What is a significant warning associated with prolonged use of intranasal steroids?

The significant warning associated with prolonged use of intranasal steroids is that they can delay healing. Intranasal corticosteroids are effectively used to treat inflammation resulting from allergic rhinitis and other nasal conditions. However, their anti-inflammatory effects can also suppress local immune responses; this suppression can interfere with the healing process of the nasal mucosa and surrounding tissues. As the local immune response is crucial for healing, prolonged use can lead to a higher likelihood of delayed recovery from irritations, injuries, or infections in the nasal passages.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the significant warnings related to intranasal steroid use. While intranasal steroids are not indicated to improve sleep duration directly, they may indirectly improve sleep by reducing nasal congestion. Similarly, they are not typically associated with increasing blood pressure, as systemic absorption is minimal. Lastly, intranasal steroids are not known to worsen respiratory conditions; rather, they are commonly prescribed to help manage symptoms of allergies and improve overall respiratory health.