Various sinus problems, like allergies and respiratory infections, can interfere with sinus function. Nasal stuffiness, called congestion, can be significant as can drainage and trouble breathing. Nasal irrigation is a home treatment that may relieve some of these symptoms by thinning mucus and moisturizing the nasal passages. The technique works by distributing a saline solution to the nasal passages and flushing mucus and other debris from the nose. A neti pot is a convenient container that holds the solution and makes application easier.
Step 1
If your neti pot came with a packet of saline solution, mix the packet of saline salt with the recommended amount of warm water in the neti pot. Typically this is two to four ounces of water. To prepare a homemade saline solution use the purest salt available because some commercial salts can contain impurities, states HimalayanInstitute.org. Mix 1 tablespoon of salt per two cups of warm water in a neti pot.
Step 2
Lean forward just enough so your head will be over the sink. Turn the head to one side.
Step 3
Place the spout of the neti pot in one nostril.
Step 4
Tip the neti pot just enough to allow saline solution to flow into the nostril. The tip should be completely inside the nose to allow the solution to run through the sinuses and not just inside the nostril. Continue pouring until the neti pot is empty. Breathe through the mouth during this time.
Step 5
Lean further toward the sink to encourage the solution to exit the nose. Some methods of irrigation suggest ehaxling through the nose forcefully and others suggest blowing the nose gently into a tissue. Either method can be done at this time to remove the loosened mucus and debris.
Step 6
Refill the neti pot and repeat the process on the other side. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests repeating the nasal irrigation several times a day. Individuals with chronic sinus problems may find it more helpful to repeat the irrigation every day for at least seven to 10 days to achieve maximum benefits likes nasal hydration.
Tips and Warnings
- For saline solution and mucus that is stubborn, leaning far forward and then standing upright can clear the nasal passages. Tilting the head from one side to the other may also be effective.
- Seek medical advice from a qualified health professional for sinus problems that last more than a week or for severely dry nasal passages that crack and bleed.
Things You'll Need
- Neti pot
- Saline packet, solution or
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups warm water
