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Nasal sprays deposit allergy medication right where you need it – directly on the lining of nasal passages. This gives you maximum benefits of the medication – relieving and preventing nasal congestion, runny nose and sneezing – with minimal side effects because there’s no need to medicate your entire body just to clear up your nose.
Nasal sprays come in two basic types: traditional water-based solutions in a pump spray and waterless “dry” aerosols in canister sprays with dose counters.
Proper technique is critical to get results you need for relief from symptoms.
Nasal Spray Step-by-Step Instructions
Read the package insert instructions for patients before using the first time, as each medication is different. Look for information on how to prime and clean; how to hold and position the canister or pump; and whether to inhale or not.
- Prime the spray as directed before the first use or if you haven’t used it in a while.
- Blow your nose gently to clear out mucus before using the spray. This will allow the medicine to get up into the nasal passages. If you are severely congested, you may need a nasal wash or a decongestant for a few days to open up your nose before you 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.) Point it away from the center of your nose, toward your ear, ensuring the spray reaches the back of your nose and less medicine ends up on your septum (the tissue separating the two sides of your nose), which can be damaging. Try holding the spray with your left hand when applying to the right nostril, then switch for the other side.
- Lean forward slightly, press and close the nostril you are not treating. If instructed, inhale gently through the other nostril as you release the spray. Some nasal sprays do not require you to inhale; others may recommend you lean your head back instead of forward.
- Exhale through your mouth. Do not blow your nose for at least 15 minutes after using the spray; just wipe away any liquid that drips.
- Wipe the spray tip clean after every use and replace the cap. If it becomes clogged, check your manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning, but do not use a pin or other instrument to enlarge the hole.
- Keep track of the doses and priming sprays used and replace your nasal spray after you have used the recommended number. There may be liquid left in the container after all the doses have been used, but the medication mix is not likely to be accurate.
How to Choose the Right Nasal Spray for Dust Allergies
What is dust allergy?
Folks who have dust allergies are quite familiar with symptoms like sneezing, a problem in breathing, stuffy or running nose, itchiness in eyes, and so on. Those who are highly allergic may develop asthma symptoms like coughing, wheezing, tightness in the chest, as well as falling short of breath. Some people might also feel itchy due to dust allergies.
Symptoms of dust allergy
These are some of the common symptoms of dust allergy:
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Red, teary, or itchy eyes
- Sneezing
- Itching
- Coughing, wheezing, tightness in the chest, and shortness of breath
How dust allergies get triggered?
- Dust mites
- Mold
- Pollen
- Cockroaches
- Pet hair fur or feathers
Treatment for dust allergy
If you think you have allergies to any of the above-mentioned things, and then you need to consult with a specialist as soon as possible. The best treatment for allergies is to buy a nasal spray for dust allergy which would provide the fastest relief in less than a minute. It is far better than using a pill. You can easily buy a nasal spray for dust allergy from a pharmacy or can ask your doctor to prescribe one to you as per your condition and allergy.
There are various types of nasal sprays available in the market and some of the commonly used ones are listed below:
Decongestant sprays
You can choose to buy a decongestant nasal spray for dust allergy from any pharmacies. These sprays help in shrinking the swollen blood vessels as well as tissues in your nose which are causing the congestion. Some of the examples of these medicines are Oxymetazoline hydrochloride, Phenylephrine Hydrochloride, etc. However, i t’s not suggested to use decongestant nasal sprays for more than three days. In case you will use it for a longer time, it might result in causing the blockage. Moreover, consult your doctor before using it especially if you have high blood pressure or glaucoma.
Antihistamine sprays
These are used to relieve congestion, runny nose, itchy, as well as sneezing. You can only buy this nasal spray for dust allergy if you have a doctor’s prescription. It consists of Olopatadine and Azelastine. It causes less drowsiness as compared to the antihistamine pills but it depends on people. Some might feel really sleepy whereas some might not.
Steroid nasal sprays
They are used to provide better breathing by reducing the swelling in your nose. It also helps in stopping a drippy nose. It is one of the most common drugs which are being recommended for most of the allergies. However, it will take few days or maybe a few weeks before you will start noticing that your symptoms are getting better. Some of the examples of these sprays which are available only on prescription are Ciclesonide, Beclomethasone, Fluticasone Propionate, and others. Some people might have side effects like a headache, cough, nosebleed, and sore throat.
NasalCrom or Cromolyn Sodium
It prevents your body from releasing histamine which is responsible for causing allergy symptoms like sneezing and runny nose. You can even feel better if you use it for a stuffy nose. It might take 30 minutes to show results. You need to start using it 1–2 weeks before the allergy season starts in order to see the best results. You need to use it at least one or more times in a day. It might not work as well as steroid nasal sprays but it is still quite effective.
You can easily buy this nasal spray for dust allergy from a drugstore. It is considered as one of the safest drugs for most of the people. You need to consult with your doctor before using it in case you have asthma, wheezing or sinus pain. Some of its side effects might include nasal burning and sneezing.
