Nasal Spray

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How to use a nasal spray

This page explains what a nasal spray is and how to use it effectively. We hope it will help to answer some of the questions you may have.

What is a nasal spray?

Nasal sprays are medicines that you spray into your nose to reduce inflammation. They are sprayed directly into the nostrils (nasal passage). Nasal sprays are commonly used to treat asthma, allergies of the nose and persistent rhinitis (inflammation of the nose).

Using the correct nasal spray technique will help the medication work more effectively. You will also reduce your risk of side effects, such as: nose bleeds, irritation and / or soreness.

Technique

Nasal sprays will vary in shape and size, but the technique remains the same. Please follow the instructions to the right.

Before first use you will need to prime the nasal spray if you have not used it before, or if you have not used it for two weeks. Please make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

To use your nasal spray

  1. Shake the nasal spray well.
  2. Take off the cap.
  3. Blow your nose gently to make sure your nostrils are as clear as possible.
  4. Tilt your head forward and place the nozzle into one nostril. Please use opposite hand to opposite nostril e.g. right hand – left nostril, left hand – right. This will help direct the medication outwards, away from the centre of your nose.
  5. Press the spray to release the dose and breathe in gently and steadily through your nose. Do not sniff hard. This will reduce the risk of the medication being swallowed or ‘tasted’.
  6. Remove the nasal spray from your nostril and breathe out through your mouth.
  7. If you have been told to have a second dose, repeat steps three to seven. When you’ve finished, wipe the nozzle so it is clean and then put the cap back on.

Nasal Spray Health Resources

It may take a few weeks before you notice any improvement in your symptoms. Please always use your nasal spray as prescribed by your doctor or pharmacist.

Find out more with this video from Asthma UK.

Intranasal steroids sprays are available over the counter. These are commonly sold as hay fever relief. Please ask your pharmacist for fluticasone or mometasone nasal spray – these cost in the region of £4-£6.

Nasal saline (or nasal douching) can also be useful. This is also available over the counter – Calpol do a nasal saline – around £5 or pharmacy own brand for around £3.50. You can also try Sterimar (around £6) or Neilmed (around £20).

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