I think you can agree that it seems as if there are more allergies today than there were even a decade ago.

It seems like everyone is allergic to something.

But what perhaps might be worse than suffering with allergies day in and day out is trying to find a treatment option that actually works.

This is why we put together this complete guide on Flonase reviews.

Our Top Pick - Flonase Allergy Relief

Here are some reasons why we chose Flonase as our top pick for allergy treatments:

• Does not produce any drowsy or dangerous side effects
• Alcohol-free formula
• Scent-free formula
• Available for over-the-counter purchase without a prescription
• Offers 24-hour relief
• Alleviates allergy symptoms of both the nose and the eyes
• Most recommended nasal allergy spray and allergy medication by doctors and pediatricians

Allergies are a dime a dozen. Although many people may brush off allergies as not being a serious thing, tell that to those who suffer from allergies consistently! The fact is that suffering with allergies can be life-changing.

Allergies can cause a lack of sleep and make people feel pretty sick all the time.

In fact, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, researchers believe that nasal allergies affect approximately 50 million people in the United States, and these numbers continue to increase each year.

Furthermore, allergies and asthma are the fifth leading chronic diseases in the United States, affecting people of all ages. Allergies are also the most common chronic disease affecting children under the age of 18.

Suffering from allergies can be a pretty serious issue, and can affect an individual’s everyday health and quality of life. Although there are a number of allergy medications out there, chronic allergy sufferers claim that most allergy treatments are quite expensive and ineffective.

However, there are some products that are effective and are proven to relieve allergy symptoms, which we will review in detail in this article.

What is Flonase?

So what exactly is Flonase and what does Flonase do? Flonase is a nasal spray containing fluticasone, also known as fluticasone propionate, which is a corticosteroid or nasal steroid spray.

Flonase fluticasone prevents the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation, irritation, and common allergy symptoms, such as the following:

• Nasal congestion
• Headaches caused by sinus pressure and severe nasal congestion
• Sneezing
• Coughing
• Sore throat
• Runny nose
• Itchy and/ or watery eyes

Flonase nasal spray is designed to treat common allergy symptoms caused by seasonal or year-round allergies. Flonase nasal spray can be used for both adults and children who are at least four years old. Flonase is available for over-the-counter purchase without a prescription.

The Most Common Causes of Allergies

We all know that allergies seem to be a dime a dozen, but what exactly causes them? Allergies are medically and scientifically known as "rhinitis".

There are different types of allergies or rhinitis, which include perennial allergic rhinitis or seasonal allergic rhinitis and even chronic rhinitis.

The most common causes of allergies are due to changes in our outdoor environments and even our indoor environments.

Outdoor Allergies - The most common outdoor allergies, which are often due to seasonal allergies or seasonal allergic rhinitis, include the following:

Tree Pollen - Trees are the first plants to begin producing pollen each spring as leaves begin to sprout and grow.

Depending on the area in which you live, tree pollen season typically begins in early or late spring or even as early as late winter, depending on the severity of the winter season (cold temperatures, snowfall, etc.)

Pollen tends to block the nasal passage, which can cause excessive mucus, a stuffy or runny nose and leave individuals feeling miserable.

Grass Pollen - Grass pollen is produced during late spring through early summer. Because grasses are so widely grown, they are infamous for causing a number of uncomfortable seasonal nasal allergy symptoms.

Ragweed - Ragweed plants are incredibly common in North America. These plants produce pollen during late summer in August and September. Ragweed is infamous for causing itchy, watery eyes, in particular.

Leaf Mold - In the Autumn season, and as leaves begin to fall from the trees and pile up on the ground, this makes the perfect breeding ground for mold. Leaves provide the perfect home for mold to grow.

Although leaf mold goes dormant during the winter season, it begins growing as soon as the weather warms up each spring.

Indoor Allergies - In addition to outdoor allergies, indoor allergies are also incredibly common. However, few people like to admit that they suffer from allergies due to their indoor environments as this makes people feel like they are unclean.

Additionally, many people confuse “having allergies” with their outdoor environments. The truth is that many people develop allergies to their very own indoor surroundings—regardless of how often they clean.

Some of the most common indoor allergies include the following:

Black Mold - Black mold is by far one of the most dangerous types of mold growth in an indoor environment and that can wreak havoc on everyday health. Black mold can grow as a result of humidity, flooding, or other types of water buildup or damage.

It tends to grow on building materials, such as fiberboard, paper, dust, lint and is commonly found in attics and basements.

Dust Mites - No matter how many times you clean or vacuum, your household is likely riddled with these little guys.

In fact, dust mites are actually the waste products of dust mites (microscopic bugs that consume tiny flakes of human or animal skin) that circulate as part of household dust and trigger allergic reactions.

Cleaning Products - People who suffer from indoor allergies often think that if they clean more often than they won’t. However, sometimes it is the cleaning products used that can trigger allergies.

