Nasal Drops: Effect, Uses & Risks

Nasal drops have a decongestant effect and are used primarily for colds and allergies that cause the airways to swell and thus make breathing difficult. Nasal drops, like nasal spray, are intended to provide relief. In addition, however, they often also support the healing of irritated and irritated mucous membranes.

What are nose drops?

In addition to nasal spray, nasal drops are often used for colds and allergies. They are provided with various active ingredients, which in most cases have a decongestant and soothing effect. There are quite a few possible reasons that make it difficult for us to breathe due to unpleasant swelling in the sinuses. However, the two most common causes are colds and allergies. Here, in addition to nasal spray, nasal drops are often used to provide relief. They contain various active ingredients, which in most cases have a decongestant and soothing effect. In this way, they ensure that the affected person can breathe deeply again. In addition, the drops help through various ingredients that the mucous membranes are protected and soothed. These are usually very much affected by the cold and allergy processes, which can be aggravated by blowing the nose as well as by too frequent use of the nose drops. By the way, unlike nasal spray, nasal drops are not “pumped” into the nose, but are usually instilled into the nose using a pipette.

Nose drops for colds and nasal congestion.

Nasal drops have different types and modes of action, which are, on the one hand, directed to the possible case of complaint that may be present. On the other hand, nasal drops are also distinguished by their composition and concentration. In most cases, a type of nasal drop is selected that is suitable for the present case of complaint, ideally with the help of medical or pharmaceutical advice (e.g. from a trusted pharmacist). Depending on the age of the patient and the concentration of the agent, the nasal drops can be used on average in a dosage of about three drops per nostril three to four times a day. Of course, it is essential to follow the product’s own instructions for use, which are included with all nasal drops. Overarching, however, is medically recommended that one should not use nasal drops permanently or over a long period of time.

Herbal, natural and pharmaceutical nasal drops.

Nasal drops are available in many different types. However, nasal drops are divided into five different types, four of which are considered pharmaceuticals. These include all chemical agents that have a decongestant effect, as well as agents that contain cortisone, antihistamine or cromoglicic acid. The fifth type of nasal drops includes all natural, homeopathic, and herbal compositions, such as drops made from and containing seawater, herbal blends, and essential oils. The difference between natural and chemical remedies is that natural compositions are less aggressive or are intended to care for and heal affected mucous membranes. Sea water drops, for example, exhibit the main effect of keeping mucous membranes moist and supporting rapid healing when they are irritated, dry and cracked. However, mixtures with herbs such as thyme or with essential oils can also gently provide easier breathing for swollen mucous membranes. Nevertheless, these have only a very limited decongestant effect. Therefore, in the case of severe symptoms, chemical-pharmaceutical remedies must often be used. However, there are now also drops that include natural ingredients in the formulations to make the effect more gentle. Likewise, there are gently dosed drops for children, allergy sufferers and sensitive people.

Risks and side effects

As pleasant and relieving as the use of nasal drops may be when complaining, when used for a long time, they attack the mucous membranes of the body. Therefore, it is recommended that nasal drops should not be used for more than a maximum of ten days at a time, even in a severe case of illness or allergy. Moreover, in case of additional complaints such as severely attacked and irritated mucous membranes, one should stop using them immediately and consult a doctor.Likewise, combinations of different remedies should be discussed with the doctor or pharmacist, even if they are natural remedies or nasal ointments. Because also unwanted interactions can represent a risk that should not be underestimated.