I've had chronic congestion for some years now. Any time I lie flat my nose fills up solid within minutes, so I have to sleep on a wedge. This week I reminded my doctor of this, and that OTC decongestants aren't very effective anymore. He prescribed fluticasone propionate nasal spray (Flonase®, Flovent®). He explained this is a topical corticosteroid. I asked about longterm use, and he said he has patients who've been on it for years.

This is likely the middle of another sojourn; I've met other people who experience congestion when lying flat, but no-one seems to have any answers/reasons why this should/would just come on suddenly in middle age. Other possibilities we discussed include an allergist and/or ENT, but in the meantime, I've still gotta breathe. I've become rather fond of breathing.

The inquiry here is about the fluticasone spray. I've read the insert, the MedlinePlus & Wiki pages, and checked the archives. There's a fair chance (greater than 1:10) this won't work due to side effects. Any other experience, wisdom, etc.?

Doc