Introduction
How To Use A Nasal Spray | How To Use Nasal Spray Correctly | Proper Nasal Spray Technique | How To Use Decongestant Nasal Spray | How To Use Steroid Nasal Spray
Hey all, this weeks video is my favourite video I've made so far! Let me know how you get on with my nasal spray guide by leaving a comment below. If you have any friends or family who would also benefit from this video then feel free to spread the word. Thanks for watching.
WHAT ARE NASAL SPRAYS:
Nasal sprays are a solution or suspension of medicine. They are sprayed into the nostrils, usually to produce a local effect directly inside the nose.
Some nasal sprays are used to administer medicine that acts on other parts of the body. In these cases the medicine is absorbed into the bloodstream from the lining of the nose, which is rich in blood vessels.
OTHER USEFUL INFORMATION:
• Do not share nasal sprays with other people.
• Decongestant nasal sprays should not be used for longer than 5-7 days, as this can cause the nasal congestion to come back (rebound congestion).
• EXPIRY: never use your nasal spray after the expiry date as it may be contaminated with dirt or bacteria. Follow the printed instructions given with your spray. Write the date you open your nasal spray on the bottle so you know when to throw it away.
• Always use the nasal spray according to the printed label or as instructed by your doctor or pharmacist.
• Your nasal spray should be cleaned at least once a week, or more frequently if it becomes blocked. Follow the printed instructions supplied with the spray.
• Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you accidentally take more than you were supposed to.
• Nasal sprays are only intended for use in the nose and must not be taken by mouth.
• Once you have finished the treatment course, carefully dispose of any leftover nasal spray, or return it to your pharmacist for disposal.
• Always keep medicines out of the reach of children.
If you have any further questions please speak to your pharmacist.
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ABOUT ME:
Prescribing Media Pharmacist | Extreme Optimist | Bringing Science Through New Videos Every 2 Weeks - Monday 4PM(GMT).
I'm a British - Persian - Iranian prescribing media pharmacist who loves science, making videos and helping people. I work in both GP surgeries and community pharmacy.
DISCLAIMER:
This video is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. Abraham The Pharmacist has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but make no warranty as to its accuracy. Always consult a doctor or other healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions.
Video
This is going to be the best nasal spray, instructional video.
You've ever seen, trust me.
So before we learn how to use our nasal spray I just want to run through how it actually works, because it's gonna help me explain a few different points to you, here's.
My nasal spray, they all more or less work.
The same way you have your container at the bottom, which contains the medicine, a feed tube, which goes up to the spray pump tip, which when you press produces a fine mist.
Now let's, look at this.
It also works in a similar way to your nasal spray.
Now I know, it's not a medical device.
But the reason I'm showing it to you is that you'd never spray it like this would you? Because.
If you did, you'd quickly learn that it doesn't work, which is precisely why you should always hold your nasal.
Spray upright when you're using it, because just like the other example, if the feed tube isn't in the solution, it's not going to work properly.
So let's say, you've just collected your new nasal spray, or you haven't used to your old one in a while, now are you remembering to prime it before you use it? What you doing? "umm, I, just thought, I'd do your scene for you".
Oh right.
(Laughter).
Well, if it's good I'll use it.
So, priming allows the chambers to fill properly.
So you get the right amount of medicine each time you use it so to prime a nasal spray.
All you do is point away from yourself do a few sprays until it produces a fine mist.
And now it's ready to use.
So the first thing that you need to do is blow your nose, then shake your nasal spray and remove the dust cap.
Now let's observe how it's done, but make sure you watch the full video because I'm going to show you common mistakes, which many patients make which you can avoid.
The first thing you do is tilt your head forward.
Now, let's say, we're gonna spray in our left nostril I'm gonna pull the nostril with my left hand and spray with my right hand.
Now if we're going to spray it in the right nostril we're going to do it, the opposite way so I'm going to pull with my right hand, I'm gonna spray with my left hand.
Now, let's watch, how it's done insert the tip into the nostril at the proper angle so up and slightly out so it's almost towards the corner of your eye, whilst in the nostril this way, the spray can get into your sinus cavities.
Now you can spray (NASAL, SPRAY SOUND).
So the trick is small little sniffs like that just keeps it in place and stops it from dripping out.
Ok.
Mistake.
Number one, probably the most common mistake, I, see patients making and that's that they lean back when they use their nasal spray.
And they also snort as soon as they've used their nasal spray.
So I'm going to demonstrate this put the nasal spray to you.
So you can avoid making the same mistake.
So they lean back like this, put the nasal spray in their nose, (NASAL, SPRAY, SOUND) and snort.
