The series' host, Thomas P. Campbell, MD, is chair of the Department of Emergency Medicine at The Western Pennsylvania Hospital. Nasal Spray Use Common colds often cause nasal stuffiness and doctors often encourage patients to use a nasal spray to relieve symptoms. However, many people do not get the benefit of nasal sprays because they do not know how to use them properly.
Nasal sprays come in two kinds of containers, pressurized canisters and pump bottles.
For both types, blow your nose before using but not for a while afterwards. Keep your head upright and breathe out slowly. Close the nostril on the side not receiving the medication. Press the canister and begin to breath in slowly through your nose. Repeat these steps for each nostril needing medication.