WHAT IS IT?
Nose washing, rinsing, or irrigation is considered to be the practice of flushing, or washing, the naval cavity with a saline solution in order to remove mucus, debris and irritants from the nose and sinuses to promote better nasal function. Nose washing is proven to aide in and/or relieve the following:
sinusitis, asthma, allergies, headaches, fatigue, hearing loss, unfocused/irritability, insomnia, snoring.
Those with minor irritants such as allergies, dust and pollution should rinse with a low salinity level called a hypotonic or isotonic solution. Those experiencing chronic symptoms such as sinusitis, rhinitis and the overuse of antibiotics should rinse with a hypertonic solution; one that has a higher salinity level than cells and blood.
IT’S ALL CONNECTED!
The tear ducts drain into the nose; the nose, ears, mouth and throat are all connected, which ultimately lead to the lungs and stomach. Mucus lines the respiratory and digestive tracts to protect itself, as well as help collect and trap irritants.
Common irritants include, but are not limited to:
- pollen
- dust
- grass/trees
- pollution
- bacteria
- age
- hormones
- overuse of antibiotics
These irritants can cause imbalances such as lower PH levels, lower oxygen levels and bacterial resistance.
WHAT IS NOT A NOSE WASH?
Systems such as humidifiers or misters are not nose washes. Sniffing sprays, steams or water is not a considered a nose wash and not recommended.
WHO SHOULDNT TRY A NOSE WASH?
While almost anyone can, Dr. Hana Solomon recommends that those who are “too young to stand or hold a toothbrush” should not participate in a nose wash. Those who have unprotected airways (i.e.: stroke, cleft-palate) and those with compromised anatomy (i.e.: from surgeries, or tumors) should also avoid nose washes, for their safety. Those who are unable to use the wash for themselves should not participate.
Side Effects?
Side effects may include a burning sensation, which is temporary and will subside with use. Be sure to use a proper salinity level for your tolerance. Ear popping is also common, and temporary. Water drainage after use is normal, typically from alleviated swelling and congestion.
DOs & DONTs:
DO wash the congested side first.
DO begin with an isotonic solution (one that has the same salt concentration as cells and blood) and advance to stronger solutions per tolerance.
DO hold your breath to block the throat.
DONT wash with plain water.
DONT wash for someone else.
DONT force someone to wash.
REMEMBER, ANY WASH IS BETTER THAN NO WASH!
Resources:
Solomon, MD, H., 2021. The Art & Science of Nasal Washing. [online] Nasopure.com. Available at: <https://www.nasopure.com/category-s/1940.htm> [Accessed 14 July 2021].