Many cleaning products are designed with a variety of chemicals, which can trigger allergies.

Pet Dander - Although you might love your cat and/ or dog, they are likely the number one cause for your allergies.

In fact, animal dander is made up of microscopic bits of skin, saliva, and fur, which become airborne allergens and can even stick to walls, clothing, and other surfaces, such as your kitchen table or couch.

How Does Flonase Work?

As mentioned briefly above, Flonase is an intranasal corticosteroid (INS), or nasal steroid spray, which helps block allergic reactions to common allergies, such as pollen, mold, dust mites and pet dander.

The specific INS used in Flonase is called Fluticasone propionate (glucocorticoid).

Each dose of Flonase contains 50 mcg of that substance. The specific INS used in Flonase is called Fluticasone propionate (glucocorticoid). Each dose of Flonase contains 50 mcg of that substance.

So how exactly is Flonase different from any other allergy, cold or flu medication or nasal spray? Oral histamines only affect histamines that are present in the body.

On the other hand, Flonase blocks histamines as well as other inflammatory substances linked to allergies, which include the following:

• Histamine
• Cytokines
• Leukotrienes
• Prostaglandins
• Tryptases
• Chemokines

There are also a handful of inactive compounds in Flonase, including the following:

• Benzalkonium Chloride
• Dextrose
• Microcrystalline Cellulose
• Phenylethyl Alcohol
• Polysorbate 80
• Purified Water
• Sodium
• Carboxymethylcellulose

Additionally, decongestant fluticasone nasal sprays are not recommended for use for more than three days.

On the other hand, Flonase is safe to use every day (as directed, of course), which is an effective solution for individuals who live with pets or who work outdoors during peak allergy seasons or who are exposed to various allergens or allergy triggers.

How to Use Flonase

Although the side effects of Flonase are relatively minor, and Flonase is safe for everyday use, it is of the utmost importance that individuals use Flonase as directed. Flonase can lower blood cells, which help the body fight infections and illnesses.

As a result, Flonase has been known to weaken the immune system. Therefore, it’s important to try and avoid individuals who are sick or who have infections or existing illnesses.

Before using Flonase, it’s important to seek professional medical advice or speak with a licensed health care physician or practitioner, especially if an individual has or is prone to any of the following illnesses or conditions or if individuals have an existing infection or medical condition.

• Glaucoma
• Cataracts
• Liver disease
• Diabetes
• Herpes simplex virus of the eyes
• Tuberculosis or any other infections
• Sores or ulcers inside the nose
• A recent head injury
• A recent surgical procedure on the nose
• Chicken pox
• Measles

Individuals must ensure that they carefully follow safety instructions for effective use. Before using Flonase, the nasal spray pump must be primed by shaking the bottle. Individuals should spray up to six spray tests in the air until a fine mist appears.

It’s important to prime the Flonase spray if it hasn’t been used in seven days or longer.

Step 1. Blow your nose to clear your nostrils.

Step 2. Using a finger, close one nostril. Then, slightly tilt your head forward, keeping the bottle upright. Carefully insert the Flonase nasal applicator into the open nasal passage.

Step 3. Breathe normally through your nose. While breathing, press firmly on the applicator one time to release one spray. Avoid spraying in eyes or directly in the mouth. If the fluticasone nasal spray does get into the mouth, spit it out immediately.

Step 4. If a second spray of Flonase is required in the same nostril, then repeat steps two through three. Don’t forget to do the same for the other nostril to ensure maximum results.

Step 5. Once you are finished, disinfect the nasal applicator and tighten the dust cover.

Individuals should use Flonase exactly as directed. Using larger amounts of Flonase than what is recommended could possibly lead to complications. One to two sprays in each nostril daily is sufficient. If individuals miss a dose, then skip that dose if it close to the next scheduled dose.

Do not use administer an extra dose to try and make up for it.

Although an overdose of Flonase is not expected to cause life-threatening symptoms, it can cause uncomfortable symptoms, such as the following:

• Thinning skin
• Easy bruising
• Increased acne breakouts
• Accelerated growth of facial hair
• Irregular menstrual cycles
• Loss of interest in sex

If an individual accidentally overdoses on Flonase, then seek immediate medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 for medical advice.

It’s important to remember that like any allergy medication, nasal spray or dietary supplement, individual results will vary. It may take individuals up to several days of using Flonase before allergy symptoms or symptoms related to chronic rhinitis improve.

If symptoms do not improve within one week of regular use of Flonase, then consider speaking with a licensed health care physician as there may be a more serious problem.

What You Should Know Before Taking Flonase

One bottle of Flonase administers approximately 120 sprays. Flonase is designed for both adults and children who are at least four years old. Do not administer Flonase to a children under the age of four without seeking professional medical advice.

