This post was written by Catherine Eichler, PharmD, Parkview Health.
Like with all seasons, spring brings things to celebrate, and aspects that aren’t quite as pleasant. If you have allergies, you might be experiencing itchy eyes, sneezing, fatigue and congestion. To manage the discomfort at home, a neti pot is an accessible, non-medication option to help address the nasal symptoms associated with allergies, colds, influenza and sinus infections. It can also be used to moisten sinuses that are dried out from indoor air. Below are the answers to some frequently asked questions and tips and tricks for successful nasal flushing.
What is a neti pot?
A neti pot is a device that looks like a little teapot that delivers saline or saltwater into the nostrils, one at a time, to rinse the sinuses.
How does it work?
The sinus passages in the front of the face behind the nose are all connected. When saline is delivered into one nostril, it passes through the sinuses and comes out the other nostril. This rinse can loosen and clear allergens and congestion (or collections of “snot”) out of the sinuses and provide relief from uncomfortable nasal symptoms. While regular water can irritate the skin of the sinuses, the saline passes through with limited or no irritation or burning.
How do I use a neti pot?
You’ll want to review the directions from the manufacturer provided with your neti pot, but these are the basic steps for use:
1. Wash your hands and fill the neti pot with lukewarm, distilled water. You can use the microwave to warm the water, but warm it in five- to ten-second increments to avoid making the water too hot.
2. Add the mixture packet from the kit to the water in the neti pot. Tighten the lid snugly, then cover the hole in the cap with your finger and gently shake the pot to dissolve the mixture.
3. Standing over the sink, tilt your head to one side. While keeping your mouth open and without holding your breath, place the tip of the device against your nostril and gently flow the solution into your nasal passage. The solution should pass through your other nostril. Keep your forehead and your chin level to avoid the solution flowing into your mouth.
4. Gently blow your nose while slightly tilting your head forward. Avoid pinching the nose completely. If you are able to, gently sniff in any solution remaining in the sinuses. This may clean out the back part of the sinuses, so the solution may reach the back of your throat. If this occurs, simply spit out that solution.
5. For best results, repeat steps 3 and 4 with the other nostril.
6. Discard any leftover solution and clean your neti pot. (See cleaning instructions below.)
How often can I use the neti pot?
You can flush your sinuses using the neti pot once or twice daily, or as directed by your healthcare provider.
Important neti pot tips and tricks
• To avoid increasing the risk of certain infections, always use distilled or sterile water, which can be purchased in large jugs. If these options are not available, boiled and cooled tap water can be used. The water should be boiled for three to five minutes, then cooled until it is lukewarm.
• When cleaning your neti pot, it’s best to use distilled or sterile water. Avoid unboiled tap water. Rinse the pot, then fill with safe water and add a couple drops of dish soap. Replace the lid, cover the hole on the lid with your finger and shake vigorously. Rinse thoroughly with safe water and let the pot dry completely before putting on the lid. Store in a clean, dry place.
• Neti pots need to be replaced every so often. Check your manufacturer box for recommendations specific to your product.
• Neti pots should not be used with children unless it’s recommended by their pediatrician.
• For adults, check with your healthcare provider to determine if nasal rinsing will be safe and effective for your condition.
• If your symptoms get worse, you get a fever, nosebleed or headache after using the neti pot, contact your healthcare provider.
Sources
https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/rinsing-your-sinuses-neti-pots-safe
https://www.neilmed.com/usa/directions-for-use-warnings/
https://www.neilmed.com/usa/disinfection-protocol/
