Health Tip: Using a Nasal Spray

(HealthDay News) -- Cold season is here, stuffy nose symptoms and all. A nasal spray can be an effective remedy, but it must be used properly.

Here are some suggestions, courtesy of the American Academy of Family Physicians:

• Blow your nose.
• Shake the canister or pump several times before using it.
• Close the nostril on the side not receiving the medication.
• Press down on the canister or squeeze the pump bottle as you begin to breathe in slowly through your nose. Repeat these steps for the other nostril.
• Try not to sneeze or blow your nose just after using the spray.
• Don''t use the spray beyond the limit suggested by the manufacturer without consulting your doctor.

-- Kimberly Sferruzzo

Last Updated: Nov. 1, 2005