The best nasal spray products for colds

Runny nose is annoying and restricts our quality of life. Everyone knows the feeling of a runny nose and difficulty breathing - especially in the cold season or during allergic reactions. At such times, many people resort to nasal spraysto find quick relief.

Nasal sprays offer a wide range of applications, whether to combat colds or to treat allergies. They work by moistening the nasal mucous membranes or reducing swelling, making it easier to breathe. But not all nasal sprays are the same, and choosing the right product can be crucial for successful use.

In this article, we highlight the best nasal spray products against colds. We will take a closer look at how they work, the areas of application and the selection criteria to help you make the best decisions for your health.

How it works nasal spraysHow they work

Nasal sprays are an effective solution for the treatment of colds and nasal congestion. They contain active ingredients with a decongestant effect, such as xylometazoline and oxymetazoline. These substances constrict the blood vessels in the nasal mucosa. This reduces blood flow and the swelling of the mucous membranes is reduced.

Advantages of nasal sprays

• Freer breathingOpens the airways quickly.
• Relieves swellingSoothes inflamed mucous membranes.
• Reduced secretion: Supports the removal of nasal secretions.

Allergy sprays contain special ingredients that block the release of histamine. They therefore protect against allergic reactions.

They are easy to use: a targeted spray system allows the active ingredients to be applied directly to the nasal mucosa. The effect often occurs just minutes after application, providing rapid relief.

Some nasal sprays also contain nourishing dexpanthenol to support dry nasal mucous membranes. Nasal sprays should not be used over a longer period of time without consulting a doctor in order to avoid side effects.

Ingredients in nasal sprays

Areas of application: Common cold, allergies and more

Nasal sprays are versatile and can be used for various complaints. Here are some common areas of application:

1. Runny nose: Nasal sprays with xylometazoline or oxymetazoline constrict the blood vessels. This leads to a reduction in swelling of the mucous membranes and makes breathing easier.
2. Allergies: For allergic rhinitis sprays containing antihistamines or cortisone can help. These reduce the allergic reaction and relieve inflammation in the nasal mucosa.
3. Dry nasal mucosa: Isotonic solutions with sea salt moisturize the mucous membranes and thin the mucus, even if they do not have a decongestant effect.
4. Chronic colds and sinusitis: Nasal sprays support the healing process and can be helpful for inflammatory diseases of the respiratory tract.
5. Hay fever: Cortisone-containing nasal sprays are effective against hay fever. They have an anti-inflammatory effect and provide rapid relief.

Nasal sprays offer a simple solution for various nasal problems and can make breathing easier.

Choosing the right nasal spraysTips for consumers

Nasal sprays are a practical solution for nasal congestion. They are particularly helpful for colds and allergies. colds. They can quickly help you breathe freely. But when choosing the right nasal spray there are a few points to bear in mind:

1. Check the active ingredients: Pay attention to the ingredients. α 1-Sympathomimetics often have a decongestant effect, but do not help everyone.
2. Note the duration of use: A decongestant nasal spray should not be used for longer than seven days to avoid side effects.
3. Read the package leaflet: Follow the instructions for dosage and application.
4. Consider side effects: Be aware of possible side effects of the various ingredients. If you are unsure, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Nasal sprays should be chosen carefully in order to achieve the best possible effect and treat swollen mucous membranes effectively.

Decongestants nasal spraysAdvantages and risks

Advantages:

• Contains active ingredients such as xylometazoline and oxymetazoline.
• They work by contracting blood vessels in the nasal mucosa.
• Provide rapid relief from nasal congestion.
• Improve breathing for six to seven hours.
• Promote ventilation of the sinuses.
• Prevent bacterial infections.

Risks:

• Prolonged use can cause damage to the nasal mucosa.
• Possibility of addiction.
• In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
• Chemical side effects include irritation of the respiratory tract and nervous system.
• Cardiovascular problems and dry nasal mucosa may occur.
• Overuse increases nasal congestion after the effect has worn off.

