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Nasal Saline Irrigation Techniques

Rinsing with a saline solution (salt water) is a method of cleaning out nasal passages to help with several conditions, including colds, flu, allergies and sinus infections. The process removes mucus and other nasal secretions, removes allergens and keeps the lining of the nose moisturized. Congestion, post-nasal drip, sneezing and dryness in the nose can all be helped by nasal irrigation. There are a few options when it comes to the irrigation technique, all of which are effective.

  1. Mixing Saline

    • To accomplish nasal irrigation, regardless of the technique used, you must obtain an isotonic saline solution. You can buy solutions, used primarily for contact lenses, that will work, but it is quite simple to make an effective nasal-irrigation solution at home and it is far less expensive.

      Clean out a one-quart glass jar that has a tight fitting screw-on top. Mix 1 tsp. of pickling or canning salt, 1 tsp. of baking soda and 1 pt. (2 cups) of warm water, and stir until the salt and powder have dissolved. Do not use regular table salt because it has additives that could irritate the nasal passages, according to the website eMedTV. Store this solution for up to a week at room temperature.

    Hand Snort

    • Certainly the simplest form of nasal irrigation is the hand-snort technique. Simply pour a small puddle of the isotonic saline solution into the cupped palm of your hand and submerge your nostrils in the solution. Quickly snort the liquid into your sinuses and then allow it to drain back out. You will probably require several snorts to thoroughly clear the sinuses out.

    Neti Pot

    • A neti pot is a device specifically designed for nasal irrigation that, with practice, can make the process much more comfortable and effective. According to the HealingDaily website, the neti pot nasal irrigation technique originated in India. It involves the use of a small pot that looks similar to a teapot. Put the saline solution into the neti pot, tilt your head to the side and insert the spout of the neti pot into the upper nostril. Begin pouring the saline into the nostril and open your mouth slightly so you can breath easily through your mouth. Allow the saline solution to go through the nasal cavity and flow out of the other nostril, washing away congestion and irritants.

    Nose Dropper

    • Another alternative for nasal irrigation can be done using a nose dropper or nasal syringe. The process is basically the same as the snort method mentioned above, except you will not have to use your hands.

      Fill the nasal syringe or nose dropper with the saline solution and lean over a sink. Place the device up one nostril and seal off the back of your throat with your tongue. Squeeze the saline into the nose and sniff the liquid into your sinus cavity. Allow it to drain naturally out of your nostrils.

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