A Step-by-Step Guide: How to spray Flonase correctly?

According to some medical experts, many people use nasal sprays incorrectly, which can reduce their effectiveness. To ensure you receive the maximum benefits, it's crucial to learn how to spray Flonase correctly and target the medication where it’s most needed.

Quick Summary

Mastering the proper technique for using Flonase is essential for effective allergy relief. Correct preparation, proper head position, and careful angling of the nozzle ensure the medication reaches inflamed sinuses rather than dripping down your throat.

Key Points

• Prime Before First Use: Always prime a new or unused bottle by spraying it into the air until a fine mist appears.

• Aim Away from the Center: Point the spray nozzle toward the outer wall of your nostril, not the nasal septum, to prevent irritation and nosebleeds.

• Tilt Head Forward, Not Back: Keep your head tilted slightly forward during application to ensure the medicine stays in your nose and doesn't run down your throat.

• Breathe Gently While Spraying: Inhale slowly as you spray; hard sniffing or snorting will cause the medication to go down your throat, reducing its efficacy.

• Clean the Nozzle Weekly: To prevent clogs and bacterial buildup, remove and rinse the spray nozzle under warm water at least once a week.

• Don't Blow Your Nose Immediately: Wait at least 5-10 minutes after spraying before blowing your nose to allow the medication to absorb.

Preparing Your Flonase for First-Time Use

Before the first dose, or if the bottle has not been used for more than a week, you must properly prepare it. This step ensures you get a full and even dose of medication every time.

Here’s a detailed list of priming steps:

• Shake the bottle: Gently shake the bottle for about 10 seconds to mix the contents thoroughly.
• Remove the cap: Take off the protective cap from the spray nozzle.
• Prime the pump: Aim the bottle away from your face and press down firmly on the applicator pump several times until a fine mist appears. For Flonase Allergy Relief, this can take up to six pumps. If a mist doesn't appear after several pumps, the nozzle may be clogged and needs to be cleaned.

The Correct Flonase Spraying Technique

Proper technique ensures the medicine coats the inflamed nasal passages and sinuses, not the middle of your nose or the back of your throat.

Here is a list of steps for effective application:

1. Clear your nostrils: Gently blow your nose to remove any excess mucus.
2. Position your head: Tilt your head slightly forward, keeping your chin tucked toward your chest, so that the nose is in line with your toes. This position prevents the medication from running down your throat.
3. Close one nostril: Gently press on one side of your nose with a finger to close the nostril you are not spraying.
4. Insert and angle the nozzle: Insert just the tip of the nozzle into the open nostril. Crucially, aim the nozzle toward the side of your nose, away from the septum (the cartilage dividing your nostrils) and toward the outer wall of your nostril. An effective method is to use your right hand for your left nostril and your left hand for your right nostril.
5. Spray while breathing gently: As you press down firmly on the pump to deliver the spray, breathe in slowly and gently through your nose. Do not sniff hard or 'snort' the medication, as this will cause it to go down your throat.
6. Breathe out slowly: After spraying, exhale slowly through your mouth.
7. Repeat for other nostril: Follow the same steps for the opposite nostril.

Avoid These Common Mistakes

Incorrect usage can lead to poor results and unwanted side effects. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Spraying directly onto the septum: Aiming the spray toward the middle partition of your nose can cause irritation and nosebleeds over time. The correct technique aims the spray outward.
• Tilting your head back: This causes the medicine to drain down the back of your throat, reducing its effectiveness and often leaving an unpleasant taste. Keep your head tilted slightly forward.
• Hard sniffing: Vigorously inhaling during the spray can send the medication directly into your throat. A gentle sniff is all that is needed to keep the mist in the nasal passages.
• Blowing your nose immediately after: Blowing your nose too soon after spraying will expel the medication before it has a chance to work. Wait at least 5 to 10 minutes before blowing your nose.

Flonase vs. Flonase Sensimist: A Comparison

While both medications use fluticasone, they have slightly different formulations and applicators. Understanding the differences can help you choose the right one for your needs.

Feature	Flonase (Fluticasone Propionate)	Flonase Sensimist (Fluticasone Furoate)
Spray Type	Fine, misty spray	Gentle, finer mist
Pediatric Use	Ages 4 and older	Ages 2 and older
Key Difference	Standard pump delivery	Ergonomically designed, softer mist applicator

Keeping Your Spray Clean and Effective

To ensure your Flonase remains hygienic and effective, weekly cleaning of the nozzle is recommended. Never use a sharp object to clean the nozzle, as this can damage the device.

To clean your Flonase nozzle:

1. Remove the spray nozzle by grasping the base and pulling straight up.
2. Rinse the nozzle under running warm water.
3. Allow the nozzle to air dry completely at room temperature.
4. Once dry, replace the nozzle by gently pushing it back into place until it clicks.
5. Reprime the pump before the next use.

Conclusion

Mastering the proper technique for using your nasal spray is key to unlocking its full potential for treating allergy symptoms. By following the correct steps for preparation, application, and maintenance, you can ensure the medication is delivered effectively to the target areas in your nasal passages. For more product details and instructions, you can consult the official Flonase website.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prime a new Flonase bottle?

To prime a new Flonase bottle, shake it gently, remove the cap, and pump the applicator away from your face until a fine mist appears. This usually takes about six pumps.

What is the correct head position when spraying Flonase?

Tilt your head slightly forward with your chin toward your chest, aligning your nose with your toes. This position helps the medication stay in your nasal passages.

What happens if I spray Flonase incorrectly?

Spraying incorrectly, such as pointing toward the center of your nose or tilting your head back, can cause the medication to drain down your throat, leading to an unpleasant taste and reduced effectiveness.

How often should I clean the Flonase nozzle?

It is recommended to clean the spray nozzle weekly, or whenever it appears clogged, by rinsing it under warm running water and allowing it to air dry.

How long does it take for Flonase to start working?

For maximum benefit, it's recommended to take Flonase daily. It may take several days for you to feel significant relief, with the full effect often felt within a week.

What is the recommended usage for Flonase Allergy Relief?

For adults and children 12 and older, the initial recommended usage is typically multiple sprays per nostril once daily. This may be reduced to fewer sprays per nostril once daily as needed.

Can I use Flonase for post-nasal drip?

Yes, Flonase is effective for treating post-nasal drip when used correctly, as it helps reduce the inflammation in the nasal passages that contributes to the dripping sensation.