I have posted before about constipation but today's gripe is about nasal stuffiness. I understand from my Oncologist that the lining of your nose is affected by chemo. As I am on blood thinners I tend to blow my nose very gently or hardly at all. I use a wash spray which helps clear clots but I have to be careful. For some reason it has been worse this last week and I'm up early today, again!, because I cant get back to sleep bunged up. Anyone else have this problem or any new solutions. Hope everybody is doing well and keeping their spirits up as best they can.
Hi LB230,
I have suffered from stuffy nose for years as I'm allergic to a range of things dust mites, mould etc. 20 years ago my GP gave me a nasal spray to stop post nasal drip, coughing etc which works well and I was taking that through chemo and since. I never thought any additional stuffiness was because of the chemo but it worked for me.
The medical name is fluticasone propionate, current brand name Nasofan Aqueous 50 microgram Nasal Spray. Chemists sell it for hay-fever relief but I get it on prescription and take 1 or 2 sprays each side daily.
If I get flu I put some drops of Olbas oil on my pillow or a tissue which helps with stuffiness. You can also put it in boiling water and inhale it under a towel.
I'm also on blood thinners, Apixaban, though have had to inject in the past. I have never found that nose bleeds last very long even during chemo though I used to worry they would.
Hope this helps.
Latestart
Whatever cancer throws your way, we’re right there with you.
We’re here to provide physical, financial and emotional support.
© Macmillan Cancer Support 2025 © Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604). Also operating in Northern Ireland. A company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales company number 2400969. Isle of Man company number 4694F. Registered office: 3rd Floor, Bronze Building, The Forge, 105 Sumner Street, London, SE1 9HZ. VAT no: 668265007