NOSE CONGESTION

[Hazel30]

Ever since I was pregnant 2.5 yrs ago I started to have severe nose congestions.  This started when I was 3 months pregnant.  My doctor said it was due to pregnancy and said not to do anything for it.  Well, I did and began using nasal spray (afrin) several times a day because I was so badly congested I couldnt sleep oro breath and was going insane.  I thought it would all end after having the baby. It did not.  I live with my nose spray.  Have it in all my bags and in the bedroom.  I use it several times a day still.  It gotten to a point where I think my smell isnt right anymore.  Sometimes its hard to even taste food. Im very dependant on the nasal spray.   I havent seen a doctor because I have way too much stuff going on in my life for over a year now with my Mom being dx with cancer iin 05.  Now Im ready to go see a doctor for my problem.  I cant live like this anymore.  My bigest fear is that I ruined my nose and will never be able to fix my problem.  My physician said to just stop for several weeks and eventualy I will be weaned off of it.  I cant stop though because I cannot have my nose congested, I will end up in a straigh jacket.  
Does anyone have any expirience with this and what could this be?
How is this treated?
Thank You

[ABJanes]

I have a condition called hypogammaglobulinenima and my IGA levels are almost non-existent. This is the part of the blood that protects the mucous linings of the lungs, sinuses and eyes. I found a very helpful piece of equipment that has reduced my sinus infections by 2/3's. Checkout HydroMed.com and review the info about the Hydro Pulse, which is a powered waterpick for the sinuses. I use a blend of kosher salt and baking soda in solution (1-2) times daily and use two sprays of Nasonex in each nostril in the AM and on occassion use NasalCrom (over the counter--Cromolyn Sodium Solution). I can breath, my sinuses are not blocked and my infection rate is way way down. It sure beat antibiotics and oral steroids. The first ime you use it the feeling is a bit intimidating. I first thought "Where is the water going, into my brain?" It takes 5+ seconds for the solution to find it's way through our complex sinus cavities. You will not believe the amount of material that comes out. The Dr. who invented this feels strong that clogged sinuses become infected and his system keeps them clean and free of germs. Try it you will not be sorry. Let me know how you make out.

[DaniFortier]

Good luck! Let me know how it works outs for you.

[Hazel30]

Ordered it, thanks so much.  I hope it works.

[DaniFortier]

My understanding is if you download the physician form and bring it to your doctor, your doctor can order it on your behalf at no cost to you.  I'm not sure if you've checked their website but all the information you need is there.  If for whatever reason, your dr didn't want to do this on your behalf, the cost is pretty reasonable anyway. This is their website in case you don't have it: www.nasalspray.com.

[Hazel30]

Wow thanks for the info.  Do you know is this covered by insurance.  Are doctors (ENT) offering this.
I cant wait to get rid of this, its horriable.

[DaniFortier]

Have you ever heard of the Rhinastat System?  I'm 9 months pregnant and have suffered from congestion for 2 months and I'm worried about the rebound effect afterwards.  I ordered the system last night as I've read alot about it. Maybe it's something you could consider as well.

[Jordy]

And this link is also very helpful that I just found:

http://health.howstuffworks.com/question546.htm

Regarding what you said about "not being able to have your nose congested" while you give up the sprays, I have to ask, why not?  It's not THAT big of a deal to let your nose be stuffed up for a time while you heal.  Give your nose a break, and let it go back to normal.

[Hazel30]

Thanks for the info, this is basicaly what my physician said except the fact that I litteraly cant live without the nasal spray.  I cant even discribe the type of a congestion I have without it.  Doesnt even compare to a cold or flu type symptomps.  I get so congested my ear pop and I feel short of breath and feel like Im about to sufficate.  Its horrible and Im tired of it.  Im gonna see an ENT and see if I can get some steroid spary to wean me off of this nasal spray.  
Thanks again

[Jordy]

Sounds like you developed a tolerance to Afrin and some rebound congestion thrown in for good measure!  Did the doctor tell you to take it?  That would be odd; doctors are usually against the use of OTC nasal sprays for that very reason.  It's called "rebound congestion" and basically what happened was as a result of the medicine shrinking them the turbinates kind of "fought back" and now have overgrown. You will likely need to at least try a prescription nasal spray, NO MORE AFRIN!!!!  YOU WILL ONLY MAKE IT WORSE!!!  Do as your doctor said.  Give it a few weeks.  If you don't feel any improvement, got to an ENT for a full workup.  Good "rebound congestion" and you'll get a lot of information.  Here's one very helpful link I just found:

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/nasal-spray-addiction/AN01241