Atrovent nasal or ipratropium nasal
One can get this spray on prescription only. It helps in treating a runny nose as well as stops the production of mucus. It might not be a good option to get relief from sneezing or congestion. Those who are dealing with enlarged prostate or glaucoma are not advised to use this spray. Some people might witness a few side effects of using it like a sore throat, nasal irritation, nosebleeds, and headache.
How to manage dust allergy?
Managing a dust allergy doesn’t require a lot of efforts, one just needs to avoid few things which might cause the allergic reactions. Some of the tips to reduce the exposure to indoor dust are listed below:
- Use wood flooring and use wall-to-wall carpets wherever possible
- Keep your house clean with the help of a vacuum cleaner to avoid spreading dust
- You can also use mite-proof cases on your pillows and mattresses
- Use hot water to clean your bed linens and wash them on a regular basis
- Use HEPA air cleaner in case you are highly allergic to dust and other particles
- Keep animals out of the allergic person’s room
Use these simple tips to avoid the allergy and use the nasal sprays to overcome the allergy.
‘Tis the season. Allergy season, that is. Pollen is in the air. Freshly cut grass lines the sidewalks. Then there’s you — sneezing and sniffling.
When allergies strike, you already know the drill: Grab some allergy meds and the softest facial tissue you can find. But after staring at the sea of over-the-counter allergy medicine options, most of us will leave the drug store wondering: Did I even buy the right thing?
To effectively fight allergies, you’ll first want to be sure it’s indeed allergies, and not a cold or even the flu. And given that we’re in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s also important to know which symptoms separate allergies from COVID-19.
The symptoms of allergies include:
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Nasal congestion
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
- Scratchy throat
“Allergies occur when things in the air around you, such as pollen and grass, cause your nasal passages to become inflamed,” says Dr. Brad Hays, primary care physician at Houston Methodist. “For most people, they’re easily treated with over-the-counter allergy medicine.”
Whether your allergies are seasonal or just a one-time thing, Dr. Hays is here to help you navigate the options you’ll find in the allergy medicine aisle.
Step 1: Take an antihistamine — but choose the right one
As soon as allergy symptoms set in, Dr. Hays says your first line of defense should be antihistamines.
“Antihistamines are really effective for treating allergies,” says Dr. Hays. “They need to be taken every day while you’re experiencing symptoms, and people with seasonal allergies should proactively take them throughout both the fall and spring allergy seasons.”
There are two things you need to know when it comes to choosing the right antihistamine. Dr. Hays says the best antihistamines are ones that are long-acting and non-sedating. To find one that meets this criteria, look for the following types of antihistamines:
- Cetirizine
- Fexofenadine
- Levocetirizine
- Loratadine
Some antihistamine drugs — such as diphenhydramine — are effective, but can make you very drowsy. Dr. Hays recommends taking this type of antihistamine only before bed.
Whether you’re buying name-brand or generic, the antihistamine drug name will be mentioned somewhere on the box — typically on the front.
“One of the main advantages of antihistamines is that they help with the majority, if not all, of your allergy symptoms,” Dr. Hays explains. “In addition, they kick in pretty quickly. You should notice a reduction in your symptoms in just a few hours.”
Step 2: Add a nasal steroid spray
Antihistamines can relieve the mild congestion that comes along with most bouts of allergies, but some people may experience more severe congestion. If this sounds like you, Dr. Hays recommends using a nasal steroid spray in addition to taking an antihistamine.
Until recently, nasal steroid sprays were offered only by prescription. Now, there are a few you can buy over-the-counter, including:
- Budesonide
- Fluticasone
- Triamcinolone
“Nasal steroid sprays won’t help with all of your allergy symptoms, such as itchy and watery eyes, but they do help with nasal congestion, post-nasal drip and scratchy throat,” Dr. Hays explains.
Just like antihistamines, Dr. Hays says that nasal steroid sprays need to be used every day to be effective. The good news is that they’re also generally safe and well-tolerated.
“However, unlike antihistamines, nasal steroid sprays don’t provide quick relief from allergy symptoms,” Dr. Hays says. “It can take a few days for a nasal steroid spray to take effect.”
Step 3: If your allergy symptoms worsen, see a doctor
“A long-acting antihistamine, either alone or in combination with a nasal steroid spray, will relieve most people’s allergy symptoms,” says Dr. Hays.
If you’re taking over-the-counter allergy medicines and your symptoms continue or worsen, it may be a sign of a more serious condition, such as chronic sinus infections or sinus polyps. Follow up with your doctor if your symptoms are serious or frequent.
FLONASE ALLERGY RELIEF NASAL SPRAY
The same trusted, #1 prescribed allergy medicine †† you’ve always relied on, available over-the-counter. No prescription necessary.
WHY CHOOSE FLONASE ALLERGY RELIEF?
Most allergy pills don’t finish the job because they don’t relieve nasal congestion. FLONASE relieves the worst allergy symptoms, including nasal congestion, plus sneezing, itchy, watery eyes, and runny nose.
