17/06/2026
👃 THE HIDDEN DANGER OF NASAL SPRAYS — WHEN “HELPING” YOUR BLOCKED NOSE CAN MAKE IT WORSE
Many people use nasal decongestant sprays during colds, hay fever or sinus congestion without realising that prolonged use can actually create a cycle of worsening blockage and dependence.
At ShawScope, we regularly speak to people who have used these sprays for months — sometimes even years — because they physically feel unable to breathe without them.
This condition is known as:
⚠️ Rhinitis Medicamentosa (RM)
Often called “rebound congestion.”
Common sprays involved include:
• Xylometazoline
• Oxymetazoline
• Sudafed nasal sprays
• Otrivine sprays
These sprays work by shrinking swollen blood vessels inside the nose, giving quick relief. The problem is that over time, the nose becomes dependent on the medication.
The result?
👃 Your nose blocks again between doses
👃 The congestion becomes worse than the original problem
👃 You need the spray more frequently
👃 You may start carrying it everywhere with you
👃 Some people even wake repeatedly overnight needing it
Many people don’t realise this is happening until they try to stop.
⚠️ NEW MHRA GUIDANCE
The MHRA recently reduced the recommended maximum safe use of these sprays from 7 days down to JUST 5 DAYS due to concerns around rebound congestion and dependence.
Long-term overuse may lead to:
• Chronic nasal inflammation
• Swollen nasal tissue
• Persistent congestion
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Raised blood pressure
• Rapid heartbeat
• Psychological dependence on the spray
The difficult part is this:
❗When stopping the spray, the congestion often gets WORSE before it gets better.
This is one of the main reasons people restart using it.
Recovery is possible — but the first 1–2 weeks can be very difficult.
Ways people are often supported through withdrawal include:
✔ Gradually reducing the spray
✔ Using saline rinses
✔ Switching to steroid nasal sprays such as fluticasone or mometasone
✔ Treating underlying allergies or sinus issues
✔ ENT referral if symptoms persist
One common method is treating only one nostril at a time, allowing the other side to recover first.
It’s important to remember:
🚫 Nasal decongestant sprays are designed for SHORT-TERM use only.
If you feel unable to stop using your spray, or your nose feels permanently blocked without it, it may be worth speaking to your GP, pharmacist or ENT specialist.
Many people suffer with this silently for years without realising the spray itself has become part of the problem.
As always, this post is for education and awareness only and should not replace medical advice from your healthcare professional.
