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Are you using nasal sprays for your allergies but not getting the relief you expected? You might be making one of the common mistakes we see as allergists all the time. Nasal sprays are the #1, first-line treatment for managing allergic rhinitis symptoms, but they have to be used correctly to be effective.
In this essential "How-To" episode of Allergy Actually, learn the crucial difference between non-addictive nasal steroids and addictive decongestants, discover our allergists' unanimous favorite over-the-counter spray, and master the proper technique (Hint: "Nose to toes" and "If you taste it, you waste it") to finally get the relief you deserve.
EPISODE IN A GLANCE
01:52 Why Nasal Sprays Are the First-Line Treatment for Nasal Allergies
03:53 The Difference: Non-Addictive Steroids vs. Addictive Decongestants
07:32 The PROPER Technique: How to Use a Nasal Spray Correctly
13:29 How to Prevent & Manage Nosebleeds from Nasal Sprays
15:57 Overcoming the Fear of Using a Nasal Spray
MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE
- Nasal Steroids: Flonase Sensimist (Fluticasone Furoate), Triamcinolone (Nasacort), Budesonide (Rhinocort), Flonase (Fluticasone Propionate)
- Nasal Antihistamines: Azelastine (Astepro)
- Nasal Decongestants (Vasoconstrictors)
- Saline Sprays/Gels: Ayr, Xylitol Sprays (Xlear)
- Medical Concepts: Rhinitis, Septum, Kiesselbach's Triangle

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ABOUT GUEST
JASON LEWIS
Jason Lewis is a former U.S. Congressman from Minnesota and a nationally syndicated radio host. He shares his personal journey with severe seasonal allergies and his experience as a patient of Dr. Amber Patterson's, where he underwent Intralymphatic Immunotherapy (ILIT) to find lasting relief.

ABOUT HOSTS
KARA WADA, MD
Dr. Kara Wada is a quadruple board-certified physician in allergy, immunology, and lifestyle medicine, and founder of the Immune Confident Institute. As a Sjogren’s patient and life coach, she combines modern medicine with lifestyle and mindset practices to help patients harness their body's ability to heal.
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AMBER PATTERSON, MD
Dr. Amber Patterson is a world-renowned allergy and immunology expert pioneering the future of immunotherapy. As the U.S. ambassador for ILIT™ (a 3-injection allergy shot protocol), she is redefining allergy care through her practice, Auni Allergy®, and the groundbreaking Auni ILIT Learning Network.
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MEAGAN SHEPHERD, MD
Dr. Meagan Shepherd is a board-certified allergist and immunologist with nearly 15 years of experience specializing in advanced immunotherapy. She is known for her practical, evidence-based approach and her unique focus on "allergy-conscious living"—designing homes, habits, and lifestyles that improve her patients' quality of life.

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