The technique for properly spraying corticosteroids nasally must be taught to patients in order to promote compliance with treatment in the context of pathologies such as allergic rhinitis or chronic rhinosinusitis requiring their use for several weeks. These treatments are in fact very frequently (more than 10%) responsible for nosebleeds and, frequently (between 1 and 10%), for nasal irritation and dryness.
To limit these undesirable effects, in particular the risk of epistaxis, the corticosteroid must be sprayed by directing the spray horizontally towards the outside of the nostril, towards the turbinates, with the head slightly tilted forward, which limits passage. of the product in the throat and the sensation of an unpleasant taste in the mouth. To facilitate this administration, it may be suggested to spray into the right nostril with the left hand, and vice versa, so that the jet is not directed towards the richly vascularized nasal septum. Once sprayed, recommend inhaling gently without blowing your nose for the next few minutes. If necessary, wipe off only the excess solution with a tissue.
Sources: “Diagnostic and therapeutic management of allergic rhinitis by the ENT”, French Society of Otorhinolaryngology and Face and Neck Surgery, 2020; “Allergic rhinitis”, Geneva University Hospitals, 2017; “Use of intranasal corticosteroids”, Canadian Medical Association Journal, 2021; public drug database.
