How to Do Nasal Rinsing in Home Conditions

Nasal rinsing or a sinus flush is a procedure that can be done yourself in order to cleanse the nasal passageways with the help of a special solution that removes mucus, dirt, and other irritants. It can be useful for people who suffer from allergies or are battling a cold. But it’s important to do everything correctly since mistakes can lead to trauma and infection.

5-Minute Crafts suggests you read over these simple instructions and doctors’ recommendations before performing a nasal rinse at home.

❗ Despite the fact that nasal rinsing is a hygienic procedure and not a medical one, you should still make sure to consult with your doctor before performing it.

Prepare the solution.

Method #1: Pour 2 cups (500 ml) of tap water into a saucepan, bring it to a boil, and let it simmer for another 15 minutes, then let it cool to room temperature. Add 1 tsp of sea salt and a pinch of baking soda (optional). Mix it well to make sure the salt completely dissolves in the water. The prepared solution can be poured into an airtight container and stored in the fridge for no more than 24 hours.

Method #2: Pour 2 cups (500 ml) of drinking water into a bowl, add 1 tsp of sea salt, and heat it in the microwave oven for 1-2 minutes. Let it cool. Pour the ready solution into a clean glass jar with an airtight lid and store it in the fridge for no longer than 24 hours.

Method #3: Dissolve 1 tsp of sea salt in 2 cups (500 ml) of distilled water. The ready solution can be stored in an airtight container for up to 1 month in the fridge.

Attention: It’s prohibited to use tap water, drinking water, or boiled water in this case. A ready-made saline solution (sodium chloride solution), which can be purchased at the pharmacy, is the only safe alternative.

Choose a convenient tool.

A special tool called a Neti Pot is oftentimes used in Eastern countries. You can buy its modern plastic version, a special tool for nasal rinsing, in a pharmacy.

Get ready for the procedure.

• Heat up the solution to room temperature. Disinfect the nasal rinsing tool.

• Cleanse the nose. If necessary, use Q-tips.

• It will be more convenient if you do this procedure over the sink.

How to rinse the nose correctly

• Wash your hands properly and pour the solution into the nasal rinsing tool. Bend your head to the side over a bowl or over a sink.

• Pour the solution into one nostril. If everything is done correctly, the solution will pass through the nasal cavity and out through the other nostril.

• Cleanse your nose by gently blowing it. Don’t worry if a small part of the solution leaks into the throat or goes into the mouth.

• Repeat the procedure once again by pouring the solution into the other nostril, then blow the nose again. It’s ready!

An important note: You can buy a ready-made solution in a special bottle from a pharmacy. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations in the accompanying instructions when using it.

Contraindications

It’s recommended to consult with your doctor before the procedure because there is a range of contraindications.