Although Flonase is an over-the-counter medication, consider speaking with a pediatrician or health care practitioner prior to using Flonase. This is because the corticosteroid medication can affect the growth and development process in children.

If individuals were taking a different fluticasone nasal spray from another corticosteroid medicine, it’s important not to stop taking the corticosteroid suddenly or this may cause unpleasant withdrawal symptoms.

Be sure to speak with a licensed medical professional before switching or stopping medications, even if they are over-the-counter medications.

It’s important to also continue to seek medical advice from a health care practitioner or physician on a regular basis even while taking Flonase fluticasone.

Individuals who are allergic to Flonase fluticasone should not attempt to use Flonase. Individuals who have diabetes should also speak with a medical professional or health care practitioner before using Flonase without a prescription.

This is because using a corticosteroid may increase glucose levels in the blood and urine, which may require an adjustment of insulin or other diabetes medications.

Women who are pregnant—or who plan to become pregnant—should also consult with their gynecologists or health care practitioners prior to using Flonase.

Further research is required to determine if Flonase fluticasone passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing or even an unborn baby.

Is Flonase a Steroid?

Flonase is a nasal steroid, which helps reduce sensitivity to common allergens and allergy triggers, such as outdoor pollen, mold, dust mites and pet dander.

As mentioned above, Flonase is a corticosteroid, which is basically a steroid that helps reduce inflammation and swelling in the nose. Most nasal steroids are available over-the-counter and do not require a prescription.

However, Flonase is easy and safe to use, as long as it is used as directed. Because Flonase is technically a class of steroid, some side effects may occur.

What Are the Flonase Side Effects?

Although Flonase is safe to use, some side effects are possible. The most common side effects include the following:

• Minor nosebleeds
• Burning or itching in the nose
• Sores or white patches inside or around the nose
• Crusting around the nostrils
• Headache
• Back pain
• Sinus pain
• Sore throat
• Fever
• Nausea or vomiting

More serious Flonase side effects include the following:

• Severe or regular nosebleeds
• Difficulty breathing
• Loud breathing
• Runny nose
• Redness, sores, or white patches in your mouth or throat
• Fever
• Chills
• Weakness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Flu-like symptoms
• Blurred vision
• Eye pain
• Injuries that will not heal

Nasacort vs. Flonase: Which is Better?

As mentioned briefly above, there are a number of other nasal allergy sprays available over-the-counter that are effective in relieving common allergy symptoms.

There are also a number of generic Flonase brands that are effective in treating chronic rhinitis and even non-allergic rhinitis. Another highly recommended nasal allergy spray is Nasacort.

Runner Up - Nasacort

Similar to Flonase, Nasacort offers a number of the same benefits as Flonase, including the following:

• No drowsy or dangerous side effects
• Alcohol-free formula
• Scent-free formula
• Non-addictive
• Available for over-the-counter purchase without a prescription
• Provides 24-hour relief
• Relieves allergy symptoms of both the nose and the eyes
• Can be used on children under the age of 4

The only major differences we have reviewed when comparing Nasacort and Flonase is that Nasacort is cleared for use on children under the age of four. In fact, Nasacort can be used on children as young as two years of age.

Nasacort is also available over-the-counter and without a prescription.

Nasacort is also a little cheaper than Flonase. Nasacort is available for purchase online for only $13 to $14 (with taxes and shipping) for a bottle of 120 sprays.

Flonase can also be purchased online, however, they are a bit more expensive at $18-$19 per bottle of 120 sprays.

As mentioned above, there are also generic Flonase brands available for purchase that are more cost effective and that also treat common allergy symptoms, such as stuffy nose, excessive mucus in the nasal passage, nasal congestion, itchy and watery eyes and nasal irritation.

Flonase Reviews: What Are People Saying About Flonase and Nasacort?

Nasacort Reviews

We have reviewed a number of customer reviews and analyzed customer feedback thoroughly to see what people really think about Flonase and Nasacort, and which they believe is better.

Some Flonase users who have switched to Nasacort have claimed that Flonase leaves a poor taste in the mouth after administering one to two sprays.

On the other hand, Nasacort users have claimed that Nasacort does not leave a poor taste in the mouth after use, which makes Nasacort the more preferred nasal allergy spray.

Nasacort users have also claimed that Nasacort caused less side effects than Flonase. Users have also claimed that Nasacort helped them feel better all around without any side effects than when compared with taking Flonase.

Additionally, Nasacort has also been used to help treat asthma symptoms and even help users sleep better.

Flonase Reviews

When we compared Flonase reviews with Nasacort reviews, Flonase had way more positive reviews, which we couldn’t ignore.

As mentioned above, the biggest complaint from Flonase users is that Flonase has an unpleasant odor and can leave an unpleasant taste in the mouth after use. Flonase manufacturers recognized this and released a scent-free formula, known as Flonase Sensimist.

