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Steroid Nasal Sprays
Conditions treated with steroid nasal spraysSteroid nasal sprays are primarily prescribed to treat one of two related conditions: Rhinitis. An inflammation of the nasal mucous membranes that may be caused by allergies, infection or irritation. Sinusitis. An inflammation and infection of the mucous membranes lining the sinuses that may be caused by allergies, infection or irritation. Decreased sense of smell. Swelling high up in the nose due to allergic rhinitis or other conditions can prevent odors from reaching the nerves that detect smells. Steroid nasal sprays can reduce the inflammation, improving the patient’s sense of smell. Nasal polyps. Bag–like collections of fluid in the nasal membranes that develop as a result of allergic rhinitis or other conditions. Steroid nasal sprays can help shrink nasal polyps and prevent polyps from returning. Conditions of concern with steroid nasal spraysNasal corticosteroids may have adverse effects in patients with the following medical problems: Asthma. A condition in which the airways become blocked or narrowed, causing shortness of breath and breathing difficulties. Steroid nasal sprays can worsen this condition. Amebiasis. An infection or disease caused by amoebas. Steroid nasal sprays can worsen this condition. Diabetes mellitus (sugar diabetes). Dexamethasone may decrease carbohydrate tolerance, worsening blood glucose control and requiring higher doses of insulin. Glaucoma. An ocular disease in which pressure increases within the eyeball, eventually leading to vision impairment. Long–term use can worsen glaucoma by increasing pressure within the eye. Herpes simplex (virus) infection of the eye. Steroid nasal sprays may mask signs of this condition. Viral, bacterial and fungal infections. Steroid nasal sprays may mask signs of this condition. Nasal injury, sores or post–surgery condition. Steroid nasal sprays may prevent proper healing of these conditions. Heart conditions. Dexamethasone may worsen some heart–related conditions. Liver disease, tuberculosis and underactive thyroid. Steroid nasal sprays may exacerbate these conditions. Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid gland). Dexamethasone may worsen some this condition in which too little thyroid hormone circulates in the blood.
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