Many of the Ear, Nose and Throat doctors that we know highly recommend nasal rinsing and nasal sprays for symptom relief.  Here’s a short article from Health Day at US News & World Report on helpful hints for using nasal sprays. 

(HealthDay News) — A nasal spray can help many allergy sufferers find relief from symptoms, but it’s important that the spray be used correctly.

The American Academy of Family Physicians mentions these suggestions when using a nasal spray:

• It may take as long as two weeks before you notice the spray’s full effect.
• At least once per week, wash the canister that delivers the spray.
• Before you spray, sniff air into each nostril to allow the medication to go deep inside the nose.
• Aim the spray straight toward the back of your head.
• If used correctly, the spray shouldn’t leak from your nose or down your throat.
• Stop using the spray for a few days if you have a nosebleed or feel pain in the nose.
• Use the medication as directed by your doctor, and store it out of direct sunlight.

For the article, click here. 

For nasal sprays from Allergy Control Products, check out our Sinus Relief products that are recommended by ENT’s across the country.

Sinus Rinses: Nasal and sinus irrigation has been around for thousands of years and many of us probably didn’t think much about it until Dr. Oz demonstrated the Neti Pot on Oprah a while back. Using a saline sinus rinse can help flush out allergens, bacteria, mucus, viruses and more for a healthy preventative tool and for soothing relief when you’re suffering from a cold, congestion or sinusitis. 

Face Mask: A face mask can be really helpful, especially if you choose a mask such as the AllergyZone N95 mask which is certified by the Center for Disease Control and was a recommended mask for protection from SARS. If you saw Dancing with the Stars during this fall 2009 season when the celebs and dancers were coming down with the flu, they were wearing masks when practicing and none of the partners seemed to get sick. 

Humidifers and Steam Inhalers: If the cold and cough have started up, a humidifier and/or a steam inhaler will give you soothing relief for dry airway passages. A humidifier will help alleviate dryness in a room, whereas a steam inhaler can be good for personalized steam therapy to soothe the throat and help reduce congestion. Some steam inhalers include medicated pads to release menthol or eucalyptus vapors for added relief.   

Remember to wash hands frequently as the best way to ward off exposures to germs and viruses!