Saline Spray VS. Nasal Irrigation for Allergies, Sinus Congestion and Dry Nasal Passages

If you are one of the many people who suffer from allergies, dry nasal passages or sinus congestion you can benefit greatly from the use of saline spray or nasal irrigation. The idea behind using either of these methods is to gently cleanse and flush the nose with a salt and water solution, removing pollen, pollutants and mucus. If nasal passages are dry, moisture is replaced making breathing easier. If you are a person who experiences sinus congestion saline spray and nasal irrigation can help loosen and clear thick mucus.

Which is better? There are pros and cons to both methods. Saline sprays can be used on an "as needed" basis all day, every day. They have no rebound effect like the antihistamine nasal sprays do. Saline sprays are convenient and very easy to use. Just 2 squirts in each nostril, inhale lightly and you're done. They can be purchased at all drug and discount stores and are priced around $2.00 to $3.00 per bottle for generic and $5.00 and up for name brands. The bottles are small and can be carried in a pocket or purse.

Use of a Neti Pot or other type of nasal irrigation is recommended 1-2 times each day. It involves mixing warm water with uniodized salt and/or baking soda. You need to measure the water and add 1/4 to 1 teaspoon of salt and/or baking soda and stir the contents until they are completely dissolved. After gently blowing your nose, you need to tilt your head to the side over a sink and gently run the warm water mixture through the upper nostril, breathing through your mouth and allowing the water to run out the other nostril. Doing this can take some practice and you will need to experiment to find the right amount of salt and/or baking soda that is comfortable for you. While I'm on the subject--under no circumstances should you use hot water. Your nasal passages are delicate and hot water can burn them. I have found that 1/4 teaspoon of salt combined with 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda stirred into a 12 ounce glass of warm tap water is the perfect combination for me. I use 1/2 the glass in my Neti Pot for the right nostril and the other half for the left. I use my Neti Pot every day and can really tell the difference if I skip a day. A Neti Pot can be purchased at some drug or health food stores locally. I bought mine on Ebay for $12.00 but you can get them for as low as $5.00 for the plastic variety.

So, which is better--saline spray or nasal irrigation? For me it's the nasal irrigation once a day with my Neti Pot. I carry a bottle of saline solution in my purse and use it only on high pollution and pollen days. My quality of life has improved greatly since I started using a Neti Pot 12 weeks ago and I would recommend it's use to anyone suffering from allergies and/or sinus congestion.