Is Nasal Washing Safe or Harmful?

It’s all in the Technique!

 The idea of keeping your nose clean is not as strange as it used to be, and more people than ever are enjoying the health benefits of nasal irrigation. I get letters from people who are washing daily when they brush their teeth and take their vitamins. It is such a simple way to maintain our body’s air filter. And we know that if your air filter is kept clean, your overall health will benefit.

Recently the medical community released information suggesting that daily nasal saline irrigation may actually encourage more sinus problems. However, the research that led to this statement is inadequate, failing to control for proper wash technique. If done correctly to avoid sinus irritation, washing can do no harm.

Occasionally I do hear concerns from those new to nose washing. Some are afraid that it will be painful, will do harm, or scare them like being forced underwater when they were young. Others try to wash and find it difficult, thinking their nose is special and just not made to be washed! 

Everyone’s nose is certainly special, but well over 98% of noses do benefit from washing. As a physician, I can assure you that I have never met a person with a nose that did not feel better after cleansing . . . IF the wash is done as instructed. It really does matter that you wash correctly. Nose washing done right is easy and feels good. And just like any new practice, it’s all in the technique.  Of course you can simply spray salt water up your nose, but it will not be as effective as a nasal wash. The goal is to wash trapped particles clean out of the nose! Using a good washing system will assure your best chance at comfort and success. If you have had an unpleasant experience with washing your nose, the problem may be with your device (bottle or neti), the solution, or your technique.

Are you one of those having problems that prevent you from having a refreshing and effective nasal wash? Here is a troubleshooting guide that may help:

The solution makes a messy backsplash, refusing to flow into one side or exit the opposite nostril.

 Create a complete seal between the bottle tip and the inside of the nostril. A bottle with a well designed tip will help you make this seal.

Aim the flow directly back towards the neck, along the floor of the nasal cavity, rather than up towards the sinuses.

Remember: Never force the solution into a blocked nose, always washing gently through the less congested side first.

The flow is not what you want, either too slow or too forceful. 

Use a system designed to give you full personal control of the washing pressure. Some days you may want a gentle flow and others may require a bit more pressure to clear secretions. You control the flow!

Washing seems to make things worse instead of better. I feel more congested and drain water at odd moments later in the day. 

These problems are often caused by mistakenly trying to wash the sinus cavities instead of simply the nose. Aggressive sinus washing can be quite uncomfortable. You want to make sure you are NOT pushing your wash solution UP into your sinuses, thereby irritating tender sinus tissues with mucus and other irritants. By washing only the nose, you allow the sinuses to drain naturally.

The system you use should encourage the solution to flow across the floor of the nasal cavity and out the other side, avoiding sinus cavities.

 Your wash should not make you have to tilt your head at an angle because this odd angle may allow the solution to enter the sinuses rather than flow past the openings.

The solution should be comfortably isotonic or hypertonic, depending on your need and your preference. Some may think that ‘less is best’, but we know that water without salt or buffers does not feel good on the nose lining. If buffered adequately, the solution will not sting or irritate the mucus membranes.

I am too scared to even try this strange practice! It looks weird, I hate getting water or anything up my nose, and I really think the nose is better left alone.

Be brave. Start with isotonic solution, and begin by putting a tiny squirt into one nostril, then the same on the other side. Let it drain, and blow very gently. Call us (1-877-853-PURE) if you have specific questions or even suggestions.
There are many nasal washing systems on the market today. They all wash the nose, from the ancient neti to the high powered electric systems that cost as much as a power drill!  If you are not enjoying your nose washing, take a look at your equipment and technique. After all, even brushing your teeth can be painful if done with the wrong brush and poor technique! Visit our site at www.nasopure.com for more tips on making your nasal wash feel good. We are here to clear the air, one nose at a time.

Be Well, Dr Hana
Hana. R. Solomon, M.D.  573-999-0450
Author of CLEARING THE AIR ONE NOSE AT A TIME, Caring for Your Personal Filter
drhana@nasopure.com                                                                                   
Copyright December 16, 2009