When you need to use a nasal spray, it's important to make sure you know how to do it right. By following the correct instructions you will be sure that the active ingredients of the drug reach the right depth in the nostrils, so that the body is able to absorb them appropriately in order to obtain the beneficial effects. With practice and the right technique, it's easy to learn how to use a nasal spray most effectively.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Prepare to Use the Nasal Spray
Step 1. Wash your hands
Hot water and soap allow you to achieve the desired result. Before using any nasal spray, it is important to wash your hands well to minimize the risk of infecting the airways with germs or bacteria, at worst by spraying them into the nostrils along with the medication.
Step 2. Clear your nostrils by blowing your nose before using the spray
Try to remove as much mucus as possible, but don't blow too hard. The safest and most effective way to blow your nose is to close one nostril at a time with your fingers while pushing the air out of the other.
Step 3. Make sure you can breathe in both nostrils before using the spray
If after you have blown your nose or otherwise attempted to clear the nasal passages, you still cannot breathe freely, it is very unlikely that the drug will prove effective as it will not be able to penetrate far enough into the nostrils.
Step 4. Try using home remedies to clear your nostrils before using the spray
If you still feel very congested while trying to blow your nose, try to fix the problem using one of the following remedies. It is important that the nasal passages are as free as possible before spraying the drug. Some methods you can use are:
- Taking a hot shower, the heat can help you clear the nasal passages.
- Use a saline spray solution.
- Use a humidifier. Contrary to popular belief, dry air aggravates nasal congestion. Moisture, on the other hand, can help clear the nostrils.
- Drink plenty of water. Being well hydrated can help relieve phlegm.
Method 2 of 3: Use a Nasal Spray with Pressurized Container
Step 1. Mount the nozzle on the can
Make sure it is securely attached and shake the can a couple of times. Read the instructions for use to make sure you are holding the spout correctly.
Step 2. Place the nozzle in one nostril to apply the spray
At the same time, keep one finger pressed on the opposite nostril to keep it closed. Close your mouth and press the nozzle as you slowly inhale through the nostril where you are applying the medication. Check that the spray has worked properly, then repeat the steps with the other nostril, not forgetting to keep the one in which you just applied the spray closed. Do not exceed the dosage recommended on the package insert.
Don't breathe in or sniff your nose too hard or the medication may get into your throat. If that happens, try to spit it out
Step 3. Don't blow your nose and try not to sneeze immediately after applying the spray to your nostrils
You should wait a few minutes for the body to have time to absorb the drug.
Step 4. Wash your hands again
When you are done using the nasal spray, you should wash your hands again. Especially if you are using it to eliminate phlegm caused by some disease, it is important to wash your hands to reduce the risk of spreading the germs present. It is a necessary precaution to avoid infecting others.
Step 5. Be patient
In the case of many nasal sprays, several applications are required before appreciable results can be obtained. Wait at least two weeks (or the amount of time indicated by your doctor, which may vary depending on the type of drug) before evaluating the effects produced by the spray.
- Do not exceed the doses recommended by your doctor, even if you do not get the desired results. As with any other drug, if you find that it is ineffective (or takes longer to take effect than you expected or hoped for) the solution is not to increase or double the doses. The consequences could be dangerous, so be careful never to exceed the limits recommended by your doctor.
- The dosage of nasal sprays is variable and depends on the active ingredients contained.
Method 3 of 3: Use a Nasal Spray with Manual Dispenser
Step 1. Clear your nostrils by blowing your nose before using the spray
Try to remove as much mucus as possible, but don't blow too hard. The safest and most effective way to blow your nose is to close one nostril at a time with your fingers while pushing the air out of the other.
Step 2. Remove the protective cap from the spout and shake the bottle
Charge the spray pump before using it in your nose. Do this by spraying the product into the air until a gush comes out of the nozzle. It is important to charge the pump when using this type of nasal spray to ensure that the actual drug is entering the nasal passages and being absorbed by the body.
Step 3. Read the instructions for use to make sure you are holding the bottle correctly
You should place your thumb on the bottom and your index and middle fingers around the spout for a firm grip.
Step 4. Place the nozzle in one nostril to apply the spray
At the same time, keep one finger pressed on the opposite nostril to keep it closed. Close your mouth and press the nozzle as you slowly inhale through the nostril where you are applying the medication. Check that the spray has worked properly, then repeat the steps with the other nostril, not forgetting to keep the one in which you just applied the spray closed. Do not exceed the dosage recommended on the package insert.
Advice
- Read carefully all the instructions given in the package insert of the nasal spray to understand exactly what type of drug you are about to take and how to use it correctly.
- Stop using the medication right away and contact your doctor if you experience any irritation or pain in your nostrils after applying nasal spray.
