Nasal Irrigation: Natural Relief for Cold & Allergy Symptoms

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How Nasal Irrigation Works

Got a stuffy nose from allergies or a cold? Nasal irrigation may help. Here's how it works: you pour a saline solution into one nostril. As it flows through your nasal cavity into the other nostril, it washes out mucus and allergens. Using this step-by-step guide will help you see how to do it.

Step 1: Decide What You'll Need

To do nasal irrigation, you'll need a container and saline solution. You can buy prefilled containers, or opt for a bulb syringe or neti pot. All are available at drugstores. Some people cup their hands and sniff the saline solution into their nostril, though that may be harder to do for a beginner.

Step 2: Mix the Saline Solution

If you choose a prefilled bottle, skip this step. Otherwise, you can buy a saline solution powder and follow the directions on the label or make your own. Start with one to two cups of warm (not hot) tap water. Add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of non-iodized salt and a pinch of baking soda to soften the effect of the salt.

Step 3: Get in Position

If you are using a squeeze bottle, neti pot, or syringe, lean forward over the sink, at about a 45-degree angle. Tilt your head so that one nostril is pointed down toward the sink. Don't tilt your head back.

Step 4: Pour in the Saline Solution

Place the spout of a neti pot or the tip of a syringe or squeeze bottle just inside your nose. The tip should go in no further than a finger’s width. Keeping your mouth open, squeeze the bulb syringe or bottle or tilt the pot to pour the water into your nostril. Remember to breathe through your mouth, not your nose.

Step 5: Let It Drain

The salt water will run through your nasal passages and drain out of your other nostril and maybe your mouth. You should spit it out and not swallow it. But if some does go down your throat it won’t hurt you.

Step 6: Clear Your Nose and Repeat

Gently blow your nose to clear out the remaining solution. Repeat the procedure with your other nostril. After you’ve finished, be sure you discard any remaining solution and thoroughly clean the items you used. Store them in a clean dry place to use again.

What If It Stings or Burns?

Try reducing the amount of salt in the saline solution, and make sure you're using lukewarm -- not hot or cold -- water. Be sure to tilt your head to the side at a 45-degree angle, and don't tilt your head back. Keep your mouth open so you don't breathe through your nose and "snort" the saline solution.

How Fast Does Nasal Wash Work?

You may see results after just one or two times. The benefits grow as you continue to do it. One study showed that long-term nasal irrigation helped people feel in control of their sinus symptoms and significantly improved their quality of life.

How Often Do You Use Nasal Wash?

Using a saline solution just once a day can help thin mucus, decrease postnasal drip, and cleanse your nasal passages of bacteria. It can also wash out allergens you've inhaled. After symptoms are gone, some people find three times a week is enough to keep them symptom free.

Is Nasal Irrigation Right for You?

Nasal irrigation can benefit people with chronic sinus symptoms, nasal allergies, acute sinusitis, colds, and even nasal symptoms from the flu. It’s safe for both adults and kids. And it’s so effective, some people use it every day to stay symptom free. You shouldn’t use it, though, if you have an ear infection or a nostril that’s plugged and hard to breathe through.

How Sinuses Get Clogged

The nose has two passages that filter air. In the bones of the skull are the four air-filled cavities called sinuses, which drain into these passages. The passages and sinuses are lined with a mucous membrane. If it becomes inflamed -- for instance from a cold or allergy -- it swells and blocks the sinuses from draining. Bacteria can build up leading to a sinus infection. That leads to more inflammation, swelling, stuffiness, and pain.

Why Nasal Irrigation Helps

In the mucous membranes, hair-like structures called cilia (shown at left) pass bacteria and other debris to the throat where they can be harmlessly swallowed. When membranes swell, cilia can’t do their job. With nasal irrigation, you use the saline solution to rinse out your nasal passages. The salt water also restores moisture and lessens inflammation of the mucous membranes. Swelling is reduced, making it easier to breathe.

Ways to Reduce Allergens

If you have allergies, avoiding allergy triggers will go a long way toward making it easier to breathe. That means doing things like using an air conditioner in your home and car during warm seasons, reducing indoor humidity, and always running the exhaust fans when showering and cooking. Vacuuming regularly and using protective mattress and pillow covers can help, too.

Work With Your Doctor

One study showed that people with chronic sinus problems who used nasal irrigation were able to reduce their use of medications. Talk with your doctor about what’s right for you. And if you are taking medication now, don’t stop without discussing it with your doctor first.