Table: Advantages and disadvantages

Decongestant nasal sprays should be used with caution and according to instructions to avoid side effects.

Saline nasal spraysNatural relief

Saline nasal sprays offer a gentle alternative to chemicals for colds. They use special mineral salts to gently cleanse, moisturize and decongest the nasal mucosa. A well-known example is the Emser nasal spray. Thanks to its weak alkaline solution of natural Emser salt, it promotes the healing processes of upper respiratory tract infections. It does this by dissolving mucus and combating inflammation.

Advantages saline nasal sprays:

• Natural ingredientsCan be used for longer without habituation effect.
• Gentle cleansing: Helps to regenerate the nasal mucosa.
• Decongestant effect: Supports freer breathing with colds.

Another product is the Bepanthen® seawater nasal spray. It supports the nasal mucosa with moisturizing and cleansing properties.

Hypertonic seawater solutions, such as Sinomarin Mini Spray, are suitable for children aged 6 months and over. These also have a decongestant and cleansing effect.

Summary:

Saline nasal sprays are versatile aids for the treatment of colds. They offer natural relief without negative effects.

Nasal spray for children: what parents should look out for

Nasal sprays are helpful for acute and allergic rhinitis. However, there are a few things to bear in mind when using them on children.

For children over 6 years:

• They may use the same dosage as adults.
• The nasal spray should not be used for longer than one week.

Children between 2 and 6 years:

• Use specially adapted nasal sprays with a lower dosage, such as Olynth K 0.05 %.

Infants under one year of age:

• If without medical consultation no nasal spray without consulting a doctor to avoid risks.

Tips for parents:

• Limit the use: No longer than seven days in a row.
• Choose the right product: Make sure you use the right dosage.
• Be aware of allergies: Make sure that there are no intolerances to the active substance.

For pregnant women:

• Use in the normal dosage is usually safe, but for no longer than one week.

Nasal sprays can provide effective relief for swollen mucous membranes, but correct use is crucial to avoid side effects.

Chronic dry nasal mucous membranes: special products

Chronically dry nasal mucous membranes can be exacerbated by dry air from air conditioning and heating systems. The optimum level of humidity is around 60 percent, but this often drops to as low as 45 percent.

The following products and solutions can help with care:

1. Seawater nasal spraysThese, such as those from apotheke.at, offer long-term moisturization for dry nasal mucous membranes and have been confirmed in studies to be highly effective.
2. Dexpanthenol spraysAqueous preparations with dexpanthenol have a moisturizing effect and promote the healing and regeneration of the nasal mucous membranes.
3. Saline solutions:
4. • Isotonic solutionsHelps to moisturize and cleanse the nasal mucosa.
   • Hypertonic solutionsDraw out excess water and reduce swelling.

An exemplary product is the Aspecton® nasal spray. It supports with acute colds, allergic rhinitis and soothed dry nasal mucous membranes with an artificial indoor climate. Many of these nasal sprays have a shelf life of months and contain purified seawater or salts to soothe irritated and swollen nasal mucous membranes. Use these products to breathe more freely and to treat chronically dry nasal mucous membranes.

Side effects of nasal spraysWhat you should know

Decongestant nasal sprays with xylometazoline or oxymetazoline are popular for the treatment of colds. However, they can have side effects that should not be ignored.

Common side effects:

• Irritation symptomsBurning and dry nasal mucosa in sensitive people.
• DependenceFrequent use over a long period of time can lead to nasal spray dependence.

Long-term risks:

After the effect has worn off, the nose may appear more congested. This often leads to those affected reaching for the spray again. This habit can lead to long-term chronic rhinitis lead. This reduces the effectiveness and it becomes more difficult to clear the nose permanently.

Further risks with overuse:

Moderate and conscious use of the sprays is important to avoid these side effects. A doctor or pharmacist should always be consulted if use is unsafe.

