Nasal irrigation is a process in which the nasal cavity is cleansed with a liquid or spray saltwater solution. Irrigation of the nasal passageways has been demonstrated to provide relief from frequent nasal symptoms associated with the common cold, allergic rhinitis and sinusitis. Side effects associated with nasal irrigation are rare.
Nervousness
If you have never used nasal irrigation for the alleviation of your nasal congestion symptoms, the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Heath notes that you may be anxious or nervous prior to performing this nasal cleansing. At first, the process of nasal irrigation may appear awkward or uncomfortable. With recurrent use, you will likely become more comfortable with the nasal irrigation process.
Nasal Drainage
In a November 2007 study published in the Archives of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Dr. Pynnonen and colleagues noted that 43 percent of 60 subjects reported experiencing side effects following nasal irrigation. The most commonly reported side effect was nasal drainage following treatment. While this side effect may be uncomfortable, use of nasal irrigation is intended to drain the nasal passages to alleviate nasal congestion.
Ear Fullness
In a review published in November 2009 in The American Family Physician, Dr. Rabago and colleagues reported that ear fullness or pressure occurred in less than 10 percent of patients. Ear fullness or pressure may cause additional symptoms, including headache, hearing problems or mild pain. This side effect may be related to nasal congestion and will likely resolve upon recurrent nasal irrigation.
Nasal Irritation
According to the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, some people may experience nasal irritation following nasal irrigation. Symptoms may include an itchy, burning or dry sensation within the nose. The severity of the irritation is likely related to the salinity of the solution used during the nasal irrigation process. In most instances, nasal irritation can be alleviated by adjusting the amount of salt used in the irrigation solution.
Nose Bleed
In rare instances, individuals may experience a nose bleed---a condition referred to as epistaxis---following use of the nasal irrigation system. A nose bleed will typically resolve on its own within a couple of minutes once the blood vessels within the nose clot. If you are susceptible to recurrent nose bleeds due to problematic nasal blood vessels, you may prefer to use an alternative treatment to nasal irrigation.
References
- "Archives of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery"; Nasal saline for chronic sinonasal symptoms: a randomized controlled trial; MA Pynnonen, MD, et. al.; November 2007
- "American Family Physician"; Saline nasal irrigation for upper respiratory conditions; D Rabago, MD, et. al.; November 2009
- University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Heath
