How to use a nasal spray correctly: step by step instructions

2024 Author: Malcolm Clapton | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 03:44

Nasal sprays have become much more popular than drops. In order not to harm yourself, you need to know how to use them and to whom they are contraindicated.

How to use the spray

Preparation

1. Blow your nose. Make sure you can breathe through your nose (albeit badly). If the nostrils are completely blocked, the spray simply will not get into all the nasal cavities and will not work.
2. Wash your hands. The last thing you need to do is get another infection in your nose.
3. Remove the spray tip cap and make sure the spray is clean and not touching anything other than the inside of your nose. Otherwise, the nostrils can become a habitat for a new virus or bacteria.

Spraying

Spraying rules depend on the type of packaging.

Spray container

1. Shake container.
2. Keep your head straight.
3. Exhale.
4. Insert the tip of the container into the nostril about half a centimeter. Be sure to point the spray towards the side of the nose opposite the septum. This will prevent damage to the mucous membrane.
5. Pinch the other nostril.
6. Press down on the container while taking a deep breath.
7. Remove the tip of the container from the nostril and inhale a couple of times through your nose so that the medicine penetrates deeper and does not leak out.

Can with a piston

1. Shake the can. If this is your first time in a day, spray it in the air a couple of times first.
2. Tilt your head forward slightly.
3. Exhale.
4. Insert the tip into the nostril. Remember to keep the nebulizer straight and do not point it at the nasal septum.
5. Pinch the other nostril.
6. Press your middle and index fingers on the plunger while inhaling smoothly and deeply.
7. Remove the tip of the spray can from your nose and inhale several times.

Completion

1. Remember to close the spray cap.
2. Wash your hands.
3. Try not to sneeze or blow your nose for at least 10 minutes, otherwise the medicine will come out and not work.

What is important to remember

Beware of allergies

Saygibat Mamaeva otorhinolaryngologist of the ON Clinic medical center, doctor of the highest category, candidate of medical sciences.

Although nasal sprays are safe for the body (their bioavailability into the blood is practically reduced to zero), in rare cases they can cause allergic reactions in case of individual intolerance. There may be swelling of the soft tissues of the nose, congestion. Very rarely, there may be skin rashes. If symptoms of an allergic reaction appear, you must definitely see a doctor.

Don't fall victim to a vicious circle

Vasoconstrictor nasal sprays can be habit-forming. They are usually used to combat nasal congestion. And they really relieve swelling. But if such funds are used for more than seven days, the vessels will forget how to narrow themselves. As a result, the nose will be constantly blocked, even if the runny nose has already passed. And nasal sprays will not help fight the disease, but only aggravate it. The longer you use them, the worse it gets, and this gives you a reason to spray in your nose even more often.

Be prepared to be annoyed

Various types of sprays can irritate the nasal mucosa. In this case, you begin to feel dry and unpleasant sensations in the nose, it may even begin to bleed. If you used the spray correctly (that is, did not aim the spray at the walls of your nose), try taking a break of 1–2 days. Other moisturizing sprays will help to cope with irritation. They usually contain seawater in their composition. If the discomfort persists or the nose continues to bleed, this is a reason to see a doctor.

Your spray should only be yours

You don't share your toothbrush with anyone, do you? So it is with the spray. If more than one family member needs it at the same time, you need to buy several packages and not confuse them. Even if you are sure that you have contracted each other, you do not necessarily have the same bacteria or viruses. And it is better not to arrange the exchange of infections with a spray tip.

Read the instructions

Although nasal sprays are usually sold over-the-counter in pharmacies, that doesn't mean you don't need to talk to your doctor about them or even read the instructions on the package. Like any medicine, nasal products can be harmful if used incorrectly.

Who is contraindicated for such funds?

Here is what the otorhinolaryngologist Saygibat Mamaeva says about it: “Vasoconstrictor drugs are contraindicated in people with perforation of the nasal septum. People who are prone to allergies need to be very careful when using nasal sprays and strictly follow the doctor's recommendations for using the medication."