Avoid dependence: Correct use

Avoid dependence: Correct use of nasal spray

To avoid dependence on nasal spray it is crucial to adhere to the dosage instructions. Users should not apply the spray more than two to three times a day per nostril and should not use it for longer than seven days.

Tips for use:

• Use the spray in one nostril only to gradually reduce the dose.
• Gradually stop using the spray to give the nose time to recover naturally.

Dangers of prolonged use:

The decongestant effect of chemical nasal sprays decreases with prolonged use. This can lead to a habituation effect, which increases the frequency of use. To avoid the risk of drug-induced rhinitis, decongestant nasal sprays should not be used for longer than the recommended duration.

Follow these guidelines to preserve the health of your nasal mucosa and avoid addiction.

Storage and shelf life: How to keep nasal sprays effective

In order to increase the effectiveness of nasal sprays they should be stored at temperatures below 25°C. Proper storage ensures that the spray can be used for up to 6 months after opening.

Important points for storage:

• Store below 25°C
• Out of the reach of children
• Do not use for longer than 7 days at a time

Decongestant nasal sprayssuch as those containing xylometazoline, work quickly and effectively. However, prolonged use can be addictive and damage the nasal mucosa.

Tips for use:

1. Use for a maximum of 7 days
2. Ensure correct storage
3. Choose nourishing ingredients for dry nasal mucosa

Follow these basic rules to minimize health risks and protect the nasal sprays effectively.

Expert opinions: Recommendations from doctors

Dr. Christine Löber and Dr. Sylvia Brockhaus are specialists in ear, nose and throat medicine. They offer specialized diagnoses and treatments for colds and similar illnesses. Prof. Dr. Christian Betz heads a clinic at the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf. He deals with advanced therapeutic approaches for diseases of the nasal mucous membranes.

Simone Kolberg, pharmacist in Blankenese, advises patients on over-the-counter nasal sprays. She points out how to use them correctly.

Recommendations:

• When to see a doctor?
  If symptoms persist, consult a doctor to clarify allergic causes.
• Choice of nasal spray:
• • Coordination with specific symptoms
  • Note side effects
  • Read instructions for use

Table: Important points

Experts emphasize how crucial the coordination of the nasal spray to individual needs is crucial.

Alternative treatment methods: Home remedies for colds

For cold isotonic saline solutions can help to moisturize and cleanse the nasal mucosa. They loosen stuck mucus without being addictive. Herbal lozenges and drops consisting of various herbs also support the treatment of colds through their healing effect.

Natural mineral salt nasal sprays can be used indefinitely. They are well suited for treating colds as they do not have a habituation effect. Emser nasal drops, which are 100% natural, are ideal for babies with blocked noses as they loosen the mucus.

Advantages of home remedies:

• No dependency
• Natural ingredients
• Long-term use possible

Decongestant nasal sprays with cortisone can be used for inflammatory diseases such as sinusitis or allergic rhinitis can help. They provide quick relief for swollen mucous membranes.

These home remedies and alternative treatments offer effective options for relieving colds and should be considered if necessary.

Conclusion: The right way to deal with nasal sprays

Nasal sprays are helpful when the nose is blocked. They improve breathing and prevent mouth breathing, which can cause health problems. Most contain decongestants. These relieve swollen mucous membranes and reduce symptoms such as sneezing.

When using nasal sprays the following should be considered:

• Type of nasal sprayThere are different types, such as decongestant sprays or those with nourishing dexpanthenol.
• Use: Nasal sprays provide valuable support in the treatment of colds and allergies.
• EffectHypertonic sea salt solutions remove excess water and have a gentle decongestant effect.

Decongestant nasal sprays provide relief from allergies, colds and sinusitis. When used correctly, they quickly relieve discomfort and care for stressed mucous membranes.

Source: istockphoto ozgurcankaya