- The #1 doctor-recommended brand in allergy relief **
- Helps block 6 allergic substances, most allergy pills only block 1. †
- Available in 72, 144, or 2×144 sprays per bottles
*FLONASE relieves nasal congestion, sneezing, runny nose, itchy nose, itchy eyes and watery eyes
**Among OTC Allergy Medications based on most recent physician’s survey dated 6/23/17
† Mechanism vs most over-the-counter (OTC) allergy pills. FLONASE nasal sprays act on multiple inflammatory substances (histamine, cytokine, tryptases, chemokine, and leukotrienes). The exact number and precise mechanism are unknown.
† † Based on IMS Health Monthly TRx Allergy Market for 12-month period ending 4/30/2020.
‡ vs single-ingredient antihistamines which do not treat nasal congestion.
‡‡ FLONASE is indicated for itchy, watery eyes in adults and children 12 years of age and older.
SEE HOW ONCE-DAILY FLONASE COMPARES TO OTHER ALLERGY MEDICINES
Geta quick overview of the advantages of FLONASE Allergy Relief nasal spray vs. other
over-the-counter allergy medicines to help you choose the right allergy relief for you.
Zyrtec, Claritin, Allegra, Nasacort, Clarispray, and Rhinocort are trademarks of their respective companies.
Traditionally, antihistamine pills were the go-to allergy medication, but these single-ingredient capsules only target histamine — just one of the inflammatory substances your immune system releases in response to allergens, and which cause your symptoms. 1
FLONASE nose sprays counteract six of these inflammatory substances, including histamine, to bring you more wide-ranging allergy relief — even for tough symptoms like nasal congestion.
What’s more, FLONASE allergy nasal sprays are applied directly at the source, in your nose. Find out more about nasal sprays vs. capsules.
Get a quick overview of the advantages of FLONASE Allergy Relief nasal spray vs. other over-the-counter allergy medicines to help you choose the best allergy relief for you.
In this Article
- Nasal Sprays
- Allergy Pills
In a perfect world, you could avoid whatever triggers your allergies. Because that’s not always possible, there are lots of treatment options. Which should you choose?
Many types of allergy pills or nasal spray are available with or without a prescription. Both work best if you use them before you’re around your triggers.
Nasal Sprays
These rarely have side effects except for maybe an irritated nose or a bitter taste in your mouth. You can try a moisturizing nasal gel after you use the spray or switch to a different type if your nose gets irritated. Talk to your doctor if they bother you.
Saline spray. Salt water sprays can rinse away allergens, ease stuffiness, and loosen mucus. You can buy them over-the-counter. They don’t have medication in them, just water and salt.
Steroid spray. These can help with most allergy symptoms like sneezing, itching, runny nose, and congestion (stuffiness). Because they are so effective and rarely have side effects, they are a very popular allergy treatment. They are often the first things doctors recommend along with taking an antihistamine.
They may start to work right away. But for some people, it can take 1-2 weeks before they help you feel better. To help them work their best, use them every day.
Antihistamine spray. These prescription sprays usually work within minutes and can ease postnasal drip, congestion, and sneezing. You can use them every day or just when you have symptoms.
Decongestant spray. These prescription and nonprescription sprays can help unclog stuffy noses by reducing boggy swelling inside your nasal passages. Don’t use them for more than 3 days to avoid “rebound congestion” which is a worsening of your symptoms when you stop..
Cromolyn sodium spray. These nonprescription sprays (such as Nasalcrom) help prevent allergy symptoms. They calm some of the body’s reaction to allergens. You usually have to use them for a few days before they start to work.
Allergy Pills
You may want to try these on their own or with a nasal spray to get allergy relief.
Antihistamines. Prescription and nonprescription antihistamines can help if you sneeze, itch, and have a runny nose. But they don’t ease congestion. Newer prescription antihistamines are less likely to make you drowsy. Sometimes your doctor will suggest these together with a decongestant and maybe a steroid nasal spray.
Decongestants. They shrink swollen nasal tissues and relieve stuffy noses. Decongestants don’t usually work as quickly in pill form as they do in sprays.
These drugs can raise blood pressure, so talk to your doctor before taking them, especially if you have high blood pressure.
Combination pills. Some drugs combine decongestants and antihistamines to ease many symptoms. They can relieve itching, sneezing, and a runny, stuffy nose.
Triamcinolone acetonide 55 mcg (glucocorticoid)
Allergy symptom reliever
temporarily relieves these symptoms of hay fever or other upper respiratory allergies:
• nasal congestion • runny nose • sneezing • itchy nose
Do not use
Ask a doctor before use if you
When using this product
Stop use and ask a doctor if
If pregnant or breast-feeding,
ask a health professional before use.
Keep out of reach of children.
In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away (1-800-222-1222).
Read insert (inside package) on how to:
• get a new bottle ready (primed) before first use • prime bottle again if not used for more than 2 weeks • use the spray • clean the spray nozzle
