The Pocket-Sized Relief: What You Need to Know About Nasal Inhalers

A small, handy tube, roughly the size of a regular lipstick, has become a familiar object, nationwide. It’s common to see it in the hands of people from all walks of life – students, teachers, office workers, security guards, sidewalk vendors, commuters – you name it! Chances are, you have one in your pocket or bag, too. It’s none other than the nasal inhaler.

Though it’s not a new product, the popularity of inhaler sticks has skyrocketed. Local inhalers are readily available in drugstores, convenience stores, department stores, and mall kiosks. And thanks to the beloved Filipino tradition known as pasalubong, where Filipino travelers bring home gifts for family and friends, Thai nasal inhalers have become a favorite souvenir.

A typical nasal inhaler is designed with a removable cap that allows you to easily detach it, enabling you to place the inhaler close to your nostril and take a deep breath. Newer models come in sliding cases, so you don’t have to worry about losing the cap. Aside from pocket inhalers, they also come in little tubs, which people like to hold up to their noses to sniff, providing a soothing aromatic blend.

Common Active Ingredients

These pocket nasal inhalers and little tubs may contain any or a combination of the following ingredients:

Menthol – It’s a white, waxy crystalline organic compound that is extracted from peppermint, corn mint, or other mint plants. Menthol is widely used in inhalers because of its soothing properties and cooling sensation.
Camphor – Camphor oil is extracted from the wood of camphor trees through steam distillation, giving off a cooling scent. At present, it is more common to produce camphor from turpentine oil. According to Healthline, camphor oil works as a decongestant and cough suppressant.
Methyl Salicylate – Also called oil of wintergreen, this colorless organic compound is used to provide soothing warmth for minor aches and pains.
Borneol – It can be extracted from Dryobalanops aromatica trees or produced synthetically. Borneol is a key ingredient of Thai nasal inhalers because of its soothing aroma, cooling sensation, and mild pain-relieving effects.
Other Ingredients – Some inhalers may contain essential oils such as eucalyptus oil, lavender, chamomile, or Siberian pine needle oil.

Benefits of Nasal Inhalers

Relieve Stuffy Nose – A globally-recognized brand of over-the-counter medications claims that inhaler nasal sticks provide fast and temporary relief from nasal decongestion. Menthol, a common ingredient in inhalers, does not clear congestion, but it gives off a cooling sensation that can make breathing easier. Inhalers can come in handy when you have a stuffy nose due to a cold, upper respiratory tract allergy, hay fever, or humid environments.
Reduce Stress – A study shows that aromatherapy using essential oils like lavender and chamomile extract can help reduce stress, depression, and anxiety. Nasal inhalers with these essential oils can help you feel more relaxed.
Promote Mental Clarity – The refreshing scent of menthol, camphor, and essential oils can give you a mental boost. A study cited by Healthline found that the aroma of peppermint essential oil improved memory and increased alertness.
Alleviate Minor Discomforts – Some people use nasal inhalers to temporarily ease discomfort, such as mild headaches caused by sinus pressure. The strong aroma and cooling sensation of menthol, camphor, and other essential oils can provide a soothing and distracting effect. It can shift your focus away from the discomfort and offer a brief but welcome sense of relief. An inhaler is sometimes used to assuage motion sickness, as the soothing scent can help settle the stomach and provide a sense of calm.
Ease and Convenience – Nasal inhalers are small, compact, and easy to carry, making them an ideal on-the-go relief. You can put it in your pocket or bag for easy access whenever and wherever it is needed. Some manufacturers designed nasal inhaler keychains, a useful accessory that you can conveniently bring with you anywhere.

Reminders and Precautions

Read Label Before Use – Take time to read the product label because it provides essential information for safe and effective use. Check the list of active ingredients, especially if you have sensitivities or allergies to specific compounds. The label may also include precautionary measures and potential side effects. Don’t forget to check the expiration date to ensure that the ingredients are still potent and safe.
Avoid Overuse – According to Healthline, instead of providing relief, the frequent or prolonged use of nasal inhalers can harm the delicate mucus lining of your nasal cavity. This condition is called rebound rhinitis or rhinitis medicamentosa, wherein the continued use of a nasal stick can make your symptoms worse.
Do Not Share Your Inhaler – Treat your nasal inhaler like a personal hygiene product. Since the inhaler makes direct contact with the nostrils, it can harbor bacteria and viruses. Do not share it with another person, not even with family members, to prevent spreading germs and infections.
Store Properly – Keep your nasal stick in a cool, dry place, and out of direct sunlight to maintain its efficacy. Return the cap or slide the case back after each use to keep it clean and prevent debris from contaminating the inhaler. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
Not Recommended For Children Below 6 Years Old – Nasal inhalers are generally intended for use by adults and children over the age of 6. The strong ingredients like menthol and camphor are not recommended for younger children because their smaller airways are more sensitive and can be easily irritated by the powerful aroma.
Allergic Reactions – Certain ingredients may cause local irritation or an allergic reaction. If you experience irritation or redness, discontinue use.
Consult a Doctor – Nasal inhalers are meant to provide temporary relief for minor symptoms such as nasal congestion. If your congestion or discomfort has not improved after several days or is getting worse, it’s recommended that you see your doctor. Your doctor can check if there is an underlying medical condition, such as a sinus infection, allergies, or other issues, and prescribe treatment.

Conclusion

The nasal inhaler, with key ingredients like menthol, camphor, and other essential oils, has become a handy and accessible tool for temporary relief from nasal congestion and minor discomfort. The use of a nasal inhaler can also give a much-needed mental boost, reduce stress, and create a soothing distraction from minor aches. Despite the popularity and benefits of nasal inhalers, it’s important to use them responsibly. Avoid overuse to prevent rebound congestion and never share your inhaler with another person to avoid the spread of germs or viruses. Most importantly, a nasal inhaler is meant to give temporary relief, not a cure. For persistent or severe symptoms, it’s recommended to seek advice from a healthcare professional, a process made more accessible through a reliable Healthcare Philippines.

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