Clear the Way, Breathe Today

Sinus infections are a common problem that many people have to deal with on a daily basis. The pain, congestion, and discomfort that come with sinus infections can be pretty overwhelming, and can even cause you to miss out on important activities and events. Thankfully, there are now several ways to ease your discomfort and treat your condition.

An effective solution to combatting sinus infections is through using Neti Pots or sinus rinse systems. These devices work by irrigating the nasal passages, removing mucus buildup and allergens that cause sinus inflammation.

Nasal irrigation and washes have been proven effective in preventing and treating sinus infections, reducing sinus pain and pressure, and alleviating sinus allergy symptoms. If you suffer from persistent sinus infections, it's time to consider using Neti Pots to bring relief to your daily life.

What is a Neti Pot?

A Neti Pot is a device used for nasal irrigation, also known as sinus rinse or nasal washes. It is known as a safe and effective alternative to over-the-counter medications for sinus pain relief.

A Neti Pot is a small ceramic or plastic pot with a spout that is designed to pour a saline solution into one nostril, and allow the solution to flow through the nasal passages and out the other nostril (Rabago & Zgierska, 2009). This helps to irrigate the sinuses and flush out any mucus, pollen, and other allergens from the nose. This method provides relief for a variety of upper respiratory conditions such as sinus infections and allergies.

Rabago, D., & Zgierska, A. (2009). Saline nasal irrigation for upper respiratory conditions. American family physician, 80(10), 1117–1119.

 

 

Does nasal irrigation help sinus infections?

Yes, nasal irrigation can help sinus infections (Succar et al., 2019). The saline solution helps to thin out the mucus in the sinuses so that it can be flushed out more easily. This reduces inflammation and the severity of a sinus infection.

Nasal irrigation also works as a preventive measure by washing away allergens and bacteria that can accumulate in the nose. Regular use of a Neti Pot or saline rinse system can help alleviate symptoms related to sinusitis, such as headache, nasal congestion and pressure, facial pain, postnasal drip, and bad breath (Abdullah et al., 2019)

Succar, E. F., Turner, J. H., & Chandra, R. K. (2019). Nasal saline irrigation: a clinical update. International forum of allergy & rhinology, 9(S1), S4–S8.

Abdullah, B., Periasamy, C., & Ismail, R. (2019). Nasal Irrigation as Treatment in Sinonasal Symptoms Relief: A Review of Its Efficacy and Clinical Applications. Indian journal of otolaryngology and head and neck surgery : official publication of the Association of Otolaryngologists of India, 71(Suppl 3), 1718–1726.

 

How to use neti pots safely for sinus pain relief?

When using a Neti Pot, it is important to follow the instructions carefully and use only sterile or distilled water. Boiling tap water for three minutes before using it can also help ensure that the solution is free from bacteria and other contaminants. (Rabago et al., 2009).

To safely use Neti pots for sinus pain relief:

  1. First, ensure that your nasal passage is not completely blocked and that you do not have an ear infection or blocked ears before using a neti pot. 
  1. Neti pots should be used with a saline solution, which can be easily made at home, and should never be used with water hotter than 60℃. It is crucial to not use plain water for nasal irrigation, as it can cause a severe burning sensation. 
  1. Fill the Neti Pot with the saline solution and gently tip it towards one nostril while keeping your head straight and bent forward. When using a neti pot, do not tilt your head back or you may cause water to enter your ear canals. 
  1. Once you have finished irrigating one side, blow your nose and then repeat the process on the other side.
  1. After using a neti pot, be sure to clean it thoroughly with warm soapy water and allow it to air-dry completely. It is also important to replace your Neti Pot every three months or if it becomes damaged in any way.

Neti Pots are only to be used on children above 12, and you should consult a physician before using it on younger children. 

Rabago, D., & Zgierska, A. (2009). Saline nasal irrigation for upper respiratory conditions. American family physician, 80(10), 1117–1119.

Nasal Care FAQ

 

What Is Sinus Irrigation, and Is It the Same as a Nasal wash or Rinse?

Sinus irrigation is a process of flushing out the nasal passages using a special device called a neti pot or sinus rinse bottle. It is used to effectively alleviate symptoms associated with sinus infections, nasal allergies, and sinus pain. (2022)

Nasal washes and rinses are similar procedures that involve flushing out the nasal passages with a saline solution. However, sinus irrigation involves a larger volume of saline solution and is more effective in clearing out the sinuses as compared to nasal washes.

uclahealth. (2022, May 2). Risks and rewards of nasal rinses: What you need to know. UCLA Health System.

