The best nasal spray for allergies will depend on your symptoms.

Always check with your healthcare provider first, especially if you are pregnant or nursing.

What works for one person may not work for another.

woman using nasal spray

SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY/getty images

They do this by constricting the blood vessels in your nose, reducing swelling and thus congestion.

Steroid Nasal Sprays

Some steroid nasal sprays are only available with a prescription.

However, many others can be bought OTC and are often the first treatment used to address allergies.

They can reduce nasal inflammation and congestion as well as help with runny nose and sneezing.

Brands of these sprays include Simply Saline, Xlear, and Ayr.

Mast cell inhibitor sprays are available without a prescription.

Nasal sprays are safe when used appropriately and as directed.

Are Nasal Sprays Addictive?

Nasal sprays don’t produce cravings or highs and are notaddictivebased on the clinical definition.

That said, it is possible to misuse them.

If you do not have any relief after using it as stated, talk with your healthcare provider.

Other alternatives to treat your allergies include oral medications like antihistamines, decongestants, and corticosteroids.

Talk with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and which nasal spray might be best for you.

American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology.Allergies overview.

The American Academy of Otolaryngic Allergy.You want me to spray what up my nose?

Understanding the different types of nasal sprays.

Medline Plus.Cromolyn sodium nasal solution.

FHE Health.Afrin & other nasal spray addiction.

US Food & Drug Administration.FDA warns that abuse and misuse of the nasal decongestant propylhexedrine causes serious harm.