Nasal steroid spray: Overview
Your doctor may suggest using a corticosteroid nasal spray for your allergy symptoms or sinus problems.
These sprays reduce the swelling inside the nose and sinuses. Unlike decongestant nasal sprays, steroid sprays won't lead to more swelling when you stop taking them.
These sprays start working in a few days, but it may take several weeks before you get the full effect.
Most side effects are minor. The most common complaint is a burning feeling in the nose right after the spray is used. Some people get nosebleeds.
How to use a corticosteroid nasal spray
Corticosteroid nasal sprays (such as Flonase, Nasacort, and Nasonex) are used to help allergy symptoms like a runny or stuffy nose. They help reduce inflammation in the nose. They start working quickly, but it may be several weeks before you get the full effect. Here are some tips for using these sprays:
- You may need to prime the sprayer before you use it. This means spraying it into the air a few times to make sure you get the right amount of medicine. Follow the directions on the label.
- Blow your nose before you spray. This will help clear out your nostrils.
- Gently sniff the medicine into your nose as you spray. Don't snort, or the medicine will go all the way into your throat where it won't do much good.
- 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. And try not to sneeze.
- Clean your sprayer once a week. The label will tell you how.
Corticosteroid nasal sprays: When to call
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if you have any problems.
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