What Are the Different Types of Nasal Sprays?
- mrtimbiggs4
- Nov 23
- 2 min read
If you suffer from a blocked nose, runny nose, or allergies, you’ve probably tried one or more nasal sprays but not all sprays are the same. Each works differently, and using the wrong type (or for too long) can make symptoms worse.
As a Consultant ENT and Rhinology Surgeon in Portsmouth and Hampshire, I often see patients who’ve tried several sprays without success. Understanding what each spray does helps you use them safely and effectively.
1️⃣ Steroid Nasal Sprays – for Inflammation and Allergy
Examples: Mometasone (Nasonex), Fluticasone (Avamys, Flixonase), Budesonide (Rhinocort), Beclometasone (Beconase), combination therapies which contain a steroid and anti-histamine (Dymista, Ryaltris).
These are the most commonly prescribed nasal sprays for chronic nasal blockage, especially due to allergy, rhinitis, or sinus inflammation.They work by reducing swelling inside the nose, which opens up the airway.
How to use them:
One or two sprays in each nostril daily
Consistency is key, they need at least 6–12 weeks of regular use to work
They are safe for long-term use
Important:If you’ve used one steroid spray correctly for three months without improvement, switching between brands is likely not helpful. The next step is to see if your blockage is structural (for example, a deviated septum) rather than inflammatory.
2️⃣ Decongestant Sprays – for Short-Term Relief
Examples: Xylometazoline (Otrivine), Oxymetazoline (Sudafed Blocked Nose Spray)
These sprays shrink swollen blood vessels inside the nose and work within minutes, but they are only suitable for short-term use (no more than 5–7 days).
Using them for longer causes rebound congestion (rhinitis medicamentosa), where the nose becomes more blocked when the spray wears off. They’re useful for short-term colds or sinus infections, but not for ongoing nasal obstruction.
3️⃣ Anticholinergic Sprays (Ipratropium Bromide) – for Runny Nose
Example: Ipratropium bromide (Rinatec, Atrovent Nasal Spray)
This spray works differently, it doesn’t unblock the nose but reduces excessive nasal discharge (runny nose).
It’s often used for:
Chronic rhinitis with watery discharge
Cold weather or gustatory rhinitis (runny nose when eating)
It has little effect on congestion or airflow but can be combined with other sprays when appropriate.
4️⃣ Saline Nasal Sprays and Rinses – for Cleaning and Maintenance
Examples: Sterimar, NeilMed, or homemade saline rinses
These are non-medicated solutions that wash away mucus, allergens, and crusting. They are safe to use long-term and are particularly useful after nasal surgery or with steroid sprays, as they help the medication reach the lining properly.
When Sprays Aren’t Enough
If you’ve used a steroid spray for three months with little or no benefit, it’s likely that your problem is structural, such as a deviated septum, valve collapse, or post-traumatic deformity.
In that case, surgery such as a functional septorhinoplasty can restore natural airflow.
At Adnova Clinic, Fareham, I offer consultant-led assessment and treatment for nasal obstruction, combining medical and surgical solutions to help you breathe freely again.
To enquire or book an assessment:
📍 Adnova Clinic
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