Otolarynologist Shares his Insights on Various Nasal Sprays
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(HealthNewsDigest.com) – This year’s allergy season has been particularly detrimental and many are still feeling the lingering effects of excessive pollen counts. One popular way to combat allergens is through the use of nasal sprays. They often provide immediate and effective relief, but with so many varieties on the market how do allergy sufferers know the right choice for their symptoms?
Board-certified Otolarynologist Dr. Jordan Pritikin at Chicago Nasal & Sinus Center shares his insights on the nasal spray spectrum to help consumers navigate the allergy aisle. “Each type of spray is designed to treat allergy symptoms a little differently so it’s good to have a solid knowledge before meeting with your doctor or buying over-the-counter medications,” says Dr. Pritikin.
Dr. Pritikin provides a rundown of nasal sprays for allergies below:
– Steroid: A common treatment when it comes to treating allergy ailments, steroid sprays help deliver the medicine straight to the source. The medicine works to decrease allergic inflammation within the nasal passages and typically treat common allergy symptoms, including sneezing, itchy nose, runny nose, nasal drip and congestion. Common nasal steroid sprays include Flonase, Nasonex and Nasarel.
– Saline: Saline nasal sprays are similar to steroids in the sense that they work towards unobstructed sinus cavities, but saline sprays use a more natural approach. Saline nasal sprays help liquefy secretions and can also restore moisture to the nasal passages to reduce the inflammation. These sprays contain no drugs and can be purchased over-the-counter. In addition, Neti pots use a similar technique with saline and water to clear sinuses.
– Antihistamines: Excessive histamine production is the primary cause of allergic reactions for individuals, and antihistamines work to block the production of histamines. Antihistamine nasal sprays help relieve sneezing, itchy or runny nose, sinus congestion and postnasal drip, common prescription sprays include Astelin, Astepro and Patanase.
– Compounded: Dr. Pritikin often suggests using custom-order compounded nasal sprays when commercially available prescription nasal sprays (e.g. Flonase, Nasonex) are not effective. Compounding allows physicians to customize the ingredients to address a particular patient’s problem.
About Dr. Jordan Pritikin
Dr. Jordan Pritikin is a board-certified otolaryngologist at Chicago Nasal & Sinus Center, a private medical practice devoted to the diagnosis and treatment of nasal and sinus disorders. Dr. Pritikin is a Fellow of theAmerican Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery and attended Rush Medical College inChicago, where he was selected to the Alpha Omega Alpha Honors Medical Society. Over the years, Dr. Pritikin has cultivated an interest in Rhinology, focusing his practice on diseases of the nose and sinuses, and has participated in clinical research exploring innovative therapies for chronic sinusitis. He has lectured at local and national meetings, developed informational and training videos demonstrating surgical techniques for the nose and sinuses, and has helped develop and refine instruments designed for sinus surgery. Dr. Pritikin and the Chicago Nasal & Sinus Center offer patients an unparalleled level of service, utilizing state-of-the art technology and innovative treatments while maintaining a thoughtful and caring approach. For more information visit http://www.
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