"Treating Rhinitis with Nasal Insertion of Medicated Balls: Does It Work?"

Nasal Allergy Balls

Nasal allergy balls typically refer to the medication balls used by patients suffering from nasal allergies. The primary constituent of these balls is hypertonic seawater, commonly utilized in the treatment of various types of nasal allergies such as dry rhinitis, atrophic rhinitis, and allergic rhinitis. It is advisable for patients to use these nasal allergy balls under the guidance of a healthcare professional to avoid any adverse reactions.

1. Dry Rhinitis

Due to factors like dry climate and environment, the nasal mucosa can be damaged, leading to rapid evaporation of moisture within the nasal cavity and the development of dry rhinitis. Symptoms include congestion, dryness, and a foreign body sensation in the nasal mucosa. The hypertonic seawater in nasal allergy balls forms a fluid within the nasal cavity, promoting the secretion of moisture in the nasal mucosa, thereby improving dryness and alleviating symptoms.

2. Atrophic Rhinitis

Caused by bacterial infections, endocrine disorders, and other factors, atrophic rhinitis is characterized by symptoms like scabbing and dryness in the nasal mucosa. The ephedrine hydrochloride component in nasal allergy balls can contract vascular smooth muscles, improving atrophy symptoms and playing a role in the treatment of atrophic rhinitis.

3. Allergic Rhinitis

Patients with allergic rhinitis, triggered by exposure to allergens, typically experience symptoms like nasal itching, sneezing, and runny nose. Allergen stimulation causes congestion and edema in the nasal mucosa. The saline in the balls acts as a diluent, alleviating the symptoms caused by allergen stimulation and offering a degree of effectiveness in treating allergic rhinitis.

4. Other Types

Apart from the aforementioned types, nasal allergy balls can also be used for conditions like hypertrophic rhinitis and simple rhinitis. Hypertrophic rhinitis, usually caused by long-term inflammatory stimulation, leads to thickening of the nasal mucosa. The strong irritant nature of the balls can stimulate the enlarged nasal mucosa, exacerbating discomfort. Meanwhile, simple rhinitis, primarily caused by nutritional deficiencies or environmental stimuli, generally does not respond significantly to treatment with nasal allergy balls.

Patients should observe for any adverse reactions when using nasal allergy balls and promptly discontinue use if any occur. Additionally, it is recommended to maintain a light diet, avoiding spicy and irritating foods.