Also known asnasal irrigationor a saline rinse, this effective remedy for congestion also helps keep mucous membranes moist.
Saline Rinse Options
There are various different brands of sinus rinses on the market.
Which you should use largely comes down to personal preference.
Koldunov / Getty Images
One popular example is Arm and Hammer Simply Saline.
As such, some may find them more beneficial for nasal irritation.
It is more forceful than a squeeze bottle solution, which may be helpful for some.
Other sinus rinse systems function similarly but resemble dental water picks when it comes to their design.
These systems are pricer and larger than squeeze bottles, which may make them inconvenient or impractical for some.
Sinus rinse bottles should not be shared among family members and should be washed and dried thoroughly between uses.
Saline solution is not a medication and does not pose any risk of drug interactions.
To avoid this, use distilled, sterile, or previously boiled water.
Also, clean your sinus rinse bottle/gear between uses.
Yes, it is possible to get water stuck in your sinuses from a sinus rinse.
This can happen if your sinuses are swollen or if your head is not tilted properly.
The water should work its way out.
If done properly, a sinus rinse should not have any side effects.
However, some people may experience a burning or stinging sensation in the nasal passages after a sinus rinse.
Rabago D, Zgierska A.Saline nasal irrigation for upper respiratory conditions.Am Fam Physician.
2009;80(10):11171119.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Is rinsing your sinuses with neti pots safe?
UCLA Health.Ask the Doctors: Nasal irrigation may help, won’t hurt COVID-19.
