Are you troubled with seasonal allergies that cause runny nose and sneezing? You may want to consider asking your doctor for a prescription for Flonase nasal spray (fluticasone propionate). The product is a nasal steroid that comes in an easy-to-use spray bottle. It is also effective as a treatment for nasal polyps.

Flonase is quite easy to use. First you blow your nose to clear any mucous.

Shake the container several times. You don't need to lie down.Prime the spray pump with 6 sprays into the air. Then insert the tip of the spray canister about a half inch into one nostril while holding the other nostril shut. Pump and sniff at the same time. Then do the same with your other nostril. Try not to sneeze and don't blow your nose just after inhaling the medication. It's best to wipe the nozzle clean and recap after each use.

Usually the instructions say to use the inhaler twice a day. Do not exceed the prescribed dosage. Benefits may not be immediate. You may have to use the spray for several weeks before you experience optimal improvement of runny nose and sneezing. If you miss a dose one day, do not double dose yourself the following day. Store this medication at room temperature in a place where it will not be subjected to heat or moisture. Use within six months of opening the foil pouch that the inhaler comes in. Each container has 120 sprays of the proper amount (50 mcg). If you are doing 2 sprays in each nostril twice daily, discontinue use of the container after 30 days even if it still seems to contain fluid.

While taking Flonase, avoid exposure to sources of infection such as people with measles or chicken pox. Refrain from activities that you know bring on or worsen your allergic symptoms. This may mean staying away from dogs and other pets and cleaning up areas where dust accumulates.

Serious side effects are normally not a problem with nasal steroids; however, should problems occur, such as difficult breathing, hives, or swelling of throat, tongue, lips, or face, stop taking the medicine, seek emergency medical attention immediately and inform your family doctor. Minor side effects that could possibly occur include hoarseness, nausea, bloody nose, increased eye pressure (glaucoma) or excessive tear production, sneezing and yeast infection in nose or throat.

If you are pregnant before or during treatment, check with your doctor. The FDA does not know for sure whether nasal steroids that pass into the breast milk might negatively affect a nursing infant. Other conditions which might rule out your use of this medicine are infections of any kind, recent nasal surgery, septal ulcers, liver disease or nasal trauma.

Do not use Flonase in combination with herbal remedies, other nasal medicines prescriptive or over-the-counter, or steroids without checking with your doctor. As with all medicines, keep Flonase out of the reach of children, don't share with other adults, use only as directed.

Learn more about this author, Kerry Michael Wood.
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