Allergy spray is a device that releases allergy medication in a mist form into a person’s nose. It is used to treat various nasal allergies, such as allergies to dust, pollen or dead skin from certain animals. Allergy spray can also sometimes help clear symptoms of the common cold, such as a stuffy or drippy nose.
Allergies range from mild to severe, and are a form of hypersensitivity that can cause red eyes, ear infection, inflamed sinuses and other afflictions. Unlike the immune system which protects the body, allergies attack the body causing a flare up. In this case, the body reacts to substances that are usually considered harmless, such as pet hair. Many people around the world suffer from allergies and there are different treatments available.
When the body comes in contact with certain elements, it may release an excessive amount of histamine, which is a chemical that worsens the condition. To help fight this problem, allergy sprays release antihistamines, which are a substance that works quickly against histamine during an allergic reaction. Nasal steroids, on the other hand, typically fight the condition over a year-long period of time. Many nasal sprays have a rebound effect that worsens the symptoms if a person suddenly stops using them, but this type of steroid usually does not pose such a risk.
Another type of allergy medication is nasal ipratropium, which treats symptoms by drying up nasal flow that can irritate allergies further. This property also makes it useful for drying up a drippy nose from a common cold, although it usually can not help nasal congestion. Many people choose this type of drug because of its dual purpose.
Like most nasal sprays, allergy spray has a few potential side effects. Usually, the most common adverse reactions are nose bleeds and a burning sensation from the medicine dripping down the throat. Most of these irritations can be prevented by using the spray properly.
Allergy spray can come in the form of a pump bottle or a pressurized canister, which are similar devices that release the medication into the nose by pressing a button. To make sure the mist flows in easily, it is important to clear the nose of any mucus. Tilting the head back while closing the other nostril is also recommended. Slow and deep breathing is encouraged, as well as withholding from blowing one’s nose soon after applying the prescribed dose.