 

Does Neti pots and sinus rinse help chronic sinusitis?

Yes, Neti pots and sinus rinse can help with chronic sinusitis. Neti pots and other nasal washes work by flushing out the mucus, bacteria, and other debris from the sinus cavities, thus decreasing inflammation and improving sinus function (Periasamy et al., 2019).

Abdullah, B., Periasamy, C., & Ismail, R. (2019). Nasal Irrigation as Treatment in Sinonasal Symptoms Relief: A Review of Its Efficacy and Clinical Applications. Indian journal of otolaryngology and head and neck surgery : official publication of the Association of Otolaryngologists of India, 71(Suppl 3), 1718–1726.

 

Does neti pots and nasal rinse help with sinus allergy?

Yes, Neti pots and nasal rinse can help with sinus allergies. Allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and mold spores can accumulate in the nose and trigger allergic reactions. Neti pots and nasal rinse help to flush out these allergens from the nose, thus, reducing inflammation and providing relief from congestion and sneezing (Piromchai et al., 2020).

Piromchai, P., Puvatanond, C., Kirtsreesakul, V., Chaiyasate, S., & Suwanwech, T. (2020). A multicenter survey on the effectiveness of nasal irrigation devices in rhinosinusitis patients. Laryngoscope investigative otolaryngology, 5(6), 1003–1010.

 

Does nasal irrigation help with stuffy nose?

Yes, nasal irrigation can help with a stuffy nose. A stuffy nose is caused by fluid build-up in the sinuses, using a Neti Pot or other form of nasal irrigation can help flush out the excess mucus, reduce or eliminate the congestion and allow for easier breathing (Succar et al., 2019).

Succar, E. F., Turner, J. H., & Chandra, R. K. (2019). Nasal saline irrigation: a clinical update. International forum of allergy & rhinology, 9(S1), S4–S8. https://doi.org/10.1002/alr.22330

 

Can neti pot usage help reduce snoring or improve sleep quality?

Yes, using a neti pot can help reduce snoring. (Meera et al., 2020) Snoring is usually caused by blocked nasal passages, and Neti pots flush out this blockage from the nose. By clearing the nasal passages, using a Neti Pot can help you to breathe more comfortably, reduce snoring, and overall improve your quality of sleep.

Meera, S., Vandana Rani, M., Sreedhar, C., & Robin, D. T. (2020). A review on the therapeutic effects of NetiKriya with special reference to JalaNeti. Journal of Ayurveda and integrative medicine, 11(2), 185–189.

 

How can you rinse your sinuses at home?

Yes, training masks can improve sports performance. In fact, research has shown that using a training mask during exercise can lead to improved endurance, muscle strength, and power output (ELnaggar et al., 2023).

Rinsing your sinuses at home can be done with a Neti Pot or other form of nasal irrigation. To use a Neti pot at home, mix a quarter teaspoon of salt into one cup of lukewarm water and fill the Neti pot. Lean over the sink and tilt your head to one side, placing the spout of the neti pot into the top nostril. Allow the saline solution to flow through one nostril and out of the other, then repeat on the other side.

 

How often should you use the neti pot?

It is recommended to use the Neti pot daily when symptoms are present, and once or twice a week as a preventive measure (Principi, 2017). It is important not to overuse the neti pot, as it can result in dryness or irritation of the nasal passages. Consult your doctor first before using it, especially if you’re planning to use it for more than twice a week.

Principi, N., & Esposito, S. (2017). Nasal Irrigation: An Imprecisely Defined Medical Procedure. International journal of environmental research and public health, 14(5), 516.

 

What are the benefits of using neti pots?

Neti pots offer a variety of potential benefits, including improved airflow through the nasal passages; flushed out pollens, pollutants and allergens; reduced snoring; improved sleep quality; and relief from symptoms of sinusitis, allergies, and colds; (Piromchai et al., 2020).

Piromchai, P., Puvatanond, C., Kirtsreesakul, V., Chaiyasate, S., & Suwanwech, T. (2020). A multicenter survey on the effectiveness of nasal irrigation devices in rhinosinusitis patients. Laryngoscope investigative otolaryngology, 5(6), 1003–1010.

 

Do Neti pots clear your nose instantly?

Yes. Neti pots, sinus rinses or nasal irrigations, can provide instant relief from nasal congestion. The saline solution washes out the nasal passages, removing excess mucus, allergens, and other irritants that may be causing nasal blockage, sinus pain and discomfort.

 

Should you use warm or cold water in a neti pot?