As soon as they press, the nasal spray.
Now if you do this, the medicine isn't going to stay where it's meant to be and it's all gonna go in your throat and it's gonna leave a horrible taste mistake.
Number two, many people tend to use their right hands to spray in both nostrils, which is great for your left nostril because you're able to get the correct angle, which I mentioned earlier.
But when it comes to your right nostril, you end up spraying into your septum, and that can cause bleeding and irritation.
So like I mentioned earlier, switch, hands.
So you're able to get the correct angle.
Why is Abraham the pharmacist calling me? Hello, "hey, Abraham.
The pharmacist, it's Abraham, the pharmacist", hi Abraham.
The pharmacist "I've been using this nasal spray, but I can't feel anything I.
Don't think it's working".
Well, are you following my video guide?? "Of course, I am your videos are the best" (LAUGHTER), you're, too nice.
But are you remembering to take off the little cap on the top of the nasal spray? "oh.
This little cap, thanks Abraham, the pharmacist", if you're a pharmacist watching this video, I'm, sure that scenario has happened to you loads of times for some strange reason patients, forget to remove this cap before they use it.
So if you're using a nasal spray, please remove the cap before you use it and please put it back on once you're done and that's.
It you're.
Now, a nasal spray pro, let me know how you get all my guide by leaving a comment below because I'd love to read it.
And as always with any medication, please always read the information, leaflet that comes with it.
And if you have any further questions, ask your amazing, friendly, pharmacist, hey, guys.
Thanks for watching.
This week's video, make sure to click that like follow or subscribe button.
Now to stay up to date with new weekly videos and it's a work out (WHISPERING).
Don't distract me, "I'll, try not to" (LAUGHTER), no I, can't cause I'm smiling.
Now, So...So Nadia Levett photography, shall we do it again?.
FAQs
How To Use Nasal Spray | How To Use Nasal Spray Properly | Nasal Spray Technique (2018)? ›
Insert the canister tip into your nose, aiming the tip toward the back of your head. Use a finger to close the nostril on the side not receiving the medicine. Press down on the canister as you begin to breathe in slowly through your nose. Repeat these steps for the other nostril.
What is the correct way to spray nasal spray in your nose? ›Insert the canister tip into your nose, aiming the tip toward the back of your head. Use a finger to close the nostril on the side not receiving the medicine. Press down on the canister as you begin to breathe in slowly through your nose. Repeat these steps for the other nostril.
What is the correct way to use Afrin nasal spray? ›To spray, hold bottle with thumb at base and nozzle between first and second fingers. Fully depress rim with a firm, even stroke and sniff deeply. Do not tilt head backward while spraying. Spray 2 or 3 times in each nostril, but not more often than every 10 to 12 hours.
Do you tilt your head when using nasal spray? ›The following pointers should help patients with their positioning when using a nasal spray: The head should be tilted forward slightly, with the nose in line with the toes. Use the right hand to deliver a spray into the left nostril, directing the spray towards the left ear (and vice versa).
Should you inhale when using a nasal spray? ›As you spray, just inhale gently—that's all you need to do. Breathe out gently through your mouth after each spray. And make sure to spray correctly in both nostrils.
What is a 4 way nasal spray? ›What Is 4Way? 4Way Nasal Spray relieves nasal congestion, swollen nasal membranes, sinus congestion and sinus pressure from the common cold, hay fever or upper respiratory allergies. Phenylephrine HCl, the active ingredient, works fast and lasts for up to four hours.
How do you use Afrin without rebound? ›- Minimize sprays and drops. With nasal decongestants, always use less. ...
- Time your doses wisely. The goal is to use as little as possible while staying comfortable. ...
- Wait as long as possible. ...
- Stop after 3 to 5 days.
Hold your breath or very gently inhale while spraying. (Do NOT inhale sharply -- this will just direct the flow of liquid medication down the back of your throat where it will be annoying, and not help your nasal congestion!)
Why aren't you supposed to use Afrin nasal spray? ›However, their overuse can lead to a serious medical problem called “rhinitis medicamentosa.” These sprays contain a chemical that causes the blood vessels in the nose to shrink, thus reducing the swelling in the nose and the stuffy sensation.
Do nasal sprays reach the frontal sinuses? ›Results: Conventional nasal spray deposited liquid only in anterior nasal segments. EDS deposited liquid throughout the nasal cavity, in surgically opened ethmoid and maxillary spaces, at entrances of the frontal sinuses in Draf II geometry, and into frontal sinuses in Draf III.
