A neti pot is a safe and inexpensive way to alleviate sinus problems and help people breathe easier. Neti pots have safely been used in the Ayurvedic medical tradition of India for hundreds of years. There, the regular practice of using the pot to cleanse sinuses helps with yoga practice because it allows yogis to breathe more deeply through their noses. Neti pots are widely available and used throughout Western culture now as well.
Nasal Problems
Environmental irritants such as pollution, chemicals, dust, pollen and mold can contribute to nasal problems. Diseases and health conditions such as sinusitis, upper respiratory infections, allergies and the common cold can also all cause sneezing, stuffiness, runny nose and sinus headaches. Instead of suffering through these symptoms, a neti pot might bring relief. Neti pots are designed to help keep the thin layer of mucous inside your nasal passages clean and healthy.
Neti Pots
Neti pots are a containers that you fill with a saline solution so you can flush the mucous in your nose, using a technique called saline nasal irrigation. A study done by Dr. David Rabago of the University of Wisconsin Department of Family Medicine found that people who used the nasal irrigation techniques had "improved quality of life, less frequent symptoms, and used antibiotics and nasal sprays less often."
Tips for Proper Use
Neti pots come in various shapes and sizes. It's important to use a neti pot that fits your nostrils properly to achieve maximum benefit. Pots with a tapered tip are best because this supports and plugs the "in" nostril. Use lukewarm water, then mix the water with about 1/4 teaspoon of salt for every 8 ounces of water. Standing over your sink or in the shower, tilt your head until you can comfortably pour the salt solution so that it goes in one nostril and out the other. Remember to switch nostrils and repeat. Allow your nostrils to drain naturally after your have poured the salt solution through. Do not plug your nose and try to blow it because this can force what needs to drain into the hard-to-dry passages that connect your nose and ears.
Possible Side Effects
Although neti pots are much safer than using nasal medications, and may even be safer than not doing anything at all, side effects can occur, albeit minor ones. The most commonly reported side effect is a mild sense of anxiety before using the pot for the first time. Other uncommon side effects include dry nose between uses, stinging in the nose or a bloody nose. These side effects might be due to improper use or may already be problems experienced by people before they began using the neti pot.
Warnings
Even though neti pots are a safe and effective way to maintain healthy nasal passages, they are not a substitute for medical treatment. Nasal congestion or irritation might be a symptom of a more serious underlying medical condition or disease. If you think you may be experiencing serious problems with your nose, you should contact your physician, who might recommended additional treatments to complement your neti pot use.
