How to Properly Use Nasal Spray for Allergy Relief
When it comes to using a nasal spray, doctors say getting comfortable is essential in order to treat your allergies regularly—and effectively.1,2 One study shows that people who use their spray regularly and correctly are better off during pollen season.3 Research also shows that when you practice consistently, in time a new behavior can become a routine part of your life.4
Try the tips below to help make using a nasal spray more comfortable. And take a minute to learn how FLONASE Allergy Relief can provide relief from nasal congestion, plus sneezing, itchy, watery eyes, and runny nose.
How you position your head is important. When your mom gave you nose drops she probably told you to lean your head backwards. Instead, when using FLONASE Allergy Relief, keep your head upright and sniff gently. Leaning back makes the medicine run down your throat—where it can’t do you as much good and may feel uncomfortable.5
Keep the opposite nostril closed. Gently holding down the nostril you’re not spraying can help you draw the spray into your upper nose more easily.5
Breathe in easily. As you spray, just inhale gently—that’s all you need to do.
Aim the nozzle away from the middle of the nose. Direct the spray away from the septum—the cartilage dividing the two sides of your nose—and toward the side of your nostril.5
Breathe out gently through your mouth after each spray. And make sure to spray correctly in both nostrils.
Practice these steps and keep it up for a while, and soon you and your nose will be on the way to an easier allergy season.
Sources:
1. Rabago, D, Zgierska, A. Saline nasal spray for upper respiratory conditions. American Family Physician [Serial online]. 2009;10: 1117-1119. Available at http://www.aafp.org/afp/2009/1115/p1117.html. Accessed October 16, 2018.
2. Anolik, R, Fluticasone furoate nasal spray: Profile of an enhanced-affinity corticosteroid in treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis. Journal of Asthma and Allergy [Serial online]. 2010;3: 87–99. Available at http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3047912/. Accessed October 16, 2018.
3. Gani, F., Pozzi, E., Crivellaro, M. A., Senna, G., Landi, M., Lombardi, C., Canonica, G. W. and Passalacqua, G. (2001), The role of patient training in the management of seasonal rhinitis and asthma: clinical implications. Allergy [Serial online]. 2001; 56: 65–68. Available at http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1034/j.1398-9995.2001.00794.x/full. Accessed October 16, 2018.
4. Lally P, van Jaarsveld CHM, Potts HWW, Wardle J. How are habits formed: modelling habit formation in the real world. Eur J Soc Psychol. 2010;40:998-1009. doi : 10.1002/ejsp.674. Available at: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ejsp.674/abstract. Accessed October 16, 2018.
5. deShazo RD., Kemp S ,. Patient information: Allergic rhinitis (seasonal allergies) (Beyond the Basics). Adapted with permission from: Diseases of the Sinuses: Diagnosis and Management. Kennedy DW, Bolger WE, Zinreich SJ (Eds), BC Decker, Hamilton, Ontario 2001. Copyright Kennedy DW, Zinreich SJ. Available at https://www.uptodate.com/contents/allergic-rhinitis-beyond-the-basics. Accessed October 16, 2018.
ALL ABOUT ALLERGIES
All the information you need to lead a life that's not limited by allergies. See all articles >
Find the Best Flonase Product For You
Leading a life not limited by allergies starts with FLONASE. Each product offers you the chance to help tackle your allergies and help manage your symptoms.
