How to use a nasal spray correctly
nasal spray · spray in the nose · how to use a nose spray · nose drops · spray for a runny nose
How to use a nose spray so the medicine goes inside your nose and does not run down your throat.
When your doctor has prescribed a spray for a runny nose, allergy, sinusitis or other reasons.
⏱ Duration: the procedure itself takes less than a minute
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Nose. Gently blow your nose before using the spray.
- Bottle. A new bottle usually needs a few sprays into the air first - see the instructions.
- Children. Children need a children's form and dose - ask the pediatrician.
What to bring
- The spray
- Tissues
How it goes
- Blow your nose
- Shake the bottle, if the instructions say so
- Tilt your head slightly forward
- Put the tip into one nostril and press the other with a finger
- Point the tip toward the ear on the same side, not toward the middle wall of the nose
- Press and at the same time breathe in gently through your nose
- Repeat for the other nostril and wipe the tip
What you'll feel
- Sometimes mild stinging or a taste in the mouth
- If it runs down your throat - you breathed in too hard or tipped your head back
Afterwards
- Do not sniff hard right after the spray
- Decongestant sprays are usually not used longer than a few days - ask your doctor
- Do not share a bottle with other people
Contact a doctor straight away if
- A nosebleed that does not stop for 20 minutes - call your local emergency number
- Swelling of the face or trouble breathing - call your local emergency number
Common questions
Why not spray toward the middle wall?
That irritates the lining and can cause bleeding. Pointing toward the ear is safer.
Can I get used to a spray?
To decongestant ones, yes, if used for a long time. Tell your doctor if you cannot manage without it.