Nasal Irrigation Effectiveness

Nasal irrigation, also known as nasal lavage or nasal wash, is a process of clearing the nasal passages of irritants, allergens and mucus with a solution of saline. Doctors often recommend using nasal lavage if you are suffering from allergies and other nasal problems. When used regularly, it can lessen the symptoms associated with sinusitis, hay fever and other forms of rhinitis.

Sinusitis

Sinusitis is a condition characterized by an inflammation of the nasal passages, according to the Mayo Clinic. This swelling of the nasal cavities inhibits the drainage of mucus, resulting in nasal congestion that can make it difficult to breathe. It may also lead to pain and tenderness of the eyes, cheeks, nose and forehead. A study conducted by the University of Wisconsin, Department of Family Medicine, found that regular nasal irrigation can decrease the symptoms of sinusitis as well as reduce the use of common medications to treat this condition.

Hay Fever

Nasal irrigation has also shown signs of effectively treating hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, which is defined as an allergic response to allergens. Hay fever typically causes congestion, sneezing, coughing, watery eyes and sinus pressure when you're exposed to an allergen, such as pollen, dust, mold or dander. Another study conducted by the University of Wisconsin, Department of Family Medicine, in 2008 indicated that symptoms associated with hay fever often improve with regular nasal lavage, especially when used in conjunction with standard allergy medications, like antihistamines, decongestants or leukotriene modifiers. The nasal wash essentially clears the nasal cavities of the allergen, and thereby helps to prevent an allergic response. It may also help to relieve some of the symptoms associated with asthma.

Nonallergic Rhinitis

Much like with hay fever, nasal irrigation can help to improve symptoms of nonallergic rhinitis, a condition that causes the nasal cavities to swell from irritants, temperature changes and even foods or beverages. The Mayo Clinic considers nasal irrigation one of the most effective treatments for this condition. It's largely due to the fact that the saline helps to wash away the offending irritants or triggers of the inflammation, helping to improve congestion and breathing.

Sinonasal Disease

A study conducted by the School of Medicine at the University of California San Diego showed that nasal irrigation helped to improve symptoms of sinonasal disease, which is an inflammatory condition of the nasal passages as a result of both chronic sinusitis and chronic rhinitis. Nasal passages were cleared twice a day over a course of three to six weeks. Instead of a bulb syringe, a Waterpik with a nasal attachment was used. All patients involved in the study experienced some level of improvement in symptoms.