Sinus irrigation, also known as nasal irrigation or nasal lavage, is a technique used to flush out the sinuses and nasal passages with a saline solution. The practice has been used for centuries in many cultures around the world, and has become increasingly popular in recent years as a natural and effective way to treat sinus congestion, allergies, and other respiratory problems. In this article, we will explore sinus irrigation benefits and hoed to get started.
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Table of Contents
- Story Time
- What is Sinus Irrigation?
- Supplies Needed for Sinus Irrigation
- How to do Sinus Irrigation?
- Benefits of Sinus Irrigation
- Conclusion
Story Time
I grew up in Southern California and moved to Central California as an adult. The air gets trapped in the valley, causing horrible air quality. I quickly developed severe allergies and allergic asthma that could not be managed with over-the-counter medications. My primary physician referred me to a specialist. I was then prescribed Zyrtec, Astelin, and Flonase. I was going into the doctor’s office three-times per week for immunotherapy injections. Somehow, this made my allergies worse, resulting in multiple ER visits for anaphylaxis. I was then prescribed albuterol, a Flovent inhaler, Singulair, and an Epi Pen.
Despite all the medications I was on, I was consistently doing rounds of steroid pills and antibiotics for sinus infections, even though I was already getting a steroid injection every four-months. Then something happened. I got very dizzy, my heart was racing, and I was really weak. I thought something was seriously wrong, so I asked my husband to take me to the ER. I was told that I had low potassium levels, which could be a side effect of all the steroids I was given for my allergies. After getting an IV of potassium, I knew I was done with all the medications. I stopped taking everything except for Zyrtec and Flonase. (I kept my rescue inhaler.) I cancelled all my appointments for immunotherapy and I started researching natural allergy relief.
After a trial-and-error process of testing out natural allergy relief remedies, I was able to get my allergies and asthma under control. Sinus irrigation and air purifiers are the two things that help me manage my allergies and asthma. I have not been to the ER again and I have not had a sinus infection since I started using these. I use the Arm and Hammer Comfort Flow, which can be purchased here. For more information on air purifier benefits, click here.
What is Sinus Irrigation?
Sinus irrigation involves flushing out the sinuses and nasal passages with a saline solution. This can be done using a neti pot, squeeze bottle, or other irrigation device. The saline solution helps to thin out mucus and flush out any irritants or allergens that may be causing congestion or other symptoms.
Supplies Needed for Sinus Irrigation
To perform sinus irrigation, you will need the following supplies:
1. Saline solution – you can purchase pre-made saline solutions at most drug stores, or you can make your own by mixing salt and water.
2. Irrigation device – there are many different types of irrigation devices available, including neti pots, squeeze bottles, and bulb syringes. Choose the one that is most comfortable and easy for you to use.
3. Distilled or sterilized water – it is important to use clean water to avoid introducing any bacteria or other contaminants into your sinuses.
How to do Sinus Irrigation?
To perform sinus irrigation, you will need a saline solution and an irrigation device. You can purchase pre-made saline solutions at most drug stores, or you can make your own by mixing salt and water. It is important to use distilled or sterilized water to avoid introducing any bacteria or other contaminants into your sinuses.
To perform the irrigation, follow these steps:
1. Prepare the saline solution according to the instructions on the package or mix your own solution.
2. Fill your irrigation device with the saline solution.
3. Lean over a sink and tilt your head to one side.
4. Insert the tip of the irrigation device into the nostril on the upper side of your head.
5. Gently squeeze the irrigation device to allow the saline solution to flow into your nostril. The solution should flow through your nasal passages and out the other nostril.
6. Repeat the process on the other side.
7. Blow your nose gently to remove any remaining mucus or saline solution.
Benefits of Sinus Irrigation
Sinus irrigation has many benefits, including:
Relieves Congestion
Sinus irrigation can help to thin out mucus and flush out any irritants or allergens that may be causing congestion or other symptoms.
Reduces Inflammation
The saline solution can help to reduce inflammation in the sinuses, which can help to relieve pain and pressure.
Prevents Infections
Sinus irrigation can help to remove bacteria and other pathogens from the sinuses, which can help to prevent infections.
Improves Breathing
Sinus irrigation can help to improve breathing by clearing out the nasal passages and sinuses.
Treats Allergies
Sinus irrigation can help to flush out allergens from the sinuses and nasal passages, which can help to relieve allergy symptoms.
Reduces the Need for Medication
Sinus irrigation can help to reduce the need for medication by providing natural relief for sinus and allergy symptoms.
Conclusion
In conclusion, sinus irrigation is a natural and effective way to treat sinus congestion, allergies, and other respiratory problems. It involves flushing out the sinuses and nasal passages with a saline solution using an irrigation device. Sinus irrigation can help to relieve congestion, reduce inflammation, prevent infections, improve breathing, treat allergies, and reduce the need for medication. If you suffer from sinus or allergy symptoms, consider trying sinus irrigation to see if it can provide you with natural relief. Remember to consult with your primary care doctore before starting sinus irrigation. To purchase Arm & Hammer’s Comfort Flow at an affordable price, click here.
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