Neilmed is one of the leading companies in the sinus rinse space. They offer several products that can help clear your sinuses and nasal passages.
But one question persists: How many times a day should you use a sinus rinse? The answer is not as straightforward as you might think.
This post will look at the frequency of sinus rinses and how often you should use them. As always, check with your doctor and get advice specific to your situation. Let’s jump in.
What does Nielmed say about frequency?
Using saline to rinse the sinus cavity significantly benefits sinus issues. Rinse solutions remove excess mucus, pollen, dirt, and other irritants. These irritants can cause allergies in addition to a swelling of the mucous membranes of the nose and sinuses.
NeilMed products are some of the most popular sinus products on the market. NeilMed specializes in saline irrigation products, including the popular Neti Pot. They are recommended by many doctors and physicians worldwide. So they indeed are the most established player in the market.
The first step with any product is reading the directions and seeing what the manufacturer says.
If you read Neilmed’s directions, they basically state that for an effective sinus rinse, you need a large amount (typically 100-200 ml) of saline solution applied in each nasal passage. They also state that adequate pressure should be used to remove the allergens, mucus, dust, and pollen from the nasal passages.
Ok, this part makes sense. But how many times a day should you use the sinus rinse? This answer can be a little more subjective.
Once or Twice a Day?
Most folks use a neti pot, or other NeilMed sinus rinses only once or twice a day. For minor sinus irritations, this frequency will allow for maximum symptom relief.
You can do it first thing in the morning or later in the day. Most people do it in the morning because often you will have a little saline solution drip later in the day. That’s why morning works best because then you won’t have any solution stuck in the nasal cavity while you sleep.
Remember that nasal irrigation products are generally considered safe. But some people experience side effects, such as nasal irritation. People with immune systems that don’t fully function should always ask their physician before trying nasal irrigation systems because they can be at greater infection risk.
More than Twice a Day?
Should you use a sinus rinse more than twice a day? In most situations, this is not necessary. But it could make sense in certain situations.
Allergy & Flu Season
You might find it necessary to use a sinus rinse during allergy season, possibly 3-4 times a day. This way, you can use it right after you come in from spending time outside.
You also might consider using your sinus rinse more often during cold and flu season. This could reduce the chance of catching a virus, especially when you are in contact with large groups of people.
When you have bad allergies or even cystic fibrosis, it might make sense to consider a daily sinus rinse. In many situations, it’s not worth waiting until you have a sinus flare-up to take action.
After Sinus Surgery
Many doctors recommend rinsing at least 4-5 times a day after sinus surgery. It can make sense after a sinus procedure like endoscopic sinus surgery or balloon sinus dilation.
The goal of sinus surgery is to re-establish the opening of the sinuses to restore normal ventilation and drainage. As such, these medical procedures will allow the saline solution to enter the newly opened sinuses and rinse out any infection, dust, or mucus.
Steroids or antibiotics can be added to the saline rinses in some situations. Some companies work with compounding pharmacies to customize this type of treatment, usually used after a procedure has opened obstructed sinuses.
Like any medical or pharmaceutical product, make sure to follow your doctor or physician’s advice. Each person’s situation is unique and requires particular circumstances.
Neilmed Sinus Rinse: How Many Times a Day?
Don’t think that a Neilmed sinus rinse is your only option. There are many different products on the market, so it makes some sense to look for a solution that works well for you.
Some people enjoy spray or even micro-spray products. Some of those products can have probiotics and other anti-inflammatory properties.
The favorite for many folks is the NeilMed Nasal Rinse bottle. It can hold 240ml of water, and it is an easy-squeeze bottle. This is usually sufficient to allow a nice squeeze in each nostril. You will have control of the pressure and the volume of the solution as it enters your nasal passages.
This product is not a little spray as with a pre-made solution. It’s a complete rinse. Using a ‘micro-spray’ product would be equivalent to using a little spray bottle to wipe the mud off your windshield, compared to using a garden hose.
Final Thoughts
Most people will rinse once or twice daily. But some will rinse 3-4 times under particular circumstances. Rinsing up to 6 times a day will be recommended by physicians after surgeries and other specific events.
Let’s face it. Sinus rinses are not for everybody. Some people have a tough time flushing so much water in their sinus cavity. I get it. If it’s not for you, find another product to help you out.
If you regularly use a sinus rinse, please let us know how often you use it. Is it one or two times a day? Is it more frequently? Let us know in the comments section.