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Rebound Congestion

Rebound congestion is a constant nasal stuffiness (congestion) that develops from the overuse of decongestant medicine sprays. This type of congestion occurs even when a person is not experiencing allergies or other coldlike symptoms.

Rebound congestion can develop from using nasal decongestant sprays frequently for 3 or more days. As decongestant sprays wear off, sinus membranes swell, causing congestion, and a person may respond by using a higher dose of decongestant. If the cycle continues, a person builds up a tolerance by using larger and larger doses until congestion occurs whenever the person does not take the medication.

Rebound congestion can lead to addiction to decongestant nasal sprays.

Last Revised: August 3, 2010

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine & Donald R. Mintz, MD - Otolaryngology

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