Can nasal spray be used for an extended period for nasal congestion caused by COVID-19?

Question

Hi doctor,

I had a COVID infection four weeks ago. My nose was congested throughout, so I was given Hysan nasal spray for seven days. It got better. Then after my COVID was gone, the congestion came back two weeks later. Due to the nasal congestion, I had severe ear pain during traveling, especially when landing as the airplane descended. Thankfully, my ear is better now. Currently, I am back on Hysan for seven days. However, I am aware that I cannot use it long-term. So what alternatives are there as nasal sprays that I can use daily for an extended period? Kindly suggest.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern, and it is not good to get accustomed to Hysan (Xylometazoline) spray for a long time. It will cause rhinitis medicamentosa, which will again increase your nasal stuffiness. I need a few more details before I suggest you a nasal spray. Also, do you get bouts of sneezing, watering of the nose, nasal itching, etc., along with congestion? Is the congestion unilateral or bilateral? Thanks and regards.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

These post-COVID symptoms are seen in most COVID recovered patients, so do not worry. I wanted a clarification to rule out allergic rhinitis, so I asked the above questions. I suggest you take saline nasal sprays, which are safe and can be used three to four times a day, and are not addictive. Also, I suggest you do steam inhalation twice or thrice daily. You will notice an improvement in your symptoms. If this does not give satisfactory results, you can go ahead with steroid nasal sprays like Budesonide, Mometasone, or Fluticasone one puff twice daily in the morning and night. I think this should pretty much solve your problem. Kindly avoid citrus fruits and bananas for a few days. I hope my answers were helpful. Thanks and regards.