Nasal irrigation is the flow of water or saline solution through the nasal passages, which cleans and dilutes allergens and mucus in the nasal passages. , A method of snot scab, can relieve nasal congestion, allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, acute upper respiratory tract infection. Suitable for both adults and minors. Nasal irrigation can be accomplished using a range of irrigation devices, including neti pots, nasal washes, nasal sprays, powered nasal irrigators, and more. Nasal irrigation is generally safe, but it is important to keep the irrigation device clean and to use a safe source of treated water.
When did nasal irrigation become unsafe?
Any water, including tap water, that is not properly filtered, treated, or disinfected, can introduce harmful microorganisms when flushing the nasal passages.
A nasal irrigation should not be used when an ear infection is present or when the nose is so blocked that there is no ventilation at all, as it may cause ear pain or worsen the ear infection.
Infants who cannot cooperate with nasal irrigation.
Which water can be used for nasal irrigation?
Distilled or sterile water.
Boiled and cooled tap water. If using an electric kettle, let the water boil until the automatic switch trips. If using a gas stove to boil water, let the water boil until a continuous bubble rises rapidly at the bottom of the pot. Then let the water cool to lukewarm.
Filtered tap water, such as direct drinking machines, household water purifiers, water purifiers, etc.
How do I use and store my nasal irrigation device?
There are many different ways to flush your nasal passages, including using a neti pot, nasal wash, nasal spray, and powered nasal irrigator. Any nasal irrigation device should be cleaned and dried before use. Use only properly treated water when preparing any nasal wash solution. After use and before the next use, the rinse unit must be washed and rinsed according to the manufacturer’s instructions, then wiped dry with a paper towel or left to air dry inside.
How do I prepare a nasal rinse solution?
It is recommended to purchase premixed packs for saline preparation at the pharmacy.
You can make your own with sodium bicarbonate and salt. Pickle salt should be chosen because it is very pure and dissolves easily. In addition to salt, ordinary table salt also contains other chemicals, so do not use it.
How do I properly rinse my nose?
When rinsing, lean over the sink, turn your head slightly to one side, spray salt water into your higher nostril, and keep your mouth open . Saline should flow in from the upper nasal cavity and out through the other nasal cavity. Swallowing small amounts of fluids is okay. There may be a slight burning sensation during the first few nasal rinses, which usually subsides as you get used to it.
When you’re done rinsing, blow your nose gently. In the next few minutes or throughout the day, there may be some salt water flowing out of your nose when you bend over. This is the salt water that has accumulated in your sinuses. Don’t worry, just let it flow out.
Frequency of nasal irrigation
In general, nasal washing is recommended once a day or in the morning and evening Each time is enough, too frequent cleaning may cause damage to the nasal mucosa. If it is a patient with a lot of purulent nasal discharge or severe rhinorrhea reflux, you can wash your nose 2 to 4 times a day, and reduce the frequency of nasal washing after the symptoms are relieved.
Liu Xiang (attending physician of the Department of Otolaryngology, Eye and Otolaryngology Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University)