Getting Nosy About Allergy Relief: A Look at 5 Top Nasal Sprays

Friday, November 28 2008

Getting Nosy About Allergy Relief: A Look at 5 Top Nasal Sprays

Nearly everyone is allergic to something, be it indoor or outdoor allergens, or environmental or seasonal pollutants. Allergies can be a real nuisance, and can even be dangerous when they escalate to greater sinus problems including infections. When sinuses become inflamed, the discomfort can make a person miserable and make it impossible to concentrate because of the inability to breathe right, and to deal with the sneezing and eye irritation that can accompany these allergies.

Numerous nasal allergy remedies, both prescription and non-prescription, have proven effective and are easy to obtain. Below is a list of five of the most popular.

1. 1. Antihistamine Nasal Spray Astelin. Astelin is a prescription antihistamine for people who suffer from environmental irritants and seasonal allergens. A steroid-free spray, it is sprayed into each nostril twice a day for hay fever and allergy symptoms including runny nose, sneezing, and itchy nose. Possible side effects may include nasal burning, bitter taste, drowsiness and muscle pain.
    
2. Corticosteroid Nasal Spray Flonase. Recommended for daily use, Flonase is prescribed for nasal symptoms from indoor and outdoor allergies to year-round nonallergic nasal symptoms. Corticosteroids are related to cortisol, a hormone naturally produced in the adrenal cortex (the outer layer of the adrenal gland). While it is largely effective, some people may have a problem with the taste of the medication.
    
3. Decongestant Nasal Spray Afrin. Over-the-counter Afrin promotes nasal drainage and relieves nasal stuffiness. With a 12-hour mist pump it comes in several varieties: Original, Severe Congestion, Extra Moisturizing, and Sinus. While it is effective, many people complain of an “addiction” to Afrin, the result of finding it physically hard to breathe without it.
    
4. Sodium Nasal Spray NasalCrom. Available as an OTC drug, NasalCrom is an anti-inflammatory spray not only helps clear up allergy-related nose problems, but some users claim that it can even help prevent further allergy symptoms. It is said to be good for all types of allergies, including things like dust mites and pet dander that are always in the air.
    
5. Saline Nasal Spray Xlear Nasal Wash. With such ingredients as xylitol, purified water, saline and grapefruit seed, Xlear can help fight allergens, bacteria, pollutants and sinus infections. Nasal washing is part of the daily routine for some people the way brushing their teeth is, and Xlear is perhaps the most popular nasal wash. 

If you suffer from nasal allergies, you may want to do your own research on the Internet to get an idea of what type of nasal spray might be best for you. You also can talk to your doctor to determine which type of nasal spray is best for your situation, and perhaps get a prescription if you believe that a pharmaceutical product is in order.