Why I Love Sinus Rinse

I want to share a few of the reasons why I love sinus rinse and how it has changed my life.

If you ask me why I love sinus rinse, I really am not being dramatic when I say that is has changed my life.

Years ago, my ENT prescribed an over the counter nasal irrigation for me to use following a sinus surgery. He said that it would help me recover more quickly from surgery and also  prevent recurring sinus infections. The irrigation made such a huge difference that I’ve been doing it ever since.

The benefits that I’ve experienced from nasal irrigation are many. I’ll list them below, with the caveat that each person is different and may or may not have the same experience that I’ve had.

1) Cutting off colds at the pass. In years past, I could get a full blown cold after any exposure to allergens~hayride, exposure to dust or strong allergens, etc…If I irrigate immediately after exposure to these irritants, it often helps me avoid getting sick.

2) Keeping nasal passages moist during winter. When winter comes, I literally “dry up like a prune” when we start turning on the heat and the gas fireplace. Cold, dry air saps me of every bit of moisture that I have in me. The winter is when I LOVE doing saline rinse. It helps me stay comfortable and breathe more easily no matter how dry things get.

If you haven’t tried nasal irrigation before, I recommend that you research it for yourself. Although I feel the benefits far outweigh any risks, there are a few cautions. One is to always use distilled water. Never, ever, irrigate with tap water. Two deaths in Louisiana were reportedly linked to nasal irrigation using tap water which was contaminated with a deadly bacteria. Although rare, it highlights the importance of using water that is safe and sterilized. Since the sinuses are close to the brain, caution should always be used.

If you want to try nasal irrigation, the process is easier than ever. Bottles and premixed saline solution packets are as close as your nearest drugstore or a click away on amazon.com.  Once you get your kit, instructions will be enclosed. Here is my recipe for irrigation using NeilMed Sinus Rinse:

1. Fill the NeilMed Sinus Rinse bottle to the line with distilled water. 2. Empty packet of solution into bottle and shake well. 3. Warm water for 15-20 seconds in the microwave (warm water is soothing; cold water can cause a headache).

The irrigation process is simple. Without breathing in or out, just lean your head over the sink, and gently squeeze the solution into both nostrils. Just let the solution run its course; don’t try to inhale or exhale. There is a slight learning curve, but once you’ve mastered it, you can do it in a matter of minutes.

Do you already use a nasal rinse? If so, I would love to hear how it works for you.