What do you use when you feel your nose is running and congestion becomes unbearable? Earlier, the only prerogative of effective congestion treatment was nasal drops. Yet, they were not as convenient as it was desired. That’s why the advent of nasal sprays was a true breakthrough. Easy to use, effectively covering the whole mucous surface with active compounds, compact, and diverse, they have won the leadership in congestion treatment.
However, what about a spray product that impacts both your nose and your throat? Such medications are called nasopharyngeal, and they provide a double action that brings relief and supports your wellness. So, what do you need to know about a nasopharyngeal spray, and how to use this OTC medication properly? Let’s clarify it.
Types of Nasopharyngeal Sprays
What is useful to know about such sprays? First, is that they rinse both the mucous of the nasal ducts and the throat. Then, what profit do they provide you with? This depends on the type and the formula of the spray.
- Saline (also known as sea salt solutions). Such sprays rinse the mucous with a salted seawater-based solution that mildly soothes and hydrates the respiratory system.
- Moisturizing sprays often contain hyaluronic acid that moisturizes the mucus of your nose and throat if they are overdried.
- Herbal sprays are often oil-based and contain herbal extracts that provide soothing and healing action. Often, these sprays contain cyclamen, menthol, sage, or chamomile extracts that are healing herbs.
- Antiseptic sprays can be helpful for the treatment of respiratory infections.
Proper Application and Safety Measures
In any case, nasopharyngeal sprays, although they are mostly OTCs, need proper and accurate application.
- Always warm the spray before using. Typically, such medication needs to be stored in a cool place, but using it when it is cooled is not a good idea.
- Use the spray with a personal hose or use it only personally. This is a hygienic requirement because shared use can lead to bacterial dispersion or infections.
- Correct spraying technique is the following: shake the spray, then insert the hose into the nasal duct and press on it to rinse the surface. Try to breathe deeply after that to transport the spray throughout the throat and nasal ducts.
- Depending on the type of spray, the frequency of use may vary. Saline solutions can be used anytime you need extra hydration. Decongestant sprays are typically used 2-3 times a day for a limited period (indicated in the medication’s instructions). Steroid sprays for allergy management are used daily and provide a cumulative effect.
Additional Nasal Care Tips to Consider
Nasopharyngeal sprays are effective, but you can make them even more efficient with the help of special respiratory care tips.
1. Maintaining the humidity is the key to success. When you breathe humid air, it cleanses your nasal ducts and eases breathing.
2. Proper hydration is a must. Often, dried nasal mucosa occurs because of insufficient hydration.
3. Avoiding overuse is also feasible. At least, you’ll get overdosed, but it can also lead to secondary medicated rhinitis or addiction to the medication.
Conclusion
Nasopharyngeal sprays provide an effective soothing and decongestant action on the respiratory system. However, only the proper selection of such a medication and its thoughtful use bring fruit. That’s why you should always consider the symptoms you experience, read the product’s label and follow a proper dosage and treatment duration to get relief.
