How to use a corticosteroid nasal spray.

Rationale and key points This article outlines the appropriate and effective technique for using a corticosteroid nasal spray. If these sprays are used inappropriately, they will be ineffective and might reduce the patient's adherence to the treatment. Nurses can use the information in this article to advise patients on the appropriate technique for using a corticosteroid nasal spray.

How to perform nasal douching.

Rationale and key points This article provides information on nasal douching, which nurses can use to advise patients on how to perform this procedure. It explains how to prepare and use a home-made solution for nasal douching, and discusses the various products available that can assist patients in undertaking this procedure. » Nasal douching, also known as nasal washout, irrigation or lavage, is recommended to clear mucus and allergens from the nose for people with rhinitis or rhinosinusitis.

Patient education in the effective management of hay fever.

Hay fever, or seasonal allergic rhinitis, is a common condition that affects one in four people in the UK. It is characterised by cold-like symptoms that may include a runny nose, itchy eyes, sneezing and nasal congestion or blockage. Patient education is important in improving patient concordance with treatment regimens and effectively managing hay fever symptoms, and may include advice on ways to avoid pollen.

Not just a spring fever... Information and advice to help families with hay fever sufferers.

Hay fever is an allergy to pollen or spores presenting as an allergic inflammatory response in all mucous membranes of the upper airway. The UK has one of the highest rates (it's estimated one in four of us have hay fever) and symptoms are often trivialised, even though the socio-economic and health costs are huge. If left treated, for example, a hay fever sufferer risks developing asthma.