In the United States, the top reason that people give for scheduling doctor visits is attributed to sinus problems. Irritants within the environment, including chemicals and pollutants, can cause sinus problems to flare up, usually causing advanced cases of nasal irritation and congestion, restricting the flow of air through the nose. There are many different techniques to help clear and clean out the nasal passages using oils and herbs, but one of the simplest techniques is using a neti pot.
Choosing a Neti Pot
When you have decided to choose a neti pot to treat your nasal problems, it is important to choose the right neti pot to fit your nasal passages. Neti pots come in different shapes and sizes to fit the different sizes of nasal passages within individuals.
You will want to find one with a smooth tip where the spout is located. This will ensure that no rough edges can rub against the walls of your nasal passages. By choosing the right neti pot, you will be able to create a seal along your nostril to make sure very little, if any, spilling occurs.
Using a Neti Pot
To use a neti pot, first fill it with lukewarm water and mix in approximately a quarter of a teaspoon of finely ground salt. Use non-iodized salt, and avoid salt that either has impurities or comes in large chunks as both of these things can irritate the nasal passages.
Next, lean your head forward over a sink and angle your head so that the side of your nose you are going to use the neti pot on is higher than the other side of your head. You will want to keep your forehead at approximately the same height as your chin to ensure that water will flow through the passages freely.
Then, as carefully and gently as possible, place the spout of the neti pot in your nostril, pressing the spout far enough up into the nostril so that it plugs the nasal passage and creates a comfortable seal.
Next, slowly lift the neti pot until the salt water begins to flow out of the spout and through your upper nostril. The water should be able to freely flow through your lower nostril during this process. Be sure to breathe using your mouth so that you do not inhale the water.
When you have poured all of the water through your nasal passages, you should breathe out your nose forcefully without pinching your nostrils. This will help remove any water or salt particles and additional bacteria that may still be present.
Finally, you can refill the neti pot and use it on your other nostril so both sides of your nasal passages are cleared. Remember to exhale out of your nose to clear your nose.
How Often to Use a Neti Pot
Once you have learned the process for choosing and using your neti pot, you can use this process in a daily cleansing routine like taking a shower or brushing your teeth. However, most people do not use the neti pot as often as they could. If you feel a sinus infection coming on or congestion, you should use the neti pot to cleanse any obstructions in the nasal passages. The benefits of using the neti pot are an increase air flow and easier breathing.
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