Grossan Sinus Irrigator Tips

The Grossan Nasal/Sinus Irrigation System is a device designed to deliver an irrigating liquid with pulsating frequency matching the normal movement of cilia in the nasal passages to the nose and past the sinus openings. The purpose is to clear nasal and sinus congestion, reduce the frequency of infections in these areas and recondition the tiny hairs in the nasal passage that move invading bacteria along before they can take root.

How It Works

• The machine helps remove excess mucus from the nasal passages. It extracts purulent material from the sinuses by creating a vacuum outside the sinuses. According to a statistical analysis of 211 patients, "Nasal irrigation is effective in improving symptoms and the health status of patients with sinonasal disease" (see link in References). Applying a carefully timed, repetitive pulse of healing liquid to the nasal passages for a short period increases drainage and restores the normal healthy movement of cilia. If the nose is completely blocked, the irrigator cannot be used.

Using the Irrigator

• Make up a solution using either 1 tsp. a special powder called Breathe-EaseXL from the maker or 1 tsp. salt. Dissolve this in 16 oz. of slightly warm water. The irrigator has a dial control regulating the force of the stream. Adjust this knob so the stream rises about 1 inch above the tip when the tip points upward. Press the "On/Off" push button on the handle to turn off the stream, but check that no cold water is coming from the tip first.

  Insert the tip of the applicator firmly into one nostril and bend over a sink. You should be looking at the drain in the sink with your head straight. Do not turn your head to one side or the other. Turn the irrigator on again and let the solution wash in one nostril. It should then run out the other one. If you find that water is running down the back of the throat, stay bent over but tilt your head slightly upward. Swallowing the solution is not harmful, but it is uncomfortable and loses the benefit of nasal and sinus drainage. Let this run until you use about 8 oz. the liquid. The Grossan Irrigator has graduated markings on the container making this easy to monitor. Turn the pulse off long enough to insert the tip into the other nostril and repeat.

Troubleshooting

• Salt accumulation in the machine may eventually lower the pressure. Always rinse the equipment after each use by running a container full of clean water through the machine. If the pressure does seem to decrease, then run some vinegar diluted in equal parts with water through to remove salt deposits. As a matter of routine cleaning, do this every few weeks. It is also a good idea to sanitize the equipment once a week by putting a solution of 2 oz. bleach in the bowl and filling with water. Run about 4 oz. of this solution through the machine. Soak the tip attachment in the liquid for 10 minutes.