Nasal sprays deliver medication directly into the nasal passages, offering targeted relief for conditions like allergies and congestion. Proper application ensures the medication reaches intended areas, maximizing effectiveness and minimizing side effects such as irritation or dripping down the throat.
Preparing Your Nasal Spray
Before applying a nasal spray, prepare the medication for optimal delivery. Begin by gently blowing your nose to clear mucus, allowing the medicine to reach deeper into the nasal passages. Remove the cap from the nasal spray bottle. Shake the bottle well before each use to ensure the medication is evenly mixed.
If the nasal spray is new or has not been used for a while (typically two weeks or more), it needs to be “primed”. Priming involves pumping the spray a few times into the air, away from your face, until a fine mist appears. This ensures a full and consistent dose will be delivered with the next use.
Step-by-Step Application
Position your head by tilting it slightly forward, aligning your nose with your toes. This helps direct the spray toward the back of the nose and away from the septum, the middle wall of the nose. Gently insert the nozzle into one nostril, about a quarter to half an inch; avoid pushing it in too far.
Aim the spray away from the center of your nose and towards the ear on the same side of the nostril, or towards the outer corner of your eye. This cross-hand technique, using your right hand for the left nostril and vice versa, helps ensure the spray reaches the appropriate areas. While gently closing the other nostril with a finger, press down firmly on the pump to release one spray. Simultaneously, breathe in slowly and gently through the nostril, avoiding a forceful sniff that could cause the medicine to go down your throat. Repeat these steps for the other nostril if prescribed.
Maximizing Effectiveness and Avoiding Common Errors
After applying the nasal spray, avoid blowing your nose for at least 15 minutes to allow the medication to absorb effectively. If liquid drips from your nose, simply wipe it away. Do not sniff too hard during or immediately after spraying, as this can cause the medication to drain down the back of your throat, reducing its effectiveness and potentially leading to an unpleasant taste.
To maintain hygiene and product integrity, wipe the nozzle clean with a tissue after each use and replace the protective cap. Clean the nozzle regularly by removing it and rinsing it under warm water, allowing it to air-dry completely before reattaching. Never use sharp objects like pins to unblock the nozzle, as this can damage the spray mechanism.
Store nasal sprays in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture, and always keep the cap on to prevent leakage. Nasal sprays are personal devices and should not be shared to prevent the spread of germs and infection.