Using nasal sprays in patients with nasal and sinus inflammation is considered an effective treatment method. However, since sinusitis is a chronic condition, patients often need to use nasal sprays continuously for a long time, which raises questions such as “Is it harmful to use nasal sprays for a long time?” or “How should nasal sprays be used correctly?” and here… is the answer to those concerns!
What are steroid nasal sprays?
There are several types of nasal sprays, but the standard nasal spray for nasal and sinus diseases is the steroid nasal spray because it is a topical medication that provides the best anti-inflammatory effect. When sprayed into the nasal cavity, the steroid passes into the cells and binds to steroid receptors, affecting protein synthesis that inhibits cells and the secretion of chemicals related to inflammation.
Instructions for using “nasal sprays”
- If you have nasal discharge, blow your nose first or rinse your nose with saline solution thoroughly.
- Open the cap and shake the bottle vertically every time before use. If you just bought a new nasal spray, hold the bottle upright and spray into the air 2-3 times to expel air.
- Place your index and middle fingers on the shoulder of the spray bottle and your thumb at the bottom of the bottle.
- Slowly insert the tip of the nasal spray into the nostril, pointing the tip toward the inner corner of the eye on the same side as the nostril. Tilting the tip helps the medication contact the nasal mucosa on the side of the nasal cavity as much as possible and prevents the spray from hitting the nasal septum in the middle, which may cause side effects such as nasal septum ulcers and nosebleeds.
- Press the nasal spray quickly and firmly to disperse the medication as a fine mist.
- Repeat the same steps for the other nostril. If the doctor prescribes spraying each nostril twice, spray each nostril once until both sides are done, then repeat the second spray.
- Clean the nasal spray bottle with clean water, dry it, and replace the cap.
Is long-term use of nasal sprays dangerous?
Because nasal diseases treated with steroid nasal sprays are often chronic, requiring long-term continuous use, there is concern about whether long-term use of nasal sprays can cause harm. Dr. Davin Yaowapolkul, a specialist at the Ear, Nose, and Throat clinic and an expert in oral cancer treatment, explained that.. “Steroid nasal sprays are considered relatively safe steroids because they are topical medications with very low absorption into the bloodstream. However, they should be used under a doctor’s guidance and used correctly.”
Because all medications can cause side effects if used unnecessarily or incorrectly, it is important to see a specialist for a thorough diagnosis to ensure patients receive targeted treatment before the disease progresses to a more serious condition!
