They’re used to rinse the nasal passages with a saline (salt-based) solution, and are popular to treat congested sinuses, colds, and allergies, and to moisten nasal passages exposed to dry indoor air.

But, FDA has concerns about the risk of infection when neti pots are used improperly. (more…)

There’s an increased risk of infection in people with recurrent sinusitis according to researchers at Georgetown University Hospital School of Medicine during the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology 2009 Meeting. (more…)

It’s commonly used to manage symptoms, but why is there so little research supporting it? (more…)

A review article in American Family Physician provides guidance for nasal saline irrigation. (more…)

Jala Neti (saline nasal irrigation) involves using a special “neti pot” filled with warm, slightly salted water.

Researchers from Nanjing Medical University, in China report, “It permitted the use of less topical steroids for controlling allergic rhinitis in children.” (more…)

Rhinosinusitis is an inflammation of the nose (rhinositis) and the sinuses (sinusitis).

The Cochrane Collaboration states, “The use of nasal irrigation for the treatment of nose and sinus complaints has its foundations in yogic and homeopathic traditions. It is often prescribed as an adjunct to other treatments such as intranasal steroids or antibiotics.” (more…)

Nasal irrigation (photo) is a personal hygiene practice where the nasal cavity is flooded with warm saline solution. The goal is to clear out excess mucus and moisturize the nasal cavity.

This study compared this technique to a saline spray in people with chronic nasal and sinus symptoms. (more…)

A study from the University of Nebraska reports that antibiotics are too frequently prescribed to treat sinus infections (acute or chronic rhinosinusitis).

That’s not new, but the mention of using a salt-water rinse as treatment is worth discussing.

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