Patanase question

My 3 year old has tree, grass, and weed pollen allergies.  We were on nasonex and zyrtec for two months with little help and then switched to patanase.  He has been using it for two weeks now and it has been great.  The last two days he has had minimal nosebleed from one nostril that looks dark red.  Can we continue patanase?

[David Tinkelman, M.D.]

These medications, while effective in controlling allergy symptoms, can cause irritation and nosebleeds, on occasion.  It is best to stop the Patanase for a few days to let the wall of the nasal passage heal.  You might consider using a Saline Solution nasal spray for a few days just to help in the healing process.  Because this nose bleed occurred does not mean you cannot use the Patanase again in the future once the lining of the nose heals.