The potential impact of intranasal medications on the accuracy of COVID-19 tests, particularly rapid antigen tests and PCR tests, is a relevant concern for both patients and healthcare providers. For example, decongestant sprays might alter the nasal mucosa, potentially interfering with sample collection or the test’s ability to detect viral antigens or genetic material.
Understanding how various nasal sprays might influence test outcomes is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective disease management. This knowledge empowers individuals to make informed decisions about medication use prior to testing and allows healthcare professionals to interpret results accurately. Historically, similar concerns have arisen with other diagnostic tests involving nasal samples, highlighting the importance of investigating such interactions.
