Nasal sprays provide a direct way to deliver medication to the lining of the nasal passages, offering targeted relief for conditions like congestion and allergies. Ensuring the spray reaches the intended area maximizes the therapeutic benefit while minimizing side effects like irritation or the unpleasant sensation of the medication dripping down the throat. Understanding the steps involved is paramount for successful treatment.
Preparing the Device
Before the first use, or if the device has not been used for a few days, the pump must be “primed” to ensure the correct dose is delivered. Priming involves spraying the device into the air, away from the face, until a fine, consistent mist appears.
It is important to check the expiration date on the packaging and gently shake the bottle before each use, as some medications settle when left standing. Preparing the nasal passages is also necessary. Gently blowing the nose clears out excess mucus, which would otherwise block the medication from reaching the nasal lining where it needs to absorb.
If the nasal passages are severely blocked, a saline rinse or decongestant may be necessary a few days prior to using the medicated spray. This preparatory clearing allows the medicinal mist to contact the targeted nasal surfaces, such as the turbinates, rather than simply being trapped in mucus.
Proper Application Technique
The most effective application technique focuses on precise positioning and aiming to ensure the medication reaches the correct area of the nasal cavity. Begin by standing or sitting upright, tilting the head slightly forward, which helps direct the spray toward the back of the nose instead of down the throat. Tilting the head too far back is a common mistake that can lead to the medication missing the nasal passages entirely.
The technique for inserting the nozzle and aiming the spray is known as the “opposite hand to opposite nostril” method. For instance, when treating the left nostril, hold the spray device with the right hand and vice versa. This positioning naturally angles the spray tip away from the nasal septum, which is the thin wall of cartilage separating the nostrils.
The nasal septum is highly vascular, and repeatedly spraying medication directly onto it can cause irritation or nosebleeds. The nozzle tip should be inserted just slightly, about a quarter to a half-inch, and aimed toward the outer wall of the nose, in the direction of the ear or the outer corner of the eye. This lateral aiming ensures the medication is deposited onto the turbinates, the curved structures inside the nose that are key sites for absorption and inflammation relief.
While keeping the non-target nostril closed with a finger, press the pump once while simultaneously breathing in slowly and gently through the nose. The spray mechanism itself should be enough to propel the medication into the nasal passages, and a strong, hard sniff should be avoided. Sniffing too vigorously can cause the medicine to travel past the nasal cavity and into the throat, where it is ineffective and can leave an unpleasant taste. After spraying, remove the nozzle and breathe out through the mouth before repeating the process for the other nostril.
Post-Use Care and Troubleshooting
Keep the head tilted forward briefly after administration to allow the medicine to settle on the nasal lining. Avoid blowing the nose for at least 15 minutes, as this removes the medication before it absorbs. If liquid drips from the nostrils, wipe it away with a tissue.
Maintaining the device’s hygiene prevents contamination and nozzle clogging. Wipe the spray tip clean with a dry tissue or cloth after every use before replacing the cap. If the nozzle clogs, clean it with warm water, but never attempt to clear the hole with a pin or sharp object, as this can damage the mechanism.
Medication running down the back of the throat usually indicates incorrect head position or forceful inhalation. If the spray causes persistent soreness, stinging, or nosebleeds, stop use for one or two days and use a saline spray to allow the nasal lining to recover. Decongestant sprays risk “rebound congestion” if used for more than three to five days in a row. If symptoms worsen or side effects are severe, consult a medical professional.