Nasal Irrigation – Tips From a Sinus Expert
Nasal irrigation can be useful for removing airborne allergens such as pollen and relieving nasal congestion. A saline solution is administered to the nasal passages by a neti pot, squeeze bottle or similar device. The saline solution can be either isotonic or hypertonic. Isotonic solutions have the same salt concentration as your body whereas hypertonic solutions have a higher salt concentration. Hypertonic solutions may be more useful at drawing moisture from the nasal passages and relieving nasal congestion. Nasal irrigation improves cillary function within the sinuses (the drainage mechanism).
Unfortunately nasal irrigation does have it’s drawbacks. Particularly stubborn infections do not respond to this treatment. Some people find that the mucus membrane lining their sinuses is irritated by hypertonic solutions. It does not reduce the level of histamine released during an allergy response, therefore it is not always effective at relieving the symptoms of allergic rhinitis and hay fever. It does not provide immediate relief from sinus pain, pressure, headaches etc. The process can be awkward, takes time to carry out and many people don’t like it . It also usually has to be carried out in the home and it therefores lacks convenience.
The following natural treatments are extremely effective and have helped many sinus sufferers.
All natural nasal sprays – SinuSoothe is a fine example of a natural nasal spray that is effective and completely safe. It is recommended by doctors and even used by them to treat their own sinus conditions. Short term it provides instant relief from nasal congestion, sinus pain, sinus headaches, runny nose etc. due to it’s anti-inflammatory, anti-histamine properties etc. Long term it is extremely effective at killing bacterial and fungal infections and it desensitizes the nasal passages to allergens. The ingredients have been clinically proven to be effective and it is non addictive. Sinusitis, hay fever, allergy, rhinitis and cold sufferers all use SinuSoothe. It is also used by nasal spray addicts to replace their offending nasal spray.
Natural anti-histamines – Allergies would benefit from these. Quercetin and butterbur can be just as effective as OTC anti-histamines but without their side effects. Your local health food store should be able to advise you on these and others. It usually takes about 4 weeks for these to start taking effect.
Boost immunity – Getting a good nights sleep, proper relaxation and getting proper nutrition all benefit the immune system and play a role in fighting infections. Taking vitamins and boosting immune systems are also valuable to allergy sufferers as this reduces the allergic response within the body.
Herbs/supplements to reduce inflammation – Omega oils, turmeric, vitamin C etc. are all excellent natural anti-inflammatories. By reducing inflammation, sinusitis and sinus allergy symptoms can be vastly reduced. After all, the symptoms of sinus conditions all have a common enemy – inflammation. It can take several weeks for these to take effect but unlike their pharmaceutical counterparts, they don’t cause side effects.
Pollen barriers – Pollen barriers such as special barrier gel inside the nostrils can catch pollen before it enters the nasal passages thus relieving hay fever symptoms.
Before using new treatments it is always advisable to speak with your doctor first.
Learn more about a great alternative to nasal irrigation. Please visit www.sinusoothe.com for further information on nasal sprays and natural nasal sprays. Helen Miller BS is one of the worlds leading sinus experts.

Author: Helen Miller
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