The nose serves as an entrance to our airways. Germs, dust and dirt from the air that we breathe may lodge into the nasal passage and cause various health problems. Clearing away these irritants could be achieved most effectively by thoroughly washing the nasal passages and sinuses through large volume sinunasal irrigation.

Unlike nasal sprays or pumps, sinunasal irrigations deliver a large volume of solution under low positive pressure to gently wash the sinunasal passages. Sinunasal irrigation washes away and removes excess mucus, bacteria, viruses and irritants or allergens such as dust, pollen, pet dander, and smoke particles.

The following are the benefits of sinunasal irrigating solution:

• Clears and cleanses the sinunasal cavity
• Aids in the thinning of secretions, lessens pressure and pain caused by inflamed sinuses
• Helps moisturize the sinunasal mucous membranes
• Promotes the natural protective action of cilia to sweep away mucus, dirt or debris
• Provides relief of symptoms associated with cold, sinusitis, allergies, pre and postoperative care
• Optimizes patient’s recovery following nasal and sinus surgery

Solutions of sinunasal irrigation composed mainly of sodium chloride, potassium chloride and calcium lactate pentahydrate closely mimic the body’s own extracellular fluid that naturally bathe the cells of our body. The minerals of the solution provide relief of nasal and sinus congestion. Sinunasal irrigation is not associated with serious side effects and the solution does not sting as other concentrated solutions are prone to do.

For more information on sinunasal irrigation and if you have persisting or worsening symptoms, please consult your doctor.

References:

1. Low TH, Woods CM, Ullah S, Carney AS. A double-blind randomized controlled trial of normal saline, lactated Ringer’s, and hypertonic saline nasal irrigation solution after endoscopic sinus surgery. Am J Rhinol Allergy. 2014;28(3):225-231. doi:10.2500/ajra.2014.28.4031

 2. Low TH, Woods CM, Ullah S, Carney AS. A double-blind randomized controlled trial of normal saline, lactated Ringer’s, and hypertonic saline nasal irrigation solution after endoscopic sinus surgery. Am J Rhinol Allergy. 2014;28(3):225-231. doi:10.2500/ajra.2014.28.4031