Nasal Irrigation Problems

Nasal irrigation is a process in which a person flushes out the nasal passages by pouring a saline solution into one nostril and having it exit the other. Nasal irrigation problems can occur frequently when you're trying to figure this process out for yourself. Though the practice itself is well-known, it is not very widely practiced, so little attention is given to the methods and details involved in the process. This can cause misconceptions about what nasal irrigation can do and how it does it which leads to various problems in people attempting to use the technique.

Fresh Water

• Never use fresh water in nasal irrigation. It will feel uncomfortable and it can harm the sensitive mucous tissues in your nose. The various membranes of your nose all have salt content, and fresh water can cause a significant imbalance in the salinity.

Saline Solution

• Too much salt can also be uncomfortable. If you are using salt water and it causes pain, try using less salt in your mixture. If you are using a store-bought solution, then make sure you are only using a product made specifically for the nose.

Pulsatile Nasal Irrigation

• Simply running saline through your nose may not be enough to have an effect depending on the condition you're treating. If it isn't helping, consider pulsatile nasal irrigation. Pulsatile nasal irrigation involves the solution pulsating through your nose as opposed to simply flowing naturally. This type of nasal irrigation can be performed with a bulb syringe, although discomfort may occur if too much force is applied.

High Expectations

• Nasal irrigation of any kind may not be enough for the purpose you use it. While nasal irrigation can relieve many symptoms of various sinus issues, it doesn't necessarily cure them. If you are not satisfied with the level of relief nasal irrigation gives you, consider asking a doctor for something more effective. Be extremely careful of over-the-counter nasal sprays with additives. These are intended for short-term use and can cause dependency.

Preventative Use

• Nasal irrigation has not been proven as an effective preventative measure for any nasal conditions. There is no evidence that it can prevent any sort of medical problem, but it can effectively relieve the symptoms of various problems once they already exist in someone. This can be compared to aspirin's use in pain relief: the medication doesn't prevent anything, but is effective against already present issues.

Use as a Cure

• One often overlooked fact about nasal irrigation is that it is a complementary treatment, intended to be used alongside other medications or procedures. Seldom is nasal irrigation the end-solution in itself. One exception to this is using nasal irrigation as an aid to slowly reduce dependency on nasal sprays such as Afrin which contain chemical additives and are only intended for short-term use.

Warning

• Though it is safe for the most part, there are some people who should ask a doctor before starting nasal irrigation. Certain upper respiratory issues can cause problems with the irrigation. Nasal irrigation may also be a problem with people who have previously suffered facial fractures that may not be fully healed. If you are unsure whether you might have a condition that nasal irrigation may interfere with, contact a doctor.