Vasoconstrictor medications can cause abnormal heart rhythms and should not be taken by people with arrhythmias. Svetlana Marnova, an otolaryngologist at the DocMed Clinic, told socialbites.ca.
Vasoconstrictor drugs in the form of drops or sprays relieve congestion by relieving swelling of the nasal mucosa. They use different ingredients as active ingredients, but they all have many contraindications.
“Drugs to narrow the blood vessels in the nose cannot be used in cases of glaucoma, atrophic rhinitis, pheochromocytoma, MAO inhibitors (used in the treatment of depression, Parkinson’s disease and narcolepsy) and after brain surgery. Also, vasoconstrictors can cause heart rhythm disturbances, so people with arrhythmias are better not to take risks and refuse to use them,” Marnova explained.
However, healthy people should not abuse vasoconstrictor drugs: they can cause allergies, headaches, blurred vision, convulsions, respiratory depression and bradycardia (heart rate dropping below 60 beats per minute). There is also a risk of developing dependence on vasoconstrictors, where the person is forced to constantly use these drugs in order to breathe freely.
“All vasoconstrictor drugs are addictive. There is no absolutely safe period for their use, but the maximum period is five days. They can only be used in case of severe congestion, without exceeding the number of doses specified in the instructions,” said Marnova.
These drugs are not recommended for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding and in young children. In addition, the form of the drug is also important: it is better to use a spray rather than drops, which reduces the risk of overdose.
The otolaryngologist recommended that if you have nasal congestion, you should try medications containing a highly saline solution – hypertonic solutions, which can be purchased at pharmacies. The doctor concluded that if there is no effect, you can use vasoconstrictors, but strictly follow the instructions, taking into account possible side effects and contraindications.
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