Studies: Neti Pot is Better, Cheaper than Drug Therapies for Nasal Irrigation

Inflammation of the sinuses is simply known as sinusitis and there may be many reasons for this including seasonal allergies or the common cold. Whatever the reason, the symptoms are annoying and aggravating. We have all been there trying to obtain immediate relief with over the counter nasal sprays, and medications. This is also one of the most common reasons to visit a health care provider, yet it seems that nothing can give quick relief at least not without spending a fortune.

According to www.webmd.com, an estimated 32 million people in the United States are affected by chronic sinusitis. They spend millions of dollars each year on medications trying to obtain relief from their sinus symptoms. These symptoms usually consist of nasal congestion, facial pain, and headaches. But why spend so much when there is an alternative and much less expensive method that may have the same affect as the drug therapies.

The method is known as cleaning or irrigating the sinuses. This has always been a practice used in the medical field, however, recently I have heard more people referring to this as nasal flushing or nasal toileting.

All that this means is that the use of a Neti Pot, which is a small pot shaped like a watering container and is made out of ceramic, glass, plastic or metal is used to flush warm water through one nostril and letting it flow out through the other nostril. This in turns clears out the nasal passages of mucous and other particles that may be irritating the nasal cavity. This technique is accomplished more commonly in the medical field with a simple syringe. The concept is the same just different methods of delivery and the response is usually positive. Most people do feel immediate relief and it is a very cost-effective method in treating sinus symptoms.

About.com demonstrates that a study from the University of Wisconsin, School of Medicine was done by having a number of participants with sinus complaints use nasal irrigation as their treatment versus drug therapy and the outcome concluded that daily nasal irrigation improved their symptoms of sinusitis.

As disgusting as this procedure sounds I have done it and it has worked. The feeling of being able to breathe without having a sock up my nose is very refreshing. Especially without the use of medications and the money that it has saved me especially during ragweed season.

The practice of nasal irrigation is generally safe and without side effects. However there are some precautions and if there is any concern as to the use of this method then they should be discussed with your health care provider prior to attempting it. Otherwise it is considered to be very beneficial in improving nasal symptoms along with being cost-effective.

Resources:

http://seniorhealth.about.com/cs/respiratorycond/a/sinus_treatment.htm

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nasal_irrigation

http://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/sinusitis-allergies