When you’re down with a cold, you’d probably turn to certain remedies to get rid of the sniffles and the stuffiness. One such example would be nasal sprays. 

But before you use any of them to relieve a cold, make sure you know how they work. Continue reading to learn how to use nasal sprays correctly and ensure you get adequate relief from your cold. 

Nasal Sprays: How to Use Them Properly 

There are three types of nasal sprays: decongestants, saline nasal sprays or salt-water solutions, or steroid nasal sprays. They can be prescribed by your doctor or purchased over-the-counter at your pharmacy.

Nasal sprays are usually sold either as a pressurized canister or a pump bottle. To maximize their benefits and address your sickness, it’s a must to remember how to use them properly. 

When using either form of nasal spray, always start with a clear nose. Gently blow your nose to get rid of mucus that may still be stuck. If you bought a nasal spray that comes in a pressurized container, take note of these steps: 

1. Shake the container multiple times, and see that it fits just right in the allotted holder. 
2. Make sure your head is upright, then slowly exhale. 
3. Hold the container upright, and place the tip inside one nostril. Use your finger to press down or close the other nostril that’s not receiving the medicine. 4. Press down the spray while slowly inhaling through your nose. 5. Repeat steps 1 to 5 if you’re going to use the spray on the other nostril or if you’re going to use other nasal sprays. Avoid blowing your nose after using the nasal spray. 

Meanwhile, here’s how to properly use nasal spray that comes in a pump bottle:

1. Remove the cap and shake the container. If you’re using it for the first time on a certain day, “prime” the nasal spray by pressing the button a few times to release a fine mist in the air. 
2. Slightly tilt your head forward and slowly exhale. 
3. Hold the nasal spray by placing your thumb at the bottom portion of the bottle, and your index and middle fingers at the top. Close the other nostril that’s not receiving the medicine with a finger from your other hand. 
4. Press down the pump bottle while slowly inhaling through your nose. 5. Repeat steps 2 to 5 if you’re going to use the spray on the other nostril. Repeat steps 1 to 5 if you’re going to use multiple nasal sprays. Once done, resist the urge to sneeze or blow your nose.

Other Tips on How to Use Nasal Spray Correctly

Take these recommendations regarding nasal spray use and storage into heart too: 

• Wash nasal sprays that come in a pressurized container once a week. 
• Before using any nasal spray, see to it that you can smell the air through each nostril. This will help the medicine in a spray go further inside your nose and ensure that the substance won’t be wasted. 
• Make sure the nozzle is directed toward the back of your head. Failure to straighten your aim may lead to medicine waste or even nasal irritation. 
• Store nasal sprays away from direct sunlight.

The use of nasal sprays can be intimidating at first, but with careful practice and application, you can be a pro at them. However, be aware that some types of nasal sprays aren’t recommended for people with certain health conditions or problems, or may even trigger interactions with some medicines. 

As such, consult a doctor or a healthcare professional if you’re unsure about where to start with nasal sprays. They can provide you with more information about these products and the types that are ideal for your current condition. More importantly, seek medical attention ASAP if you experience nasal pain, nosebleeds, or discomfort in your nose, as this may be a sign of irritation.

Sources: 

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2000/1215/p2695.html

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/nasal-sprays-work-best-when-you-use-them-co rrectly-heres-how/ 

https://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/cold-guide/nasal-sprays-cold-relief