Or, try something new...
Last year I started using the Neti Pot when it got to be "that time" again. A Neti Pot is a tool for... say it with me... nasal irrigation. You can watch the video below, but basically you fill a Aladdin's-lamp-looking device with a salt water solution and run it through one nostril and out the other. You definitely want to read the instructions carefully before using this contraption (regular salt water will burn your skin) but, if used correctly, it can really help your nasal irritation situation. It takes some getting used to, but at the very least, it keeps one from having to use so many drugs... if any at all.
But don't take my word for it. Here's what WebMD says:
"The basic explanation of how the Neti pot works is that it thins mucus to help flush it out of the nasal passages, according to David Rabago, MD, assistant professor in the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health and a leading researcher on nasal irrigation.
A more biological explanation has to do with tiny, hair-like structures called cilia that line the inside of the nasal and sinus cavities. These cilia wave back and forth to push mucus either to the back of the throat where it can be swallowed, or to the nose to be blown out. "Chronic sinus problems cause the cilia to beat in a slow and uncoordinated way," Rabago explains. Saline solution can help increase the speed and improve coordination of the cilia so that they may more effectively remove the bacteria, allergens, and other irritants that cause sinus problems, he says."
A more biological explanation has to do with tiny, hair-like structures called cilia that line the inside of the nasal and sinus cavities. These cilia wave back and forth to push mucus either to the back of the throat where it can be swallowed, or to the nose to be blown out. "Chronic sinus problems cause the cilia to beat in a slow and uncoordinated way," Rabago explains. Saline solution can help increase the speed and improve coordination of the cilia so that they may more effectively remove the bacteria, allergens, and other irritants that cause sinus problems, he says."
Addendum:
1. Use only the type of salt recommended with your Neti Pot. Regular salt may burn nostrils.
2. Do not use too hot of water.
3. If you feel some water go into your ears, stop. Let it drain. Do not blow nose too hard or water may stay in ears longer then you like.
1 comment:
Jason totally needs this. He has chronic sinusitis...so miserable. And, he has the worst allergies.
I think Santa will bring him one for Christmas.
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