Rhinitis medicamentosa Treatment
WHAT IS RHINITIS MEDICAMENTOSA?
Rhinitis medicamentosa, or rebound congestion, is a lesser-known form of Rhinitis. It happens when you overuse nasal decongestants, resulting in the medication further irritating your nasal cavity rather than making it better.
Although it is not a commonly occurring condition, you could be at potential risk of developing Rhinitis medicamentosa if you regularly use nasal decongestant sprays.
SYMPTOMS?
Unlike other types of rhinitis, wherein symptoms include itchy eyes, nose, and throat, rhinitis medicamentosa’s main symptom is nasal congestion. Since there is no definitive test to determine this condition, it is harder to diagnose the nasal congestion as caused by rhinitis medicamentosa. However, if it is to blame, you should feel better as you stop using the decongestant sprays.
RHINITIS MEDICAMENTOSA TREATMENT OPTIONS?
A major step towards treating rhinitis medicamentosa is stopping the use of nasal decongestants. However, doctors do recommend stopping it gradually rather than all at once.
Depending on the severity of your case, additional steps may also be advised, including the following:
Mild cases: a nasal saline spray may be recommended, as it only contains salt and water, and does not adversely affect the nasal cavity.
Slight severe cases: a nasal glucocorticosteroid may be prescribed to help with the congestion and inflammation. Oral medication may also be given if additional treatment is necessary.
Extreme cases: surgery may be recommended if the congestion is severe and has led to the formation of polyps in the nasal cavity.
PRE AND POST-TREATMENT STEPS?
Depending on the severity of your case, and the treatment allocated to you, the doctor will guide you through the steps you need to take before and after the treatment.
PREVENTIVE MEASURES?
The biggest way you could prevent the possibility of developing rhinitis medicamentosa, is by using nasal decongestants only as prescribed by the doctor or as mentioned on the packaging. Be wary of the chemicals used in certain decongestants as some may increase the risk of you developing rhinitis medicamentosa. However, you do not need to completely refrain from using decongestant sprays simply due to the fear of developing rhinitis medicamentosa. Just be mindful of the spray, its contents, and its dosage.
Visit Dr. K O CHAN for Rhinitis medicamentosa Treatment.
