Nasal spray how does it work

Choosing the right spray and using it properly are key to sinus treatment. Being able to breathe through your nose is important for many reasons.

That's why over-the-counter nose sprays can be an important part of sinusitis treatment. The mucous membranes that line your nose and sinuses can become swollen and congested in response to viruses, allergies, and bacteria. In response, your nose and sinuses produce more mucus in an attempt to protect you. If your nasal and sinus secretions are too dry, sinus pain, nasal congestion, sinusitis , and other symptoms can develop.

Nasal congestion can also block the drainage of your middle ear space, which can in turn cause an ear infection. And "breathing through your mouth can make lung conditions like asthma and bronchitis worse," says Dr. Using an over-the-counter nasal spray can keep these delicate structures moist. You can use these instructions for using nasal spray yourself. To help your nasal spray work well, follow these instructions and any directions on the nasal spray label or from your doctor or pharmacist.

These steps can help you use your nasal spray easily and safely. You may be worried about nasal spray addiction if you find yourself repeatedly reaching for your decongestant. Could it be rebound congestion instead? Nasal decongestants can cause rebound congestion. In short, this occurs when the medication squeezes blood from your nasal tissues. It seems like you…. Nasal sprays can be effective in treating nasal allergy symptoms that may affect you seasonally.

Learn about the different types of sprays, how they…. Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Your favorite nasal spray works by shrinking the blood vessels and tissues in the sinuses, which a cold, allergies or the flu can cause to become swollen and inflamed.

Here are a few other suggestions for using a nasal spray:. Afterward, try to avoid blowing your nose or sneezing, and if necessary, sniff hard a few times to ensure the product remains inside and can go to work. You never want to share your product with someone else. Have you ever used a nasal spray for days on end and all of a sudden you stopped feeling relief?

What you may have experienced is called the rebound effect. Along with that comes common minor side effects, too.