Was given Afrin by a friend's father who was a doctor, back in the early 70's to help clear my sinuses. I continued using both Afrin, and generic brands of nasal spray until 3 years ago. When I went to the ENT after I'd quit, he told me I was lucky...that he had seen people who had used nasal sprays for years that ended up with actual holes inside their nose. I use Breathe Rite nasal strips every night, and saline solution occasionally. The ENT told me I have a deviated septum, but didn't recommend surgery, which is fine with me. I may snore more, but there's nobody here to complain...so who cares. At least I'm off that crap.
My surgery came about because I developed Thyroid Eye Disease. They had to do an orbital decompression, and back then, the only way to get to the eye orbit was via the sinuses. So, I had the standard (for that time, circa 2002) rhinoplasty in order for the ENT and eye surgeon to get into the eye orbit. My wife was convinced that before the surgery I had sleep apnea. They didn't get around to ordering a sleep test until after I'd recovered from the surgery, and I tested negative for sleep apnea. The recovery from the sinus surgery was pretty tough, but it was totally worth it.