Overdose And Addiction
APPROX. 1/4 CANADIANS SUFFERING FROM CHRONIC SINUS PROBLEMS
BECOME ADDICTED TO OVER-THE-COUNTER NASAL SPRAYS
Nasal passage inflammation is what causes congestion. These are the voids inside the nose that are filled with air. Decongestant nasal sprays (DNSs) reduce swollen blood vessels in the nasal passages, providing relief right away.
It gets easier to breathe because of the inflammation being reduced.
DNSs should only be used for three days at most. They may result in rebound congestion if used for a longer period of time. This type of rhinitis is known as medicamentosa. It denotes medication-induced congestion.
DNSs cause people to become tolerant. This implies that they must take progressively larger doses to get the desired result. Drug addiction is distinct from tolerance, which can result in physical dependence.
Rebound congestion is an unfortunate phenomenon where using DNSs for an excessive amount of time results in congestion rather than preventing it. The topic is somewhat divisive. In fact, many scientists are dubious about its veracity.
According to some studies, the longer a DNS is used, the more tolerance is developed. Drug tolerance refers to the need for ever-higher and more frequent doses to produce the desired results.
The blood vessels in the nasal passages shrink as a result of decongestants. They swell up once more when the drug wears off. This immediately results in withdrawal congestion.
What are the symptoms of nasal spray abuse?
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Used for more than a week.
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Used more frequently than recommended.
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Extreme congestion experienced after skipping a dose or stopping use.
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Congestion is the main sign of DNS withdrawal. Furthermore, whatever initially caused the congestion is probably going to do so again. If the patient experiences chronic allergies, this is especially true.
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The following symptoms can also be experienced:
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runny nose
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sore throat
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sneezing
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difficulty breathing
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headache sinus pressure