"Miracle Drug" Relieves Nasal Congestion? Beware Rebound!

Rhinitis, a stubborn recurrent disease,
often lulls patients into complacency
and a habit of "self-treatment."
Many turn to online "miracle drugs" promising instant relief.
While nasal congestion vanishes quickly,
they unknowingly fall into the trap of rhinitis medicamentosa.

01
What Is Rhinitis Medicamentosa?
Rhinitis medicamentosa, also called rebound rhinitis or toxic rhinitis, is a type of chronic rhinitis. Key symptoms include persistent bilateral nasal congestion and dryness.

02
How Does It Develop?
Prolonged misuse of vasoconstrictors—often marketed as "miracle drugs"—is the primary cause. Eager to relieve congestion, many patients self-prescribe these without medical guidance.

Vasoconstrictors temporarily shrink blood vessels, reducing mucosal swelling and briefly easing congestion. However, they fail to address the root cause. Standard protocols limit use to one week under medical supervision.

Yet patients often become dependent after experiencing temporary relief. When the drug wears off, congestion rebounds worse, creating a vicious cycle that triggers rhinitis medicamentosa.

03
How Is It Treated?
Immediate discontinuation
Stop vasoconstrictors immediately and seek evaluation from a qualified ENT specialist.

Alternative therapies
Use nasal corticosteroids or nasal antihistamines to reduce inflammation and restore mucosal function.

Physical therapy
Renshu’s "triple-action" therapy combines nasal irrigation, nebulization, and laser treatment to alleviate symptoms.

Surgery
Surgery may be needed if conservative treatments fail, especially for patients with structural issues (e.g., severe septal deviation, irreversible turbinate hypertrophy).

04
Daily Management Tips
Maintain humidity
Use a humidifier in dry environments to moisten nasal passages and thin mucus. Clean humidifiers regularly to prevent bacterial growth.

Stay hydrated
Drink plenty of water to thin secretions. Avoid excessive caffeine, which dehydrates.

Nasal irrigation
Rinse daily with saline to clear mucus and reduce mucosal swelling.

Medication is no game.
Never self-prescribe for rhinitis. Seek professional ENT care for proper diagnosis and treatment under medical guidance.