ATTENTION

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call 988 for 24/7 free and confidential crisis support. You do not have to be suicidal to call. Access more info and resources on suicide prevention, emotional and mental health support. 
toggle mobile menu Menu
toggle search menu

Site Navigation

Supplemental

Menu

Rebound congestion

Top of the page

Rebound congestion

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

Some examples of nasal spray decongestants are oxymetazoline (such as Afrin or Zicam Extreme Congestion Relief) and phenylephrine (such as Neo-Synephrine).

Rebound congestion can develop from using a nasal decongestant more times in one day or more days than the label says. As the medicine wears 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.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Healthwise is a URAC accredited health web site content provider. Privacy Policy. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

To learn more, visit Healthwise.org

© 1995- Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

Take Care, Someone Needs You.

You take care of others, so take care of yourself. Let us be your partner in health, whether you're recovering from an injury, checking in for your annual exam, or enjoying an online class.

Because when you take care of yourself, everyone around you benefits.

Connect with Us
Contact Us In Boise (208) 381-2222