Nasal irrigation

How to

Nasal rinsing is the simplest, cheapest and probably the oldest method to prevent and treat nasal disorders and many breathing problems.

In principle, there are no contraindications to this activity.

However, if you experience severe swelling / inflammation of the nasal mucosa, recent nose / head trauma or bleeding while rinsing, always consult your doctor.

Due to the ease of performing the procedure, it is recommended to rinse the nose even in children from 4 years of age, who can safely perform this activity at this age.

There were also no adverse effects associated with the use of isotonic nasal rinsing. Temporary mild irritation of the mucosa may occur.


Preparation of the solution

If you have purchased ready-made sachets - according to the manufacturer's instructions.


Usually, we use a solution of boiled, cooled water, approx. 0.5 liters, a teaspoon of table salt (preferably without anti-caking agent) and half a teaspoon of baking soda.

Procedure

You will need a jala-neti watering can or a regular soft sports bottle with a spout or a PET type (just empty of mineral water - freshly used)

It is worth watching instructional videos of producers of your bottle such as Neilmed or Prof. Schmidt

Gently remove excess nasal secretions.

Lean over the sink and turn your head 30-45 degrees.

Breathe in through your mouth or hold your breath for a while.

Slowly squeeze the bottle / tilt the can and pour from one nostril to the other.

Blow your nose gently and repeat on the other side.

Due to the connection of the nasopharynx with the ear through the Eustachian tube, it is worth removing the secretion from the nose and the remaining solution in the nasal cavity as gently as possible.

Leaning forward may be helpful in using gravity to remove sinus secretions. Blowing hard can lead to a "blocked ear" feeling.

When the red light is on, you need to see a doctor

Bloody discharge, ear / head / sinus pain, chronic discharge / hoarseness, feeling a noodle in the throat or nose.


If you feel a burning sensation in the nose, reduce the amount of salt / baking soda from 1/4 or half. If we haven't used the measuring cup, it may also be a sign of too little quantity. Whether we use an isotonic or slightly hypertonic solution depends on personal experience, which should in any case be very positive and refreshing.


Read more about nasal breathing!


Marek Lorenc, family physician