Does tilting your head back help a stuffy nose? ›
Tilt your head back
Take air through your mouth and tilt your head back as if you want to look at the ceiling. Keep your head back as you hold your breath. Dr. Mandell explains that this action causes the blocked nose to contact the brain which sends a reflex action to the sinus area and from there to the nose to open.
Is it better to use FLONASE at night? In short, no. One daily dose of FLONASE Allergy Relief delivers 24-hour relief from your worst allergy symptoms. So, even if you take it in the morning, you're still covered for all night long, without pesky allergy symptoms.
How many hours apart should you use nasal spray? ›Don't use a spray more than once every 12 hours, or longer than 3 days.
Should I use nasal spray morning or night? ›You'll usually use the spray once or twice a day (once in the morning and once at night). The usual dose is 1 or 2 sprays into each nostril. Follow the instructions that come with your nasal spray. Do not use more than the maximum number of sprays in 24 hours.
How long to avoid blowing nose after nasal spray? ›Aim the nozzle straight toward the outer wall of your nostril. This will help keep the medicine from irritating the inner walls of your nose, especially your septum (the wall that separates your left and right nostrils). Don't blow your nose for 10 minutes or so after you spray.
What happens if you put too much nasal spray in your nose? ›Overuse of nasal sprays can also lead to other side effects, including headache, coughing, nasal passage swelling (inflammation), increased risk of sinus infection, and, rarely, tears in the nostril membranes. Don't let that scare you from getting the relief you need.
What are the consequences of incorrect use of nasal spray? ›Atrophy of the nasal lining is a common complication associated with rhinitis medicamentosa. This involves scarring of the lining of the nose, which may lead to symptoms such as dry nose, irritation, and bleeding. In severe cases, this may result in septal perforation, a hole in the inner wall of the nose.
How deep to spray nasal spray? ›Gently insert the tip of the nasal spray ¼ to ½ inch into your nose. (It's designed not to go too far; don't try to push it in and avoid touching the septum with the tip of the nasal spray.)
Why can't you use nasal spray more than 3 days in a row? ›If a nasal decongestant spray is a fixture in your medication lineup, it's important to know that using these sprays for more than three consecutive days can actually worsen your congestion. "This side effect of nasal decongestant sprays is called rebound congestion," says Dr.
How many sprays per nostril for nasal spray? ›Adults—At first, 2 sprays in each nostril once a day. Some patients may need 1 spray in each nostril 2 times a day (morning and evening). Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed. Children 4 years of age and older—At first, 1 spray in each nostril once a day.
Why is Afrin only 3 days? ›
Afrin can be used up to twice daily. It should not be used for longer than three days as it can rapidly lose its effectiveness and lead to rebound congestion. Common side effects include headache, dizziness, nasal stinging or burning, drowsiness, shakiness, and sleep problems.
Why does Afrin work so well? ›How Afrin Works. Afrin comes in a squirt bottle that you can spray into your nostrils. It stimulates receptors in the smooth muscle of the blood vessels in the nose and makes them narrow (constrict). When the blood vessels constrict, it reduces nasal congestion.
Which is better Flonase or Afrin? ›FLONASE vs. Afrin Nasal Decongestant
For example, nasal sprays such as Afrin® are only decongestants, while FLONASE allergy relief nasal sprays offer more complete* relief by treating additional nasal allergy symptoms.
Overuse of Afrin or other topical nasal sprays that contain oxymetazoline can cause a medical condition called “rhinitis medicamentosa”. Symptoms of rhinitis medicamentosa include nasal stuffiness or congestion, swelling, and pain.
What to avoid with Afrin? ›Avoid taking MAO inhibitors (isocarboxazid, linezolid, metaxalone, methylene blue, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, rasagiline, safinamide, selegiline, tranylcypromine) during treatment with this medication. Most MAO inhibitors should also not be taken for two weeks before treatment with this medication.
What are the downsides of Afrin? ›- Blurred vision.
- fast, irregular, or pounding heartbeat.
- headache, dizziness, drowsiness, or lightheadedness.
- high blood pressure.
- increase in runny or stuffy nose.
- nervousness.
- trembling.
- trouble in sleeping.
Frontal Sinus Massage
Place your index and middle fingers above your eyebrows and gently rub in a circular motion. Slowly move your fingers diagonally toward the middle of your forehead before slowly moving toward the temples. This should take about 30 seconds to a minute. Repeat one to two more times.
The best sleeping position for sinus drainage problems and other sinus issues is to sleep with your head propped up. Sleeping with your head propped up will help gravity naturally drain your sinuses and reduce the chance of excessive blood flow that can develop sinus congestion.
