Nasal sprays are used to treat conditions like nasal congestion, allergies, and sinus infections by delivering medication directly to the nasal passages. Using nasal sprays properly is key for effective treatment and to avoid issues like rebound congestion and nose bleeds.
Follow our step-by-step instructions on how to use nasal sprays correctly, including a video demonstration by Advanced ENT & Allergy’s Dr Gregory Abbas. This article also contains answers to common questions about nasal spray use and an overview of other sinus medication options.
How to Use Nasal Sprays Correctly
Proper use of nasal spray ensures you get the maximum benefit from the treatment. Follow these eight simple steps to use your nasal spray effectively:
- Blow Your Nose Gently: Clear your nostrils before using the nasal spray to ensure the medication reaches the target area inside your nasal passages.
- Shake the Bottle: If your nasal spray requires it, gently shake the bottle to mix the medication inside. Check the instructions on your bottle for specific guidance.
- Prime the Spray (If Needed): Before using the spray for the first time, or if it hasn't been used for a while, prime the bottle by spraying it into the air away from your face until you see a fine mist.
- Tilt Your Head Forward: Tilt your head slightly and pull your nostril out with one hand (watch the video to see a demonstration). Use your left index finger to pull out your left nostril, and use your right hand to insert the nozzle into the nostril. When doing the right nostril, use your right index finger to pull out the nostril, and the left hand to position the nozzle.
- Position the Nozzle: Hold the bottle with your thumb at the bottom and your index and middle fingers on the top. Insert the nozzle into one nostril. The proper angle is up and slightly out, almost towards the corner of your eye.
- Spray But Don’t Inhale: Press down on the spray pump but don’t inhale. If you inhale, the medication will end up in your throat. You can sniff slightly to keep the medication on the nose to avoid it dripping out the front.
- Repeat for the Other Nostril: Repeat the steps for the other side. Remember: use the right hand to position the nozzle when doing the left nostril, and the left hand when doing the right nostril. This ensures that you get the proper angle each time. If you don’t, you might irritate the septum (the wall that separates the nostril) and it can cause bleeding.
- Avoid Blowing Your Nose Immediately: After using the spray, wait for a few minutes before blowing your nose to allow the medication to stay in your nasal passages and work effectively.
Video: How to Use Nasal Spray Step by Step
Watch Dr. Greg Abbas explain how to properly use nasal sprays, with additional tips:
What Is Rebound Congestion?
Rebound congestion (rhinitis medicamentosa) is a condition in which the nasal passages become congested and swollen after the medication in a nasal decongestant wears off. It occurs after you stop using a nasal decongestant that you used heavily. This leads to a cycle of needing to use the decongestant more frequently, which worsens the congestion over time. It’s common with decongestant sprays like Afrin.
To prevent rebound congestion, limit the use of nasal decongestants to no more than 3 days (as indicated on the label). If you are experiencing rebound congestion , discontinuing the nasal decongestant will provide relief, although your congestion might get worse before you see an improvement. Ask your doctor about ways to relieve symptoms during this adjustment period.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nasal Sprays
Is Nasal Spray Addictive?
Over the counter nasal sprays are not addictive, but you can develop a tolerance. Decongestant nasal sprays don’t contain habit-forming ingredients or cause the compulsive cravings associated with addiction. However, with prolonged use, your nasal membranes will build up a tolerance to the medication and require more decongestant to achieve the same result. Increased tolerance can also lead to dependency, which means your body becomes used to having some amount of the medication available most of the time.
How Do I Prime and Clean My Nasal Spray Bottle?
- Priming: Before using a new nasal spray or one that hasn’t been used for a while, you need to prime it. Hold the bottle upright and spray into the air away from your face until you see a fine mist. This ensures the spray is delivering the right dose.
- Cleaning: To keep your nasal spray hygienic, clean the nozzle regularly. Remove the cap and rinse the spray tip under warm water. Let it dry completely before reattaching the cap.
- Safety Warning: Always check the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific spray. Avoid inserting pins or sharp objects into the nozzle, as this can damage the mechanism or create a risk of contamination.
Is Nasal Spray Safe for Pregnancy?
Most nasal sprays are considered safe to use during pregnancy, but some caution should be exerted depending on the type. Saline nasal sprays are generally safe for clearing congestion. For decongestants or steroid sprays, iIt might be best to check with a doctor before using.
How to Use Nasal Spray for a Toddler or Baby?
If using nasal sprays for your baby or toddler, follow these steps:
- Use a bulb syringe or saline spray designed for infants to gently clear your baby’s nasal passages before using the nasal spray.
- If using a medicated nasal spray, ensure it is specifically designed for babies or toddlers. Follow the dosing instructions carefully.
- Lay your baby down and gently insert the nozzle into one nostril, aiming away from the center of the nose. Spray once and wait a few seconds before moving to the next nostril.
- Caution: Avoid using regular nasal sprays or decongestants for young children unless prescribed by your pediatrician, as misuse can cause side effects.
Nasal Spray Isn’t Working - What’s Next?
If you are using nasal sprays correctly but they are not working as well as you hoped, or if you are experiencing rebound congestion, it might be time to explore other options. Not all nasal sprays are the same, and not all congestion should be treated with a spray. Depending on your symptoms, you might benefit more from other treatments, like different sinus medications or allergy treatments.
Contact Advanced ENT & Allergy for Sinus Help
When used properly, nasal sprays can go a long way to provide relief. If you would like to discuss different options for nasal sprays or speak to a specialist about your allergies or sinus issues, schedule an appointment at one of our clinics in the Kentuckiana area. If you have allergies, we can also offer immunotherapy treatment (allergy drops or allergy shots).
