Nasal Allergy Medications Symptoms, Causes, Treatment - Tips for proper use of nasal sprays on MedicineNet

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February 10, 2012

Nasal Allergy Medications (cont.)

Tips for Proper Use of Nasal Sprays

Using a good technique in applying nasal sprays will help you achieve the maximum benefits from the medications and avoid certain side effects, such as nasal bleeding. The following are guidelines for proper spray technique:

  • Clear your nasal passages with gentle nose blowing or a nasal decongestant for a few days when starting nasal steroids.
  • Shake the container.
  • Place one finger over one nostril to close it off.
  • Place the tip of the spray into the open nostril pointing away from the nasal septum (midline) and direct the spray straight back, not up into the tip of your nose.
  • Activate the spray, sniffing in gently and deeply as you do so.
  • Exhale through the mouth.
  • Repeat these steps for the other nostril.
  • Never "double" spray: always spray one nostril at a time and alternate nostrils each time.
Nasal Allergies At A Glance
  • Nasal allergy is an inflammatory reaction to house dust mites, mold, animal hair, and pollens.
  • Take antihistamines for sneezing, runny nose, itchy nose and throat.
  • Take decongestants for nasal congestion only.
  • Anticholinergic medicine such as Ipratropium Bromide may help with intractable runny noses.
  • Nasal steroids are safe and effective on a runny, itchy, and particularly stuffy nose.
  • Combination of antihistamine, decongestant, and steroid inhalers are a good choice for moderate or severe hay fever.
  • Topical nasal decongestant should be limited to use for 3 to 5 days maximum.

Last Editorial Review: 11/12/2002



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Suggested Reading on Nasal Allergy Medications by Our Doctors

  • Related Diseases & Conditions

    • Chronic Rhinitis and Post-Nasal Drip
      • Allergic rhinitis symptoms include an itchy, runny nose, sneezing, itchy ears, eyes, and throat. Seasonal allergic rhinitis (also called hay fever) is usually caused by pollen in the air. Perennial allergic rhinitis is a type of chronic rhinitis and is a year–round problem, often caused by indoor allergens, such as dust, animal dander, and pollens that may exist at the time. Treatment of chronic rhinitis and post nasal drip are dependant upon the type of rhinitis condition.
    • Allergy
      • An allergy refers to a misguided reaction by our immune system in response to bodily contact with certain foreign substances. When these allergens come in contact with the body, it causes the immune system to develop an allergic reaction in people who are allergic to it. It is estimated that 50 million North Americans are affected by allergic conditions. The parts of the body that are prone to react to allergies include the eyes, nose, lungs, skin, and stomach. Common allergic disorders include hay fever, asthma, allergic eyes, allergic eczema, hives, and allergic shock.
    • Hay Fever
      • Hay fever (allergic rhinitis) is an irritation of the nose caused by pollen and is associated with the following allergic symptoms: nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, eye and nose itching, and tearing eyes. Avoidance of known allergens is the recommended treatment, but if this is not possible, antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal sprays may help alleviate symptoms.
    • Allergy Treatment Begins At Home
    • Indoor Allergens
      • Common sources of indoor allergens include dust mites, cockroaches, molds, pets, and plants. Managing allergies caused by indoor allergens means reducing your exposure to them.
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