What is the purpose of nasal irrigation?
Nasal irrigation is a natural ,non-medicinal treatment for people who suffer from sinus problems, frequent infections, sinus headaches, allergies, chronic cough from post nasal drip,nasal congestion or thick mucous secretions. A wide variety of conditions will respond to nasal irrigation
How does it work?
Nasal irrigation provides a careful pulsatile stream of gentle soothing solution designed to wash away or cleanse the sinus openings and the nasal passages. It flushes away allergens, thick mucous which is a breeding ground for germs, bacteria and fungal spores,toxins and thick crusts sometimes encountered after nasal surgery.These toxins and thick mucous inhibit the movement of cilia in the nose which hence reduces the bodies natural defenses and the ability to fight infection.
How often do I need to irrigate?
Once daily is recommended unless you find that you are developing an infection or a cold.Then up to four times a day is considered.If secretions will not clear or you develop a fever and continue to feel sick, then a visit with your doctor may be appropriate for antibiotics.
Is this treatment covered by my insurance?
In some cases this treatment is covered by insurance. We can provide a letter of medical necessity to you and your doctor and the CPT codes that he or she will need to help get re-imbursement for you. This is not a guarantee of re-imbursement.
What if something happens to my irrigator or there is a technical problem with it?
This is unlikely but if there is a mechanical problem with the irrigator, please write at support @naturalsinushealth and get a return code and we will give you directions for return shipping. This needs to be done in the first 14 days after you receive the irrigator.
I think I have tried everything for my sinuses. medications. antibiotics, allergy meds,decongestants and even several sinus surgeries…Can a nasal irrigator still help me?
Absolutely yes! After multiple surgeries and long complicated courses of medicines this is the one thing that provides me with relief on a day to day basis and I do believe that it will be very helpful to you too. Lastly,use of an irrigator is not a substitution of adequate ENT exam and correct diagnosis but is a very helpful adjuct in treating your sinonasal disease and providing you with relief on a daily basis without medication.
How do I do the nasal wash?
Why should you consider a nasal wash? Many people with lung problems or asthma also have sinus and nasal problems. Drainage from your the noee and sinus cavity can make asthma worse, especially in the evening and at night. A salt water nasal wash, or a form or nasal irrigation, can help reduce these complications.
A nasal wash will cleans the nasal mucus so medication can be more effective. It will also clean the allergens and irritants from the nose and reduce swelling in the nose.
What is the correct nasal wash technique? Wash your hands. Make the nasal wash solution. Make the saltwater, or saline, solution fresh for every nasal wash, using a clean glass. To make the saltwater solution you should mix one-half teaspoon uniodized salt in an 8-ounce glass of warm water.
Salt is used but not iodized salt as it may be irritating when used over an extended period of time. Then you must add a small pinch of baking soda. A pinch is an amount you can pick up between your two fingers. If you are congested you can use the entire 8 ounces of saltwater. However, if you have minor irritation, 4 ounces should be enough. Then discard any remaining unused saltwater and prepare a new saltwater solution before the next nasal wash. You should lean far over the sink with your head down.
For younger children, if possible, have your child lean as far over the sink as possible. A small child can have trouble with a nasal wash and may need to be held and assistance. Perform the nasal wash. Techniques for adults and older children, pour the saltwater into the water reservoir and set at the lowest possible pressure. The you should insert the tip just inside your nostril and allow the fluid to run out of your mouth or other nostril. Then blow your nose lightly and repeat the procedure with the other nostril.
How do you clean the equipment? You should thoroughly clean the equipment used for a nasal wash to prevent the growth of bacteria. Each family member should have his/her own nasal adaptor (Sinus Irrigator).