How to Use Nasal Sprays to Treat Dander Allergies

Dander causes allergies in much the same way other allergens do, with runny noses sneezing, swollen eyes and redness of the skin all being par for the course. For more serious forms of dander allergies, sufferers can experience symptoms like dizziness or nausea. However, the most common symptoms are centered on the sinuses. That's why it's possible to use nasal sprays to treat dander allergies.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Get prescription-strength, steroid-based nasal sprays you can use to treat your dander allergies. You can only get steroid nasal sprays from your doctor, and they are usually reserved for those with the very worst cases of dander allergies. Steroid nasal sprays are administered in the same was as other nasal sprays, but be aware they are sometimes known to cause nose bleeds and/or a sore throat after use.
2. Conduct an examination with your doctor to determine what nasal spray is right for your dander allergy. A battery of tests can be conducted, including a blood test and a skin test.
3. Blow your nose prior to using any nasal spray. This helps clear the nasal passages so the medication lands where it needs to, as opposed to collecting at the front of your nose.
4. Close off one nostril by placing a finger over it and pressing in firmly.
5. Insert the barrel of the nasal spray into the open nostril. It's important that you place it far enough in your nose to form an almost-complete seal. You'll need some space to let air in, but you'll also need enough closure to limit the amount of spray that is lost through the opening.
6. Inhale through the nostril with the nasal spray tube inserted.
7. Administer the nasal spray. This is done in a variety of ways, and how it's done depends on the manufacturer's packaging. Most often you will either need to squeeze the spray bottle or push the spray bottle up towards your nostril, which sets off an automatic pump.
8. Continue inhaling as you administer the nasal spray.
9. Block off your nose fully, pinching both nostrils shut after each spray to limit the amount that runs out of your nose. You may need to administer several sprays per nostril.
10. Repeat the procedure for the other nostril.

Tips & Warnings

• Try over-the-counter antihistamines and nasal decongestants before you use nasal sprays. Using nasal sprays can be uncomfortable for many, and they can sometimes be problematic to administer (often the medication can end up going down your throat).
• Don't use nasal sprays more than permitted in the directions of use. Using nasal sprays more often than safe can lead to damage of the sinuses, bloody nose, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.
• Don't use nasal sprays for any purpose other than the treatments for which they are prescribed. Abusing nasal sprays or any form of medication can have deadly consequences.