Rebound congestion is a constant nasal stuffiness (congestion) that develops from the overuse of decongestant medication sprays. This type of congestion occurs even when a person is not experiencing allergies or other coldlike symptoms.
Rebound congestion can develop from using nasal decongestant sprays frequently for 3 or more days. As decongestant sprays wear off, sinus membranes swell, causing congestion, and a person may respond by using a higher dose of decongestant. If the cycle continues, a person builds up a tolerance by using larger and larger doses until congestion occurs whenever the person does not take the medication.
Rebound congestion can lead to addiction to decongestant nasal sprays.
Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
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