Nasal sprays and decongestants are an essential remedy for relieving a blocked nose.
However, health officials have warned that the sprays could cause irreversible damage to the respiratory tract.
New research has found that almost 60 percent of pharmacists believe patients are unaware that these sprays should not be used long-term, putting them at serious risk of rebound congestion.
Experts from the Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) say that using them beyond a specified period can irritate the sensitive blood vessels in the nose, causing swelling.
This makes congestion worse, leading to a vicious cycle that leaves patients dependent on medications to help them breathe.
Medically known as rhinitis medicamentosa, it can affect anyone who overuses nasal sprays, triggering irritation, runny nose, sneezing and congestion.
Some patients with a history of this condition are even required to undergo surgery to reverse the damage caused by chronic swelling, which can lead to breathing problems.
Research by ITV and Ipsos found that more than a fifth of adults who used the sprays did so for more than a week, meaning around 5.5 million people in the UK are at risk of becoming addicted.
Professor Amira Guirguis, chief scientist at the RPS, said: “Our research shows that many people are unaware of this risk, meaning they may continue to use these sprays without realizing they could prolong their symptoms. »
The expert continued: “We would like to see clearer warnings on packaging, which you cannot miss, and greater awareness of the seven-day limit. »
She added: “The response must be proportionate to the risk, and at this time the immediate and important step to take is to clarify the message and health advice with a front-of-pack statement that this product should not be used beyond the seven day limit. »
PAGB, the consumer healthcare association representing manufacturers of branded over-the-counter medicines in the UK, responded to this concern and clarified:
“As an over-the-counter medication, nasal decongestants are indicated for short-term relief of symptoms, and the products state on the packaging and patient information leaflet that they should not be used continuously for more than seven days. The patient information leaflet, which accompanies all nasal decongestant sprays, highlights the risks of taking the medication for longer than its indicated use.”
