Nasal sprays can help with nasal breathing by providing relief from nasal congestion and other nasal symptoms. They work by delivering medication or saline solution directly into the nasal passages.

Different categories of nasal sprays

• Decongestants: Nasal sprays containing decongestants, such as oxymetazoline or phenylephrine, work by constricting the blood vessels in the nasal passages. This constriction reduces swelling and congestion, allowing for easier airflow through the nose.
• Anti-inflammatory: Some nasal sprays contain corticosteroids, such as fluticasone or budesonide, which help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages. Inflammation can cause nasal congestion, and by reducing it, these sprays alleviate the blockage and improve breathing.
• Moisturization: Saline nasal sprays, which contain a saltwater solution, help moisturize the nasal passages. Dry nasal passages can lead to discomfort and blockage, making it harder to breathe. Saline sprays add moisture, thin mucus, and promote nasal health, making breathing easier.

How long do nasal sprays take to work?

The onset of action for nasal sprays can vary depending on the specific medication and the individual's response. However, in general, nasal sprays designed to relieve nasal congestion and improve breathing may start providing some relief within minutes to hours after application.

• Decongestant nasal sprays, such as those containing oxymetazoline or phenylephrine, typically work relatively quickly. You may begin to experience relief from nasal congestion and improved breathing within minutes of using these sprays. However, it's important to note that the duration of relief may vary, and the effects may wear off after a few hours.
• Inflammatory nasal sprays, sprays containing corticosteroids, which are often prescribed for reducing inflammation and managing nasal allergies, may take longer to produce noticeable effects. It usually takes several days of regular use for corticosteroid nasal sprays to reach their full effectiveness. In some cases, it may take up to a week or more for the symptoms to improve significantly.
• Moisturizing nasal sprays, Saline sprays, which are used to moisturize and irrigate the nasal passages, can provide immediate relief by moistening the nasal tissues and thinning mucus. However, the effects may be temporary and may not directly address underlying congestion or inflammation.

Administration technique

1. Shake the bottle well before each use.
2. Clear your nose prior to administration.
3. Most important: direct the spray toward to back of your head and not towards the top of your head at the time of spray.
4. Spray the prescribed dose into the nostril while breathing in gently.
5. Repeat the process for the other nostril.
6. Avoid blowing your nose immediately after using the spray to allow the medication or saline to work effectively.

When to try a different nasal spray

If you've been using a nasal spray as directed for a reasonable amount of time (approximately 7-10 days consistently), but you're not experiencing sufficient relief from your nasal symptoms, it may be worth exploring alternative options. Different nasal sprays have varying formulations and mechanisms of action, so switching to a different one may provide better results for you.

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Side effects of nasal sprays

• Common side effects can include nasal dryness, irritation, or stinging sensations. If you find that a particular nasal spray is causing bothersome side effects that are interfering with your comfort or quality of life, it may be appropriate to try a different one that is better tolerated.
• Allergic reactions: Although rare, some people may develop allergic reactions to specific ingredients in nasal sprays. If you experience symptoms like itching, rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing after using a nasal spray, discontinue its use immediately and seek medical attention. Your healthcare provider can help determine if you need to switch to a different nasal spray or explore alternative treatments.
• Overusing decongestant nasal sprays, in particular, can lead to a condition called rebound congestion, where the nasal passages become even more congested after the effects of the spray wear off.

Testing the efficacy of the nasal spray

If the nasal spray is working for you, you should notice a few things:

• Symptoms of snoring may be reduced, especially if you are breathing exclusively through your nose.
• If you are using a CPAP machine, the airflow from the machine should feel less resistive.
• From your Ring, the Apnea Hypopnea Index (AHI) should may down to some extent.  This suggests there are fewer pauses in breathing, therefore your breathing during sleep is healthier
• You should notice an improvement in overall sleep quality, displayed as SQI.

It's worth noting that nasal sprays should be used as directed and for the recommended duration.  If you have any concerns or questions about using nasal sprays, it's best to consult with your Empower Sleep care team.

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Resources

• PMID: 36648937 ; DOI: 10.1001/jamapediatrics.2022.5258 ; Effectiveness of Intranasal Mometasone Furoate vs Saline for Sleep-Disordered Breathing in Children: A Randomized Clinical Trial

• PMID: 32713164  ; DOI: 10.1002/alr.22658; Topical nasal treatment efficacy on adult obstructive sleep apnea severity: a systematic review and meta-analysis