mucus that causes it to drain more easily.
As per Dr. Feldwig’s statement, saline nasal sprays are what you call like building blocks or is a first step towards alleviating allergy symptoms for allergy sufferers because they do not have any side effects.
Who Should and Shouldn’t Consider Nasal Sprays?
Although commonly, allergy sufferers opt for oral medicine such as an antihistamine like Cetirizine, many might also benefit from nasal sprays alone. As for how Dr. Feldweg puts it, why would you treat your whole body if the issue is only your nose?
Thus, most patients easily tolerate prescription nasal sprays which are formulated for long-term use. However, people with any damage to their nasal passages should avoid using nasal sprays altogether since it may affect the damaged area.
On the other hand, there might be common side effects of both the prescription and over-the-counter nasal sprays which can include bitter smell or taste, nasal irritation, sneezing, a runny nose or nosebleeds— especially if the weather’s cold and dry.
Consult a doctor if you are experiencing persistently of any of the said side effects such as nosebleeds or crusty scabs in the nose, which both may indicate that you are using the nasal spray incorrectly.
Takeaway
Nasal sprays are just one of the various medications you can choose from as a form of treatment for your allergic reactions. Nevertheless, it still helps alleviate the symptoms of allergies depending on the individual using the said medication and the medication itself.
Moreover, one should remember to take these medications seriously by following the medication’s and your doctor’s instruction in using the said medication. With this said, you should help your medicine to help alleviate the symptoms by simply doing those things stated.
Lastly, do not hesitate to contact your doctor should you have any persistent side effects from using your antihistamine oral medication or nasal spray.