Use warm water with a neti pot, as cold water can cause the nasal passages to constrict (Silver, 2023). The water’s temperature should be comfortable enough for you to drink but not too hot that it may burn your sinuses. Use sterile or distilled water as tap water may have contaminants and bacteria that can cause infection.

Silver, N. (2023, February 16). How to use a neti pot correctly. Healthline.

 

What type of water should be used in neti pots for sinus rinse?

Use sterile or distilled water in a Neti pot for sinus rinsing. Refrain from using tap water because tap water may have contaminants that can possibly cause infections.

FDA. (n.d.). Is rinsing your sinuses with neti pots safe?. U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

 

Can you use regular salt instead of neti salt?

Yes, you can use regular salt instead of neti salt in a Neti pot. However, it is important to use non-iodized table salt with no additives, such as preservatives or anti-caking agents. Additionally, be sure to dissolve the salt completely in warm water before using it in the Neti pot. (Sumaily et al., 2020)

Sumaily, I., Alarifi, I., Alsuwaidan, R., Alsiwat, L., & Alsaleh, S. (2020). Impact of Nasal Irrigation With Iodized Table Salt Solution on Mucociliary Clearance: Proof-of-Concept Randomized Control Trial. American journal of rhinology & allergy, 34(2), 276–279.

 

Can you use baking soda for nasal rinse?

Yes, you can use baking soda for nasal rinse.

To use baking soda, make sure to mix it with non-iodized salt and warm water before pouring it into the Neti pot. Remember that baking soda, while it may be used for nasal rinsing, may not be as effective as a saline solution and should only be used occasionally when needed.

Saline sinus rinse recipe. American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology. (n.d.).

 

Can I use essential oils or saline solutions with my neti pot?

Yes, you can use essential oils or saline solutions with your Neti pot. Essential oils such as eucalyptus and peppermint oil are often used to help reduce inflammation and clear mucus in the nasal passages. Saline solutions, on the other hand, contain a combination of water and salt which helps thin out mucus secretions and cleanse the nasal passages. (Huijghebaert, 2021)

Huijghebaert, S., Hoste, L., & Vanham, G. (2021). Essentials in saline pharmacology for nasal or respiratory hygiene in times of COVID-19. European journal of clinical pharmacology, 77(9), 1275–1293.

 

How do you clean and maintain your neti pot?

It is important to clean and maintain your Neti pot on a regular basis. After each use, you should rinse your Neti pot with warm water and allow it to air dry before storing it away. You can also use an antibacterial soap to disinfect and remove any buildup in the nozzle or spout.

 

Does neti pot hurt?

No, a Neti pot should not hurt if used correctly. However, it is important to be mindful of the water’s temperature and the salt solution because if the water is too hot, it may burn your nose and sinuses. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully and rinse one nostril at a time.

 

Is it normal to experience mild discomfort during neti pot use?

Yes, it is normal to experience mild discomfort while using a neti pot due to the salt solution entering your nasal passages. If you experience any pain or burning sensation instead of just an uncomfortable feeling, stop immediately and consult your doctor.

For the safe use of neti pots, make sure that you are only rinsing one nostril at a time. And do not tilt your head back too far during use, as water could enter your ear canals.

 

Can neti pots be dangerous?

Yes, Neti pots can be dangerous if used incorrectly. To avoid any potential health risks, always use sterile or distilled water. But if you need to use tap water, boil it for three minutes before use to kill any bacteria or other contaminants that may be present. (Ho et al., 2016).

Ho, E. Y., Cady, K. A., & Robles, J. S. (2016). A Case Study of the Neti Pot's Rise, Americanization, and Rupture as Integrative Medicine in U.S. Media Discourse. Health communication, 31(10), 1181–1192.

 

Can children or older adults use a neti pot?

Yes, both children and older adults can use a Neti pot. However, children should still be supervised by an adult at all times when using a Neti pot. As for children under the age of 12, use a small bulb syringe instead, as it would be easier to control the flow of water.

Older adults should also follow instructions when using a neti pot and make sure to consult with your doctor before using one. Those with health conditions such as nosebleeds, allergies or a weakened immune system, you should also speak to your doctor first before using this device.

 

Are there any side effects or risks associated with neti pot usage?

Yes, there are some risks associated with neti pot usage. If not used properly, it can cause damage to the nasal passages and lead to infection. Some possible side effects include irritation of the mucous membranes, nose bleeds, or allergic reactions due to contaminants in the water or salt used. (Rabago, et al.,)

Rabago, D., & Zgierska, A. (2009). Saline nasal irrigation for upper respiratory conditions. American family physician, 80(10), 1117–1119.