Allergic rhinitis is the most common consequence of various allergic diseases. This is due to the fact that the lion's share of these diseases is their respiratory variety. That is, one in which the respiratory organs are affected, in view of their contact with the allergen. Such phenomena can be characteristic of allergies to pollen, animal hair, perfume components, etc.
In principle, sprays could be called an analogue of nasal drops, with one exception: the use of sprays is more convenient, since there is no need to tilt your head back, wait for some time until the active substance is absorbed, etc. Symptoms of allergic rhinitis can appear at the most inopportune time and in the most inopportune place. While it is necessary to get rid of nasal respiratory manifestations as soon as possible, special nasal sprays come to the rescue.
What are nasal sprays used for?
Allergic rhinitis is a very common symptom of allergic diseases. Its action causes significant discomfort to a person, often this phenomenon is the reason for going to an allergist. Allergic rhinitis is an inflammatory phenomenon that occurs in the nasal cavity and adjacent areas, as a result of the provoking effect of an allergen.
Allergic rhinitis looks like swelling of the mucous membranes of the nose, caused by the expansion of local capillaries, accompanied by constant runny nose, itching and irritation, as well as constant sneezing, especially at the time of contact with the allergen. These symptoms cause difficulty in nasal breathing. The use of sprays, in this case, allows you to remove or alleviate (depending on the type of spray) this symptomatology, improve nasal breathing.
This phenomenon is an integral part of the immune response complex, which manifests itself instantly. Basically, this happens immediately after contact with the allergen. In some cases, 20 minutes may pass, rarely more than this time.
Nasal sprays are used for the following allergy symptoms:
- sneezing caused by contact with an allergen;
- runny nose, in the form of transparent discharge;
- vasodilatation, within the sinuses;
- nasal congestion;
- violation of the act of breathing
In this case, in order for the treatment with the help of special nasal sprays to be effective, it is necessary that these symptoms are caused precisely by allergic reactions. For example, the use of antihistamine nasal sprays is effective only in case of allergic rhinitis. If inflammatory processes are caused by bacterial or viral invasions, then they may be ineffective.
Often, the patient notes a tendency to this symptomatology even in childhood. In such a child, in 50% of cases there are relatives who have an allergy. At the same time, the nature of the allergen and the form of manifestation of an allergic reaction may vary.
Nasal sprays: pros and cons
Nasal spray, during the treatment of manifestations of an allergic reaction concentrated in the nose, is a very convenient and at the same time effective remedy for relieving symptoms. Its use does not require any special procedures, as during the use of drugs in the form of drops. Do not be alarmed when you hear the phrase “intranasal remedy”, this is just a medical version of the name of nasal sprays, meaning that the active substance is injected purposefully into the nasal cavity.
Benefits of nasal sprays:
- A targeted effect on the symptomatology, concentrated in the nasal cavity. If allergic rhinitis is the only manifestation of an allergic reaction, then in most cases, this is the only kind of remedy that is needed to eliminate the symptoms.
- The possibility of creating a buffer consisting of accumulations of active substances in the nasal plane, which can prevent the development of allergy symptoms in the future;
- Convenient dosage form for use;
- Fewer common side effects from sprays than from systemic drugs
Disadvantages of nasal sprays:
- The impossibility of influencing other symptoms of allergic reactions;
- Exclusively local action;
- The possibility of irritation of the nasal mucosa, hypersensitivity in some patients to the components of the drug;
- May be ineffective, with complete nasal congestion
Varieties of nasal sprays
Antihistamines
This category of nasal sprays is the same active ingredients as the classic tablet antihistamines. Their action is based on the ability of active substances to cause blockade of histamine receptors (this hormone causes allergy symptoms, including nasal ones). Antihistamine sprays are great when you need to prevent nasal allergic reactions from developing as soon as possible. The maximum therapeutic effect from their use is achieved after 10-15 minutes.
Antihistamine nasal sprays are not a good option for cooks and tasters because they leave a bitter taste in the mouth for a long time after use. Their use often has such a side effect as a violation of the sense of smell and taste perception of products and other substances.
Hormonal sprays
Hormonal nasal sprays are synthetic analogues of the human hormone cortisol, or its derivatives. They are rightfully considered the most effective means against allergies. because they affect all mechanisms of the immune response that develops during allergic and other reactions. Their use allows you to eliminate allergic rhinitis, relieve inflammation, remove itching and irritation.
Unfortunately, these remedies not only quickly eliminate the symptoms of an allergic reaction, they are also marked by a high risk of side effects. The use of topical corticosteroid sprays avoids the many side effects associated with injectable or tablet forms of corticosteroids.
However, even their use in the form of sprays can lead to a deterioration in local immunity, as well as to the appearance of nasal bleeding and weakening of the nasal septum.
Mast cell membrane stabilizers
This group of medicinal sprays for allergies prevents the release of histamine into the blood, thereby preventing the development of allergy symptoms. Due to the blocking of the potassium channel, the activity of which allows the release of gitsamine, the intensity of allergic reactions decreases. Unfortunately, the effect of these drugs is weaker than that of the previous groups. Therefore, they are not used as the sole drug in the treatment of allergic disorders.
Antisorbent sprays
This group of nasal sprays is different in that the active ingredients of the drug do not affect the mechanisms of development of an allergic reaction. Instead, they prevent the body from coming into contact with allergens. Their action is based on the ability to create a special protective barrier that prevents the nasal mucosa from absorbing allergens. The advantage of these drugs is a high degree of safety, since they do not affect the work of any organs. In rare cases, a short-lived nasal congestion may develop during the first days of use.
Separate types of allergy sprays
Allergodil (nasal spray): An antihistamine spray used to relieve allergy symptoms. Maximizes its effect if applied before the alleged contact with the allergen, within a few days. Suitable for long-term use, provided that it lasts no more than six months. Basically, one injection is used in each nasal passage, several times a day.
Levocabastine is also an effective antihistamine spray. Its action takes place within 5 minutes, so it is perfect for relieving acute manifestations of allergies. In quite rare cases, side effects can be expressed as follows: lethargy, daytime sleepiness, migraine attacks, discomfort at the point of contact, dryness of the nasal mucosa, nosebleeds.
Cromolyn is a spray based on the active substance sodium cromoglycate, which, by blocking the calcium channel, prevents the mediators of an allergic reaction from entering the bloodstream. A good tool for prevention, or to enhance the therapeutic effect of other drugs. It is not suitable for instantly relieving allergy symptoms, since its own effect occurs a week or two after ingestion.
Nasonex is a corticosteroid drug intended for intranasal administration. Available in the form of a spray, it reduces inflammatory and allergic reactions in the nasopharynx. The use may be accompanied by nosebleeds, damage to the nasal septum, irritation of the mucous membrane. Not suitable for long-term use as there is a risk of general side effects.
Nazarel is an effective corticosteroid nasal spray indicated for the short-term treatment of acute symptoms of allergic reactions. Often dries out the skin when applied, can cause nasal bleeding. It is not used in the treatment of allergic rhinitis, in children under 4 years of age.
