For a nasal steroid or antihistamine
- Read the bottle’s directions. Shake and prime it if instructed.
- Gently clear your nose. If you also rinse, do that first.
- Tilt your head slightly forward. Point the nozzle outward, away from the septum, the middle wall. Using the opposite hand can help the angle.
- Breathe in gently as directed. A hard sniff can carry the medicine toward your throat.
- Wipe the nozzle and replace its cover. Do not share your bottle.
Follow the instructions for your particular spray
The steps above concern common allergy sprays. Decongestant bottles and other devices can use different head positions and inhalation instructions. The product instructions take priority.
A few doses are not always a fair trial
Daily nasal steroids need consistent use. But a label’s stop-and-ask threshold still applies. Fluticasone and triamcinolone OTC guidance asks for clinician advice if symptoms are not better after a week of daily use.
Correct technique without restarting an unlimited trial. Frequent bleeding, worsening symptoms or a painful nose needs review.