Nasal Irrigation How To's

Nasal irrigation is a technique used by allergy sufferers to help keep the sinuses shrunken. When the sinuses swell, it causes pressure to build up in the sinus cavity and can lead to a sinus infection. If you are interested in performing a nasal irrigation to prevent a sinus infection, you should first speak to your doctor about the safety and effectiveness of this type of procedure.

Things You'll Need

• 1 quart water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon hydrogen peroxide
• sinus irrigation adapter
• water pick

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Instructions

• 1

  Decide when to perform a nasal irrigation. It is typically most effective if you perform the procedure when you start to feel nasal congestion.

• 2

  Make the nasal irrigation solution by mixing together one quart of room temperature water, a teaspoon of pickling salt, a teaspoon of baking soda and a teaspoon of hydrogen peroxide. Blend well immediately before you plan to use the solution.

• 3

  Measure out 500 ml of the nasal irrigation solution. You will use this amount for each side of your nose.

• 4

  Attach a sinus irrigation adapter to the end of a water pick. You can purchase these products from a drugstore or medical supply retailer.

• 5

  Place the adapter at the base of the affected nose and tilt your head to the opposite side. Use the water pick to squirt the solution through the nasal passage.

• 6

  Repeat the process for the other side of your nose if both sinuses are affected. Stop using if you feel the solution reach your ears.