Two new aerosol based nasal steroids have emerged and may be ordered by your health provider. QNASL became available earlier this year. Kathi MacNaughton  gave an incisive report on QNASL months ago. ZETONNA was recently released by Sunovion Pharmaceuticals in recent weeks. QNASL and Zetonna are the first available (in the U.S.), aerosol nasal sprays since the ban on CFC (chlorofluorocarbon- propellant) containing inhalers and nasal sprays.

 People annoyed by the several minutes of drainage down the back of the throat, associated with taking the water based nasal sprays (practically all prescription allergy nasal spray available prior to these are water based) may appreciate the new dryer aerosols. One drawback is the force of the spray as it jets up the nasal passage, which may already be sensitive due to inflammation. The most reported side effects of both nasal sprays are: nasal discomfort, headache and nose bleeding. They are indicated for seasonal and year round nasal allergy symptoms in adults and children who are 12 years or older.

Anyone who is missing nights of sleep, missing work or school or suffering from rhinitis complications which include recurring sinus infections, ear infections, cough or poor asthma control should see an allergy specialist. It is important to identify whether allergy triggers are part of the problem, how to avoid them, as well as how to avoid irritant triggers. It is essential to be advised in how to best utilize medication. When this approach fails other alternatives, for example allergy shots, or procedures done by an ENT specialist may be of help.

This has been a particularly bad year for a lot of people. Are you one of them?

What adjustment has been most helpful for you?