How It Works
Do you have a stuffy nose, allergies or a cold? Nasal irrigation may help. All you do is pour a saltwater (saline) solution into one nostril. As it flows through the nasal cavity into the other nostril, it washes out the mucus and allergens.
Decide What You'll Use
For nasal irrigation, you'll use a container and a saline solution. You can buy prefilled containers, or use a bulb syringe, or a neti pot, all of which are available at many drug stores. First, mix the saline solution. If you have prefilled bottle, you can skip this step. Otherwise, buy a saline solution powder and follow the directions on the label, or make your own. Next, start with 1 - 2 cups warm water that's distilled or sterile, or boiled to prevent infection. Then, add 1/4 - 1/2 teaspoons non-iodized salt and a pinch of baking soda.
Getting In Position
If you're using a squeeze bottle, neti pot, or syringe, lean forward over the sink, at a 45-degree angle. Tilt your head so one nostril is pointed down toward the sink, but don't tilt head back. Pour in the saline solution by placing the spout of the neti pot or tip of syringe or squeeze bottle just inside of nose. The tip should go in no further than a finger's width. Keeping your mouth open, squeeze bulb syringe or bottle, or tilt pot to pour water into your nostril, and remember to breathe through your mouth, not your nose.
Let It Drain
The saltwater will run through your nasal passages and drain out the other nostril and maybe your mouth. If so, you should spit it out instead of swallowing. If some does get down your throat, it won't hurt you.
Clear Your Nose and Repeat
Gently blow your nose to clear remaining solution and repeat procedure with other nostril. When you're done, throw away any leftover solution and thoroughly cleanse items used and let air dry. Then store in clean, dry place.
How Fast Does It Work?
You may see results after one or two times, and the benefits grow as you continue to do it. One study showed a long run of nasal irrigation helped people feel in control of sinus problems and improved quality of life.
How Often Do You Use a Nasal Wash?
Using a saline solution just once a day may help thin mucus, curb post-nasal drip, and clean bacteria from nasal passages. It also may wash out any allergens inhaled. After symptoms are gone, some people find three times a week enough to keep symptom-free.
Is It Right For You?
Irrigation can benefit people with sinus problems, nasal allergies, colds and flu symptoms. It can help either adults and children. Some people use this everyday to stay symptom-free, but don't use it if you have an ear infection, or a nostril that's plugged, or hard to breathe through.
How Sinuses Get Clogged
This happens if the lining of sinuses and passages between them become inflamed. An allergy or cold could cause that for example. Inflammation swells and blocks the sinuses from draining and as bacteria builds up, leads to a sinus infection, caising more inflammation, swelling, stuffiness, and pain.
Why Nasal Irrigation Helps
A saline solution rinses out the nasal passages. Saltwater restores the moisture and eases inflammation of the mucous membranes that line the sinuses. The tiny hair-like "cilia" in those membranes pass bacteria and other junk to throat, where you're prone to swallow them.
Ways to Curb Allergens
With allergies, avoiding triggers is key to breathing easier. Use an air conditioner in your home or car during warm seasons to cut down on indoor humidity and always run exhaust fans when showering or cooking, plus regular vacuuming and protective mattress and pillow covers.
Work With Your Doctor
One study showed people with chronic sinus problems who used nasal irrigation were able to use fewer medications, but before you stop, talk with your doctor.
Source
www.webmd.com/allergies/ss/slideshow-nasal-irrigation.
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