So, your doctor has prescribed you a nasal spray and now you want to know a bit more about this medication. Well, you have come to the right place. Today, we will look at what nasal sprays are and how to use them. Moreover, we will leave you with some final thoughts about the proper use of nasal sprays to get the best results. By the end of this quick guide to nasal sprays, you should be much more confident using and understanding this kind of pharmaceutical. If you still feel like you need more advice or clarification, it is a great idea to reach out to a medical professional.

What Are Nasal Sprays?

Nasal sprays are drug delivery devices that spray medicine up the nasal passages. They require one-handed actuation and are simple for patients to use. Experts at Renaissance Lakewood manufacture high-quality nasal spray pharmaceuticals and highlight the importance of producing sterile, easy-to-use drug delivery devices for all patients. Often, nasal sprays are used to treat asthma, allergies, or cold-like symptoms, such as sneezing, itching, difficulty breathing, or nasal congestion. 

How to Use Nasal Sprays

It is important to learn how to use a nasal spray correctly to prevent the medicine from dripping back out of your nose or down the back of your throat. You can look online for basic nasal spray advice, though this is not a substitute for professional medical advice as given by a qualified doctor. Learning how to use your nasal spray properly will allow you to manage your symptoms better, so it is well worth looking into.

It may take a few tries to get your nasal spray technique perfected, but this is normal, so do not be discouraged. If you are using your nasal spray for the first time, you should start by shaking it thoroughly to ensure the liquid within is mixed well. Then, hold the spray away from your face and press the button to release the spray. When you see a fine mist leave the bottle, you know it is ready for use. 

At this point, you should gently blow your nose to remove anything that might prevent the medicine from entering your nasal passages. Then, place the nozzle in your nose, pointing it to the back, rather than straight down the nasal passage. Point your head down, press the button to release the medicine, and breathe in gently. There is no need to sniff hard. Remember to breathe out again using your mouth, so you do not expel the medicine from your nose.

Keep in Mind

Remember that nasal sprays come in different shapes and sizes and are produced under various brands, so be sure to read the instructions that come with your specific nasal spray on top of following the general advice you find online.

Some brands recommend that you block the other nostril with a finger as you administer the spray. This will vary from product to product and brand to brand, so it is best to follow the advice provided by the supplier of your specific spray. 

There are different kinds of nasal sprays (antihistamine, steroid, and decongestant) so make sure you have the correct kind of spray for your symptoms. Whichever kind of nasal spray you are using, ensure that you have discussed it with a medical professional first. Some patients, for instance, those with diabetes, high blood pressure, or hyperthyroidism, might be better off using a different kind of medication.

Lastly, it is never a good idea to share your nasal spray. This medication needs to be kept clean and is for your own personal use only. Sharing a nasal spray can result in the spread of bacteria from person to person and the sharing of infections or illnesses. Wipe down the nozzle after every use and place the cap back on the bottle. Keep your nasal spray clean and dry between usages.

Now that you know what a nasal spray is and how this pharmaceutical works, you should feel more comfortable using this kind of drug delivery device. Remember to read the instructions for your specific nasal spray bottle as these pharmaceuticals come in a range of sizes and shapes. Different brands will have different instructions and recommendations depending on their specific delivery systems. Just remember to talk to a medical professional if you are unsure which nasal spray to use or whether you should be using it at all. And lastly, do not share your nasal spray! Keep your medication clean and dry to avoid spreading bacteria.