What is a sinus rinse?

Sinus rinse or nasal douching is a salt water nasal wash used to treat inflammation of the lining of the nose and sinuses. It cleans mucus, allergens and irritants from the nose and sinus. It reduces inflammation and may improve symptoms such as a stuffy nose, runny nose, crusting, dry cough, facial pain and loss of smell and taste.

Sinus rinses include Neilmed sinus rinse, Neti Pot and Sterimar – you can purchase them on line of buy them at the chemist. Most patients benefit from rinsing at least 2-3 times a day or more frequently if needed. Try it consistently for 3 months. The rinses can be used indefinitely if you find it beneficial. If you choose to buy a nasal rinse you should buy the isotonic option.

Alternatively you can make your own nasal rinse solution:

To make the solution at home, mix a teaspoon of salt and a teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda into a pint of boiled water that’s been left to cool to around body temperature (do not attempt to rinse your nose while the water is still hot).

You will probably only use a small amount of solution. Throw away whatever is left.

To rinse your nose:
  • Standing over a sink, cup a palm of one hand and pour a small amount of the solution into it.
  • Sniff the water one nostril at a time – an alternative is to use a syringe to insert the solution into the nose.
  • Repeat.

While you do this, some solution may pass into your throat through the back of your nose. Although the solution is harmless if swallowed try to spit out as much as possible.

Make a fresh salt water solution each time.
 

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