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Nasal Irrigation Methods

Nasal irrigation refers to the practice of keeping the nose clean. It is also called nasal rinsing or nasal lavage and is considered a key to reducing the symptoms of sinusitis. The people who are recommended this are primarily the ones who have problems with drainage and nasal congestion since the process drains out any excess mucus that might lead to uncomfortable drainage and problems in breathing. There are different ways of nasal irrigation and a small but increasing rate of evidence has illustrated that it is a highly effective strategy in controlling a number of nasal symptoms.

  1. History of Nasal Irrigation

    • Nasal irrigation has been used as a folk remedy for the treatment of flu and colds for over a century. The efficacy of nasal irrigation for a myriad of conditions associated with the nose is now supported with a growing body of scientific evidence. In current day, nasal irrigation methods are employed by more to treat their colds, allergies, hay fever and mild sinuses without the side effects caused by pharmacological interventions.

    Bulb Syringe

    • Out of the many different tools that can be used for irrigating the nose, the bulb syringe is the most common and the simplest to use. It looks somewhat like a turkey baster and a light bulb and can be obtained for a minimal cost. The solution used in the syringe, also known as saline solution, consists of about 1 tsp. salt in 8 oz. of water.

    Nasal Syringe

    • The nasal syringe resembles an ear syringe used in flushing out the ear canal. Though the one used for ears can also be used for irrigating the nose, the one made specifically for the nose is not only larger in size but also has a tapered fit which makes it more comfortable for use in the nostril. The saltwater solution is commonly used in the syringe as well.

    Neti Pot

    • The neti pot is an age old remedy for nasal irrigation from ancient India. It resembles a gravy boat or a genie lamp with a conical, tapered tip that makes it easier to fit in the nostrils. The pot is filled with cooled saline, which as poured into the upper nostril by tilting the head to one side.

    Hydro Pulse Nasal Sinus Irrigator

    • The Hydro Pulse Nasal Sinus Irrigator was invented by Dr. Murray Grossan in 1976 as a result of extensive research on cilia dysfunction and sinusitis. The irrigator works by pumping water into the nasal passages through pulsatile irrigation that creates a pulsating rhythm. A number of scientific tests have been conducted regarding the efficacy of the instrument and conclude that its use results in less infections, lower chances of asthma, and improved breathing. For instance the journal 'Patient Care' reports studies based on patients who have chronic or persistent sinusitis and that due to the effectiveness of the method, a number of patients did not need any antibiotic treatment for their condition. Similarly, a study which was reported in 'Transactions of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology' states that chronic sinusitis patients using this method had reduced bacterial load and required less antibiotics, and a study reported in 'Allergy: Principles and Practice' based on patients of chronic rhinitis revealed a marked improvement in their condition after they had used the pulsatile irrigation at least once a day for two weeks. (Reference 4)

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