Side Effects of NeilMed Sinus Rinse

Nearly 40 million Americans suffer from sinus pain and pressure annually. This painful and tiring condition is caused by a reaction to an external irritant. The nasal passages produce excess mucus to flush the allergen, bacteria or virus out of the sinus cavities. This creates a back up of mucus, leading to congestion, pain and, in some cases, sinus infection.

Function

• Sinuses rinses such as the NeilMed Sinus Rinse flush the offending particles out of the sinuses so that the body no longer has to produce excess mucus. The rinse comes in dry, powdered form, and is mixed with lukewarm water in a sinus rinse bottle or neti pot just prior to use. The patient inserts the opening of the bottle or neti pot into one nostril and leans slightly forward. The rinse is gently poured into one nostril, travels through the sinus cavities, and exits from the opposite nostril.

Effects

• The NeilMed Sinus Rinse flushes out sinus irritants and also helps keep the nasal membrane moist. Without irritants in the sinus cavity, the body will no longer produce mucus and the sinuses can drain normally. Mild side effects such as slight stinging or burning may occur, depending on individual reaction with the saline solution, strength of the mix, and sensitivity of the nasal membrane.

Benefits

• Many users report an immediate alleviation of sinus symptoms after using the NeilMed rinse. The rinse relieves congestion without harsh decongestant drugs like pseudophedrine, which can cause side effects like jitters, a racing heart and difficulty sleeping. Unlike steroid nasal sprays, the sinus rinses can be used daily without risk of addiction or complications. The NeilMed Sinus Rinse ingredients are natural and pH-balanced to not irritate the sensitive nasal membrane.

Considerations

• It is essential to thoroughly clean the NeilMed Sinus Rinse bottle or pot and replace it periodically. Sinus pressure and pain can be caused by bacteria and viruses, which could linger in an improperly cleaned bottle and be re-transmitted. When filling the bottle with water, be careful the water is not too hot. The nasal passages are much more sensitive to heat that other parts of the body, and lukewarm water will feel drastically warmer inside your sinuses. Be careful not to burn the nasal membrane.

Misconceptions

• Rinsing the sinuses is not painful. The process is mildly uncomfortable as fluid flows through the sinuses, with the feeling akin to swimming underwater. Saline rinses also do not commonly burn as one might expect with exposing the nasal membrane to salt, although experiences vary. Because the NeilMed Sinus Rinse contains baking soda as well as saline, many patients do not experience the mild burning that can come from saline alone.