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How to Use a Waterpik to Irrigate Your Sinuses

Sinus irrigation is used to relieve allergies and sinus irritation. Originally, you had to purchase a nasal adaptor to use your Waterpik system as a sinus irrigator. However, Waterpik no longer offers this adaptor but has created an independent system called the Waterpik SinuSense Water Pulsator. Waterpik tooth cleaning systems required careful regulation of pressure in order to avoid sinus damage. The new SinuSense is specially designed to provide the correct amount of water pressure for sinus irrigation.

Things You'll Need

  • Waterpik SinuSense Water Pulsator
  • Measuring cup, microwave-safe
  • Distilled or filtered water
  • Microwave
  • Soothing saline easy-pour packets
  • Tissues
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Instructions

  1. Using a Waterpik for Sinus Irrigation

    • 1

      Wash your hands to avoid the risk of infection.

    • 2

      Fill a measuring cup with 8 ounces of distilled or filtered water and add the saline sinus solution packet. This packet acts to create a sinus-friendly saline solution. You can use tap water to make the solution, but you may be introducing additional chemicals that can irritate your sinuses.

    • 3

      Place the measuring cup in the microwave and warm in 5 second intervals. The water should be warm but still comfortable to the touch.

    • 4

      Pour the water into the reservoir of the Waterpik sinus irrigator.

    • 5

      Place the sinus probe into one nostril and lean over the sink. You do not need to tilt your head because the force of the irrigator will push the water through your sinuses. If you have long hair, remember to tie it back or it will get wet.

    • 6

      Squeeze the trigger on the SinuSense slowly, allowing the water to flow into your sinuses. The trigger controls the rate of flow and can be partially or completely depressed depending on your comfort level. If the water pressure is not sufficient to move the water through your sinuses, increase the pressure until the water flows out the opposite nostril.

    • 7

      Stop the Waterpik once you have used half the solution in the reservoir.

    • 8

      Remove the Waterpik and allow the water to flow from your nose.

    • 9

      Blow your nose to remove any excess water and loose mucus.

    • 10

      Repeat steps 5 through 9 with the opposite nostril.

    • 11

      Clean the sinus probe and the reservoir before storing. Sinus probes can be washed using antibacterial soap or soaked in alcohol or peroxide to prevent infection. Check the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning the reservoir.

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