Should I use a nasal spray for my acute rhinitis?

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

If you are an adult, you can use a decongestant nasal spray for the nasal congestion due to acute rhinitis, but you should not use these for more than the time specified on the bottle. This is usually just a few days. Children ages 6-12 need adult supervision to use these, and should not use them under the age of 6 without a doctor's approval. Saline nasal sprays, which contain no decongestant, may be a safer alternative to help clear nasal congestion.

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Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Nose Disorders

Your nose plays a very important part in maintaining your health. As you breathe it filters out the bad stuff in the air like dust and germs. It also moistens the air as you breathe so that your lungs stay hydrated and healthy. You can be miserable if your nose is injured or irritated, whatever the cause. Nose disorders can range from a simple nosebleed or a runny nose that can be treated at home to more serious disorders such as nasal polyps (growths) or a deviated septum (a twist in the wall that separates the two sides of your nose) that may require surgery. Whatever the cause of your nose problem, it's important to know that you can usually be helped by seeing an ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctor.

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