Tsk, tsk. Nasal decongestants are highly addictive and should never be used for more than 3 days in a row. What happens is known as rebound congestion. It's the result of abnormal swelling in the nasal mucosa which blocks your nasal airway and causes pain and discomfort. But it is temporarily relieved with another doseage of a decongestant spray...the very thing that caused the problem in the first place.
Breaking this addiction is not a matter of will power. You're going to need help. You should go see your doctor or allergist. There is no effective treatment for RM (Rhinitis medicamentosa or rebound congestion) but what a doctor will do is give you intranasal steroids and tell you not to use any decongestants. Expect a period of complete congestion for about 4-7 days before the treatment takes effect.
Posts: 9192 | Location: Atlanta, GA, USA | Registered: 06-03-02
