How to Use Your Steroid Nasal Spray for Eustachian Tube Dysfunction
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Prepare the Nasal Spray:
- Shake the Bottle: Gently shake the spray bottle to mix the medication.
- Prime the Spray (if needed): If it's a new bottle or hasn't been used for a while, prime it by spraying into the air a few times until a fine mist appears.
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Position Yourself:
- Hold the Bottle Vertically: Keep the bottle upright and perpendicular to the ground.
- Bend Your Head Forward: Tilt your head forward slightly. This position will help aim the spray toward the back of your nose and the Eustachian tube openings, located near the occiput (back of the head).
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Insert the Spray:
- Use the Opposite Hand for Each Nostril: To help angle the spray correctly, use your right hand for your left nostril and your left hand for your right nostril.
- Place the nozzle just inside the nostril, aiming it slightly toward the back of your head.
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Administer the Spray:
- Press the Spray: While holding your head forward, press down firmly to release the spray.
- Take a Breath In: Inhale gently through your nose as you press the spray to help draw the medication further up.
- Breathe Out through Your Mouth: After spraying, breathe out through your mouth to avoid inhaling any excess spray into the throat.
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Repeat in the Other Nostril:
- Follow the same steps, using the opposite hand for the opposite nostril.
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Finish Up:
- Clean the Nozzle: Wipe the nozzle with a tissue to prevent blockage.
- Avoid blowing your nose for a few minutes to allow the medication to absorb.
Using the nasal spray with this technique will direct the medication toward the Eustachian tube openings, which may help reduce inflammation and improve drainage. If you have any questions about this technique, ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for further guidance.