Nasal spray addiction is probably more common than many people are aware. When you have a cold or your sinuses are bothering you, there’s nothing quite like the relief of using nose spray to clear those congested noses right up. But if you’re not careful, you can become addicted to the spray very easily. When this happens, your nasal passages will swell and you’ll feel even more stopped up, which will naturally cause you to want to grab the squirt bottle again for your next fix.
Breathe Right
The best non-medicated cure of all for fighting nasal spray addiction is Breathe Right. Breathe Right strips, worn across the lower part of your nose (similar to what you’ll see sometimes on football players), help to open the nasal passages from the outside.
According to BreatheRight.com, "When you have a cold or the flu, try Breathe Right® nasal strips to get fast, effective nasal congestion relief. They gently open nasal passages to give your nose more breathing room naturally. Breathe Right nasal strips use patented reflex technology to gently lift your nasal passages, allowing you to breathe easier."
As they are best worn at night, they can also help to provide snoring relief. Read more on the Breathe Right website about the different types of strips and other products available. They even have mentholated strips to help those struggling with allergies.
Saline Spray
Nasal saline spray is another great option when you’re trying to kick the nose spray habit. It is available as spray or drops and is gentle enough to use as often as needed. Saline sprays are non-medicated (check label to be sure), so there are no worries of forming a new addiction.
When first using the spray/mist, it might be necessary to spray a couple more times than usual, then wait for it to kick in. It isn’t as strong as what you’re used to, and it won’t last as long, but it does work. Ayr, pictured above, is a good one to try and can be purchased at most drug stores. Simply Saline has good reviews as well.
If you start using the spray immediately and the Breathe Right strips nightly (they can also be used together), you should begin to feel a difference within 1-2 weeks.
Other options to consider: Steam bath/shower, nasal irrigation, Mentholatum or Vicks VapoRub on chest.