Spring Pollens are already upon us, coming earlier this year than expected. Try nasal irrigation or rinsing to help keep your allergy and sinus symptoms under control. The advantage of doing this is that it is natural and drug free, using only sterile water and a prepared salt (saline) mixture to help clear and soothe your nasal and sinus passages, by reducing swelling and removing mucus.
- Nasal Saline Irrigation: Consider irrigating your nasal passages once a day, at a minimum if you are experiencing nasal and, or, sinus symptoms. Two types of irrigation systems are available. One consists of a “plastic bottle with a cap and tube”, the other is a “neti-pot” (which looks like a small tea pot). Both provide for a thorough irrigation. Use one that contains "prepared mixture packets" to be used with either Distilled Water or previously Boiled Water. *Use sterile water only. Never use tap, lake, ocean or dirty water for any nasal irrigation bottle or neti-pot usage. Contaminated water (including tap water) can cause infections and death in extreme cases.
Warm water works the best as it helps to loosen nasal and sinus mucus and calm swollen nasal passages. Be careful that the water is not too hot; you do not want to burn your nasal passages or any other body part. Also, do not irrigate without the salt (saline) as doing so with only plain water, will sting your nasal passages and increase swelling.
Follow the package directions diligently regarding usage and contraindications (who and when you should not use it) and cleaning of the unit/system. These must both be thorough cleaned properly after each use and also allowed to air dry.
- Nasal Saline Rinsing: This comes prepared as a “mist” in a small sterile metal bottle/can. This is quick and easy to use since no preparation is required. Also, the can/mist set up does not allow you to inadvertently aspirate your nasal mucus back in the bottle, keeping it clean inside. Clean the tip and top of the unit after each use.
- More on Nasal Rinsing: Other saline nasal rinsing products come in a plastic squeeze type of bottle. There are many brands on the market. These are smaller, plastic bottles and easier to carry, however: *Be careful not to suction/aspirate any of your mucus back into the bottle. If this occurs, germs from your nose will go into the bottle. The can cause an infection and make you sick if you use a contaminated bottle. As with the other units above, clean the tip and top of the bottle after each use.
*Contact your doctor for any questions or concerns you may have about your health.
