When a cold leaves you stuffed up, you can get fast relief from a nasal spray. But take a minute to learn the different types and how to use them. It can make all the difference in effectively clearing the blockage. Your nose will thank you.
Types of Nasal Sprays
There are several types of nasal sprays that can treat different symptoms:
Sinus decongestant spray. You can buy these over the counter or with a prescription from your doctor. They get rid of your stuffiness by narrowing blood vessels in the lining of your nose, which shrinks swollen tissues.
Don't use them for more than these days, or your cold symptoms could get worse. Doctors call this the "rebound effect."
Saline nasal spray. They're also called "saline" nasal sprays, and you can buy them without a prescription. They loosen up your mucus and keep it from getting crusty. Since they don't contain any medications, feel free to use them as often as you like.
Steroid nasal sprays. You can get these over the counter or with a prescription. They're approved to relieve allergy symptoms, but they're sometimes used to help clear a stuffed-up nose resulting from a sinus infection.
Combination nasal sprays. These sprays contain two or more medications, such as a decongestant and an antihistamine. They are available over the counter or by prescription, depending on the specific medications they contain.
Nasal anticholinergic sprays. This type of nasal spray is often used to treat a runny nose. It works by blocking the action of acetylcholine, a chemical that helps control the production of mucus in your nose. This can help reduce the amount of mucus that is produced, which can relieve a runny nose.
How Do You Use Nasal Sprays?
The first thing you need to do is to blow your nose to clear up the passages. Then, take the cap off the bottle and follow the directions for shaking or "priming" the pump, if necessary.
Now take these steps:
- Block one nostril by pressing a finger against it lightly.
- Put your thumb at the bottom of the pump bottle, with the hole at the top of the bottle facing your open nostril.
- Squeeze the pump and breathe in gently.
- Switch to the other side and repeat the process.
When you're done, don't blow your nose right away, and try not to sneeze. That will keep the medication in your nose.
Some sprays may have different instructions on the label, so use those or follow your doctor's directions.
How often can I use nasal spray?
That depends on the type of spray. Once or twice a day is a common dose. Always follow the directions on the label or your doctor's instructions.
Certain nasal sprays aren't meant for long-term use. Decongestant sprays containing oxymetazoline or phenylephrine shouldn't be used for more than three days. If you use them for a longer time, they could make you more congested.
Who Should Not Use Nasal Sprays?
A lot of over-the-counter decongestants, including sprays, aren't recommended for children. Read the labels carefully and talk to your pediatrician. Your doctor may tell you to avoid some nasal sprays if you have high blood pressure, diabetes, or thyroid problems. If you're pregnant, ask your doctor if a nasal decongestant is safe for you. You should avoid decongestants when breastfeeding.
Decongestant products, including nasal sprays, can raise blood pressure and pulse rate. They can also make you feel nervous or dizzy, or make it hard for you to sleep. Steroid nasal sprays can cause nosebleeds and, in rare cases, a change in your sense of smell. If you experience these side effects, you may want to ask your doctor about an alternative.
Some decongestants may interfere with other medications you take. Check with your doctor before you use them.
Takeaways
Several types of over-the-counter and prescription nasal sprays can help reduce inflammation, relieve allergies, clear congestion, and help ease a runny nose. Which type is right for you depends on your symptoms. Before using a nasal spray, read the instructions and ask your doctor's advice if you have any health conditions or take prescription medications.
Nasal Spray for Cold FAQs
Is it good to use nasal spray when you have a cold?
Using nasal spray when you have a cold can help clear congestion and stop a runny nose.
What is the best nasal decongestant for a cold?
Nasal sprays containing phenylephrine and oral decongestants containing pseudoephedrine are among the most effective options for a stuffy nose with a cold.
