Rhinitis medicamentosa: the forgotten factor in nasal obstruction

Abstract

Rebound nasal mucosal edema may follow the use of topical nasal vasoconstrictors for even a short time. The physician seeing a patient with nasal stuffiness should always ask about the usage of these substances. Management of patients with rhinitis medicamentosa includes making the diagnosis, reversing the mucosal changes, patient education, and appropriate follow-up. Systemic medications such as antihypertensives, beta-blockers, and antidepressants may also cause nasal stuffiness, which should resolve upon withdrawal of the offending substance.