Allergies, colds, flu: all demand some kind of treatment, but steroids, pills and sprays have side effects and are not always safe for children. Nasal irrigation is touted by some as a safe, natural alternative. Although the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine says there is no conclusive evidence to support the efficacy of nasal irrigation in treating illness, anecdotal evidence abounds. Those considering nasal irrigation as treatment should discuss it with their doctor.
Nasal Irrigation Defined
Nasal irrigation is the rinsing of the nasal cavities with warm saline water. A neti pot or nasal squirt bottle allows one to comfortably pour the liquid straight into the nose, although snorting from cupped hands is also an option. Packets of saline mixture may be purchased over the counter.
Usage
It is best to start with filtered tap water, as unfiltered water contains additives that could potentially irritate the nasal cavities. The water may be heated on the stove or in the microwave. If using a microwave, you should periodically swirl the water to eliminate hot spots. Once the water is a comfortable warm temperature, the saline packet may be added and then the mixture poured into the neti pot or nasal squirt bottle. When it is poured in one nostril, the saline rinse will drip out of the other nostril. It should be painless. Nasal irrigation is usually performed twice a day and may be done indefinitely.
History
The practice of nasal irrigation originated in India thousands of years ago as part of the science of Ayurveda. It is enjoying a resurgence in popularity, thanks to many yogis enthusiastic about its benefits.
Benefits
A June 2010 "American Family Physicia"n study recommended nasal irrigation as an effective treatment for moderate to severe allergic rhinitis not responsive to steroids. A November 2009 "American Family Physician" study recommended nasal irrigation as an adjunct treatment for upper respiratory infections. A December 2009 "International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology" study found nasal irrigation to be a safe and highly effective treatment of acute sinusitis in children.
Warning
There are no significant side effects of nasal irrigation if it is done correctly. However, the saline packet must be mixed with water first. If someone rinses with water only or with water and plain table salt, it will severely sting.
References
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine
- Pub Med: "American Family Physician"; Treatment of Allergic Rhinitis; DK Sur, S. Scandale; June 2010
- Pub Med: "American Family Physician"; Saline Nasal Irrigation for Upper Respiratory Conditions; D. Rabago, A. Zgierska; November 2009
- "International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology"; Efficacy of Nasal Irrigation in the Treatment of Acute Sinusitis in Children; YH Wang, CP Yang; December 2009
- Yoga Journal: Breathe Better