Why is my nose blocked but no mucus? ›Many people think a stuffy nose results from too much mucus in the nasal passages. However, a clogged nose is usually the result of inflamed blood vessels in the sinuses. A cold, the flu, allergies, or a sinus infection can all inflame these blood vessels.
Is it better to sleep upright with a stuffy nose? ›Prop up your head.
“This will decrease blood flow pooling in the nose.” Lying flat, by contrast, allows mucus to build up in your sinuses, where it can clog your nasal passages and disrupt sleep.
How do you decongest your nose while lying down? ›
- Elevate Your Head When You Lie Down. Put additional pillows under your head when you lie down. ...
- Use a Humidifier or Air Purifier to Improve Air Quality. ...
- Stay hydrated throughout the day. ...
- Use Over-the-Counter Products that Relieve Nasal Congestion.
Over-the-counter (OTC) steroid and antihistamine nasal sprays work best to treat allergy symptoms. Flonase, Nasacort, and Astepro are common examples. They're safe for both adults and children for daily use.
What can I take to decongest my nose? ›- Afrin, Dristan, Vicks Sinex (oxymetazoline)
- Sudafed PE (phenylephrine)
- Silfedrine, Sudafed (pseudoephedrine)
Point the nozzle of the nasal spray container toward the back of your head. If you don't spray straight, you will waste the medicine and may cause more irritation in your nose. If the pump spray is used correctly, the spray should not drip from your nose or down the back of your throat.
How long does Afrin spray take to work? ›Oxymetazoline (Afrin) starts to work to relieve nasal and sinus congestion within 5 to 10 minutes of using it. The effects of the medication can typically last up to 12 hours.
Does Afrin work in seconds? ›Afrin starts working in seconds, with 12 lasting hours of nasal congestion relief, letting you breathe more freely.
Is it OK to accidentally swallow Afrin? ›Children may accidentally swallow Afrin that drips from the nose into the back of the throat. As little as half a teaspoon of Afrin can cause life-threatening toxicity if swallowed by a young child. Signs and symptoms of Afrin overdose may include low blood pressure, a slow heart rate and abnormally slow breathing.
Are you supposed to taste nasal spray in your throat? ›If you're using a nasal spray the right way, the medication should not drip down your nose or the back of your throat. However, some nasal sprays may leave an unpleasant taste in your mouth. A drink of water or juice should help clear the aftertaste.
What happens to the mucus when you use Afrin? ›It stimulates receptors in the smooth muscle of the blood vessels in the nose and makes them narrow (constrict). When the blood vessels constrict, it reduces nasal congestion. Rebound congestion from Afrin causes you to have more nasal congestion once the medication wears off.
Does Afrin clear sinuses? ›Afrin Allergy Sinus Nasal Spray contains ingredients that works to cool your sinuses with cooling menthol. Afrin Allergy Sinus Nasal Spray: Works for 12 hours. Relieves nasal congestion due to colds or allergies.
How do you stop Afrin from burning? ›
If you do experience a burning sensation that is particularly bothersome, your doctor may recommend that you stop using your nasal spray for a couple of days, or they may suggest a different spray for you.
Why is my nose still stuffy after using Afrin? ›"Once your blood vessels come to expect the vasoconstriction provided by the spray, it has this paradoxical effect where, as the medication wears off, the blood vessels react by swelling back up — causing what's called rebound' congestion."
Why use Afrin only 3 days? ›Afrin can be used up to twice daily. It should not be used for longer than three days as it can rapidly lose its effectiveness and lead to rebound congestion. Common side effects include headache, dizziness, nasal stinging or burning, drowsiness, shakiness, and sleep problems.
Does Afrin affect your sleep? ›Nasal decongestant sprays, like oxymetazoline (Afrin), are also widely available. One of the most common side effects of decongestants is insomnia (difficulty sleeping). This is mainly the case for oral decongestants.
How long after 3 days can I use Afrin again? ›Don't use a spray more than once every 12 hours, or longer than 3 days.
What happens if nasal spray goes down your throat? ›If a little saline nasal spray goes down your throat, it will not cause any harm. However, you should keep your head upright and use enough force on the pump bottles or pressurized canisters so the saline solution stays in your nose. Avoid tilting your head back when you use the spray.
Does Afrin raise blood pressure? ›Topical nasal decongestants such as Afrin (oxymetazoline), Neo-Synephrine (phenylephrine), Privine (naphazoline), and Vicks VapoRub Inhaler (l-desoxyephedrine/levmetamfetamine) can also cause an increase in blood pressure.