Flonase users have claimed this version does not have an odor and does not cause an unpleasant taste. However, some users claim this doesn’t work as well as the regular version of Flonase.

On the other hand, Flonase Sensimist users have claimed that this version is better than the regular Flonase version. Flonase Sensimist has an improved shape and style bottle with a short nozzle that doesn’t drip or leak, making it easy and safe for travel, such as in a suitcase or purse.

Again, it’s important to keep in mind while researching Flonase reviews that individual results will vary. The majority of Flonase users claim that Flonase is highly effective and “the best allergy treatment”.

Furthermore, clinical studies have also been conducted to not only show the overall effectiveness of Flonase, but that Flonase has also proven to be an effective treatment to reduce the symptoms of asthma.

Flonase vs. Nasacort

All in all, both Flonase and Nasacort are safe, effective options for relieving even the worst allergy symptoms. Both are available over-the-counter and do not require a prescription.

Additionally, research suggests that nasal steroid sprays like fluticasone (Flonase Allergy Relief) and triamcinolone (Nasacort Allergy 24-hour Relief) are the most effective allergy medications for relieving congestion, sneezing, postnasal drip and other common allergy symptoms.

This is why many physicians and health care practitioners recommend these two products for fast allergy relief.

One drawback of both Flonase and Nasacort is that it can take up to several hours before users begin to feel relief from allergy symptoms.

In some cases, it may take up to several days to see the full benefits from these medications, which can seem like years when suffering with uncomfortable symptoms.

As a result, many physicians and medical professionals recommend taking these medications every day during peak allergy seasons or when users know they are entering an environment where they may experience an allergy flare-up.

This preventative measure will help avoid experience allergy symptoms.

One way individuals can ensure they get the most benefit from nasal allergy sprays is to use as directed. By keeping the head still after administering the spray into the nose, this will avoid the medication from running down the back of the throat.

Additionally, breathing normally and gently will keep the medication from draining down into the throat. Breathing strongly or aggressively after administering the medication will avoid the medication from entering the throat. If this happens, it’s important for users to spit it out.

Flonase Reviews: The Flonase Allergy Relief Product Line

Flonase offers several different allergy medications and products for both adult and children (at least four years old). These allergy medications and products include the following:

FLONASE® ALLERGY RELIEF - This product is the original prescription-strength nasal allergy spray designed to help relieve common allergy symptoms, such as nasal congestion; itchy, watery eyes; sore throat, nasal irritation and coughing.

Flonase is the first over-the-counter (OTC) nasal spray available.

FLONASE® SENSIMIST™ ALLERGY RELIEF - This product is designed with the same prescription-strength formula as in the regular Flonase Allergy Relief product.

However, this product is patented with MistPro™ Technology to create a fine, gentle, scent-free and alcohol-free mist that doesn’t drip or leak.

CHILDREN'S FLONASE® ALLERGY RELIEF - This product is the children’s version. It is also alcohol-free and is the leading pediatrician-prescribed allergy medicine that provides complete 24-hour, non-drowsy relief of common allergy symptoms in children.

This product should not be used on children under the age of four, unless directed by a medical professional or pediatrician.

CHILDREN'S FLONASE® SENSIMIST™ ALLERGY RELIEF - Again, similar to the adult version of Flonase Sensimist, which is the scent-free version of Flonase, this product is designed for children.

This is still highly recommended by health care physicians and pediatricians, and is proven to be more effective than cough syrups, tablets, and other kid-friendly chewable medications

Furthermore, administering a nasal spray in a child’s nostrils is often easier than trying to get them to take tablets or cough syrups. Children’s Flonase Sensimist administers a gentle mist that children barely feel.

Flonase Allergy Relief

In summary, Flonase Allergy Relief products are the best allergy nasal sprays to treat common allergy symptoms, such as a stuffy nose, runny nose, congestion, headaches caused by nasal congestion and sinus pressure, itchy and watery eyes and coughing.

Although Flonase is a corticosteroid, which is essentially an intranasal steroid, it is safe and effective to use, as long as it is used as directed.

Individuals who are allergic to nasal steroids or who have pre-existing medical conditions or illnesses should speak with a licensed medical professional or health care practitioner or a pediatrician (on behalf of a child) prior to using Flonase and Flonase Allergy Relief products.

All in all, allergy sufferers no longer have to suffer through the spring, summer or fall peak allergy seasons nor do they have to suffer with allergies at all. Flonase is safe, relatively inexpensive, easy to use, and is convenient to carry around or travel.

Allergy sufferers can now rest assured knowing that they have access to a nasal allergy spray that is quick and easy to use and that actually works and that also promotes everyday health.

Gone are the days of fumbling with tablets or trying to take pills that take hours to kick in or don’t work at all.

Get back to the life and activities you and your children enjoy by using Flonase.