Do you often find yourself reaching for a nasal spray to relieve congestion or seasonal allergies? Nasal sprays can be helpful when used correctly, giving quick relief for stuffy noses and sinus pressure. However, using them incorrectly may affect how well they work or cause side effects.
With the help of Kelly Erdos, PharmD, a clinical pharmacist with Banner Health, learn the basics of nasal sprays, how to use them properly and common mistakes to avoid.
Types of nasal sprays
Nasal sprays are medications administered inside your nose (nostrils) to treat many nasal or sinus conditions, such as allergies, sinus congestion and nasal dryness.
Here is a breakdown of a few different types of nasal sprays:
- Saline nasal sprays: These sprays contain a solution of salt in water that helps moisturize and soothe nasal passages. “They are often used to help with dryness or flush out allergens and irritants in the nose,” Dr. Erdos said.
- Steroid nasal sprays: These sprays contain corticosteroids, which are anti-inflammatory medications. “Steroid sprays are used to reduce swelling and inflammation caused by conditions such as seasonal or environmental allergies or sinus infections (sinusitis),” Dr. Erdos said.
- Antihistamine nasal sprays: These sprays contain medications which block histamine, a substance released during allergic reactions. They relieve symptoms like sneezing, itching and a runny nose caused by allergies.
- Decongestant nasal sprays: These sprays contain medications such as oxymetazoline or phenylephrine which shrink the blood vessels in the nasal passages. “Nasal decongestants are used to provide quick relief from nasal congestion caused by colds or allergies but are only effective for a short period,” Dr. Erdos said. “Use sparingly for no longer than three days in a row to avoid rebound congestion or dependency on the medication.”
Each type of nasal spray has its own purpose and usage guidelines. Use them as directed by your health care provider to ensure safe and effective relief for nasal symptoms.
Why correct usage matters
Most nasal sprays are user-friendly and easy to handle. Whether new to nasal sprays or looking to refine your technique, Dr. Erdos shared simple steps to maximize effectiveness, so you get the most from your nasal spray.
Step-by-step guide to using nasal sprays
- Prepare the spray: Shake the bottle gently, if required, and remove the cap.
- Clear your nose: Blow your nose gently to clear any mucus.
- Prime the pump: Some bottles are pressurized, and some are not (pump bottles). Pump bottles may need to be “primed” by applying pressure to the bottle until a fine mist comes out.
- Position yourself: Stand or sit upright with your head tilted slightly forward.
- Insert the nozzle: Insert the nozzle into your nose, about ¼ to ½ inch in. Aim the spray away from the center of your nose to avoid hitting the thin wall between your nostrils (the septum). “Try using your opposite hand to spray into the opposite nostril,” Dr. Erdos said. “For example, your right hand and your left nostril. This allows the spray to get into the correct position.”
- Spray and breathe: While gently closing the other nostril with your finger, press down on the pump to release the mist. Breathe gently through your nose at the same time. Repeat the process for the other nostril.
- Avoid blowing your nose or sneezing immediately: After using the nasal spray, try to avoid blowing your nose for a few minutes or sneezing so the product can stay in your nose.
- Clean the nozzle: To prevent infection, the nozzle should be cleaned regularly with soap and water. It can also be cleaned with alcohol, but wait until the alcohol has dried before using the spray since it can irritate your nose.
Common mistakes to avoid
While nasal sprays are easy to use, there are some common mistakes you should avoid:
Incorrect head position: Tilting your head too far back or forward can cause the spray to miss your nasal passages or hit the septum.
Not priming the pump: Skipping the priming step can prevent the correct dose of medication from being delivered.
Overusing the spray: Using nasal sprays more often or in higher doses than recommended can lead to dependency or rebound congestion.
When using other types of nasal sprays, including saline, steroid and antihistamine sprays, be aware of how often you use them and if that amount of use is necessary. “Often, people may only need to use a nasal spray a few months out of the year for allergies or when the weather is dry and cold,” Dr. Erdos said.
Use the lowest dose of medication for the shortest time possible. Limit nasal decongestant sprays to three days in a row and no more than twice a day.
When stopping a nasal spray, you may notice a return to your baseline of nasal congestion and a return of other symptoms like sneezing or runny nose. Talk to your health care provider about how best to cut back on the medication to help with withdrawals.
Sharing nasal sprays: Sharing nasal sprays can spread infections. Don’t share nasal sprays, even if the nozzle is cleaned correctly.
When to see your health care provider
If you experience unusual side effects, such as severe nasal irritation, frequent nosebleeds or worsening congestion after using a spray, talk to your provider. They can provide guidance on whether to continue using the spray or try a different treatment.
Conclusion
Using a nasal spray correctly is key to getting the relief you need from nasal congestion and allergies. By following these simple steps and avoiding common mistakes, you can ensure your nasal spray is effective and safe to use.
See your health care provider or a Banner Health specialist for questions or concerns. Take control of your nasal health and breathe easier.
