Treating rhinitis with topical nasal sprays: Patient knowledge, use and satisfaction

Aim Nasal corticosteroid sprays are the recommended, first-line treatment in the management of allergic rhinitis. Patient compliance and spray technique appear to be significant issues. There is a paucity of information in medical literature, regarding patient knowledge, perception, and satisfaction of the use of nasal corticosteroid sprays Methods A prospective, questionnaire-based study was performed, Patient knowledge, perception, and technique of using nasal corticosteroid sprays was assessed. Results One hundred patients completed the questionnaire. Ages ranged from 16 to 68 years. 89%(n=89) had no knowledge of the required duration of treatment. 60%(n=60) were not shown how to administer the spray. 55%(n=55) did not know their spray contained steroids. 39%(n=39) gave up their treatment in under two weeks, primarily because they reported minimal or no improvement in nasal symptoms. 80%(n=80) of patients had poor spray technique. All patients complained of one or more side effects. Conclusion Patients administering corticosteroid intranasal sprays possess limited knowledge and awareness of the treatment for allergic rhinitis. They do not receive sufficient instruction regarding administering the spray or duration of use, and subsequently achieve suboptimal satisfaction with their management. A knowledge gap exists that could be bridged by better patient education.