Nasal Sprays Help During the Allergy Season

Allergies can be of various different types, it typically causes a runny nose, sneezing, and a few other symptoms. Nasal sprays are a quick fix and target nasal allergies directly. If your allergy symptoms mainly affect your nose, it might be the right choice for you. Let us learn more about the types of nasal sprays, their uses and side effects.

Types of nasal sprays for allergies

While all nasal sprays are similar in terms of use, the medications contained can have different purposes and you must pick the one that targets your specific symptoms and provides relief. Some examples of common types of nasal sprays are:

Steroid sprays
These reduce inflammation and can relieve allergy symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, and watery eyes.For best results one must use it at least once or twice a day over the course of several weeks and excess use will make people develop a bloody nose from using these sprays.

Antihistamine sprays
These can effectively block the effects of histamine, a substance that triggers allergy symptoms like sneezing, itching, and runny nose. It can cause drowsiness, so you must use it cautiously.

Decongestant sprays
These can shrink swollen, irritated blood vessels lining the nose and stop sneezing. Meant for short-term use, ideally not more than 3 days. These nasal sprays are also not a good fit for people who have glaucoma or high blood pressure, as they can worsen these conditions.

Anticholinergic sprays
The spray works on special receptors in the nose and helps dry up extra mucus. They are useful in treating runny nose related to seasonal allergies or other conditions. You can use them for about 3 weeks.

Mast cell inhibitor sprays
This is a type of mast cell inhibitor sprays, the cells release histamine which mediates allergy symptoms. You may use most cromolyn sodium sprays about once or twice daily.

How to use Nasal Sprays?

• To begin with, gently blow your nose and clear the mucus before using the spray.
• Shake the spray bottle well before using it.
• Keep your head upright, insert the canister tip into your nose, and spray.
• Use a finger to close the nostril on the side not receiving the medicine.
• Breathe in slowly through your nose and repeat for the other nostril.
• Try not to sneeze or blow your nose just after using the spray.
  

The researchers have found that nasal sprays were more effective in treating nasal allergy symptoms than oral medications.You can use nasal sprays in combination with other oral allergy medications to treat your allergies if doctor prescribes. You must consult the ENT specialist regarding the potential side effects that occur with these nasal sprays. Inform the doctor about your health condition and if you are taking any medications so that the sprays won’t interfere and cause any side effects.

Conclusion:
Nasal sprays can be effective in treating nasal allergy symptoms especially during season changes. You may need doctor-prescribed treatments if you notice allergy symptoms. Make sure that you buy over-the-counter treatments recommended by the doctor, check their expiry date and medical constituents. Nasal sprays lose effectiveness after 3 months of opening the seal and you must use it within time.