How Often Should You Nasal Irrigate?

Nasal irrigation helps rid the nasal cavity of bacteria and mucus, reduces inflammation of nasal tissues and reduces dryness. The process is performed using a neti pot filled with a saline water solution that's poured from one nose out the other. While there are many great benefits to nasal irrigation there are some instances in which it is advised not to irrigate the nose.

Side Effects

• There are generally no known side effects associated with nasal irrigation as the only ingredients to the process are water and non-iodized table salt.

Warning

• As nasal irrigation eradicates the nasal cavity of certain bacteria, it alters the environment in the nose and sinuses. In fact, it makes the nasal cavity and sinuses more susceptible to the growth of water-growing bacteria such as Pseudomonas. Thus, nasal irrigation is not appropriate when suffering from acute sinusitis since it could encourage the spread of infection to the eyes, throat or throughout the sinuses.

Time Frame

• When not suffering from acute sinusitis, nasal irrigation is appropriate to be performed two to three times a day. For example, for those suffering from allergies, nasal irrigation can help clear the nasal passages of collected dust and pollen, in which case once in the morning and once in the evening would help in breathing clearly.