Did you know that 13.1% of Singaporeans experience allergic rhinitis? Triggered by the body’s reaction towards allergens, this condition is manifested by bothersome symptoms such as blocked nose and non-stop sneezing.
If you are the unfortunate one out of ten people who suffers routinely from allergic rhinitis, you surely understand how frustrating these symptoms are. Fortunately, there are multiple solutions to relieve an allergic rhinitis attack. In this article, we will focus on nasal sprays – a clear choice for many due to their practical and straightforward application.
There are three common types of nasal sprays – each made up of various compositions. If you are looking for the best nasal spray to soothe sinus pressure and nasal congestion, read further to understand the intricacies of each type of nasal sprays to help pick the one best suited for you.
Understanding the Types of Nasal Sprays
1. Steroid Nasal Spray
Steroid nasal sprays contain corticosteroids – a type of manufactured drug used to treat a range of inflammatory conditions. While steroid nasal sprays are effective at reducing symptoms such as congestion, sneezing and runny nose, long-term use of any steroids can cause side effects. These include nosebleeds, nausea and headaches. Thus, it is highly recommended to follow the instructions when using a steroid nasal spray.
Steroid nasal sprays may not be the best option if you are looking for quick relief from allergic rhinitis or sinus discomfort. Upon use, it can take up to several days for a steroid spray to build up to its full effect, and a further two to four weeks for you to see tangible and significant benefits.
2. Saline Nasal Sprays
Saline sprays, as their name would suggest, contain a small amount of salt and sterilised water meant to thin mucus, clear debris and flush out the nasal cavity. The end goal is to clear your nasal pathways for easier breathing when congestion arises.
While saline sprays are great for individuals looking for a natural and non-medicated approach, this also means that it is typically not as effective in treating the full suite of allergy symptoms.
Furthermore, the effects of saline sprays are relatively short-lived compared to other nasal sprays. They are good in a pinch, but might not have the lasting effects one might want from a nasal spray.
3. Nasal Decongestant Sprays
Block or stuffy nose is caused by inflamed blood vessels in your nasal passages. Nasal decongestants offer quick relief by working to narrow these inflamed blood vessels, breaking the vicious cycle of continuous congestion and pressure. Decongestant sprays are extremely quick-acting and take effect in just a matter of minutes, offering you relief for up to 12 hours.
However, this efficacy does come at a price. Decongestant sprays should not be used for more than three to five days consecutively. Doing so will consequently lead to dependency on decongestant sprays, which may bring about complications down the road.
If you are looking for a decongestant spray that can help you breathe easy, consider Sato Pharmaceutical Nazal Spray. Containing antihistamine – an ingredient that works by blocking the effects of histamine – Sato Pharmaceutical Nazal Spray is your fast-acting solution to allergies.
Choosing the Right Nasal Spray
Each type of spray comes with its own unique sets of pros and cons – some are more suitable for long-term use, while others are better utilised for short-term relief. As always, be sure to check in with your doctor prior to use if you are unsure if a nasal spray is a good option for you.
