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Steroid nasal sprays are primarily prescribed to treat one of two related conditions:

• Rhinitis. An inflammation of the nasal mucous membranes that may be caused by allergies, infection or irritation.

  

• Sinusitis. An inflammation and infection of the mucous membranes lining the sinuses that may be caused by allergies, infection or irritation.

Other conditions commonly treated with steroid nasal sprays include:

• Decreased sense of smell. Swelling high up in the nose due to allergic rhinitis or other conditions can prevent odors from reaching the nerves that detect smells. Steroid nasal sprays can reduce the inflammation, improving the patient’s sense of smell.
  
  
• Nasal polyps. Bag-like collections of fluid in the nasal membranes that develop as a result of allergic rhinitis or other conditions. Steroid nasal sprays can help shrink nasal polyps and prevent polyps from returning.