The Neti Pot is an ancient method of sinus irrigation to help allergy sufferers. Image from Flickr.
The Neti pot is fast becoming the hottest allergy relief solution in the country during an exceptionally severe allergy season. The cheap, low tech Neti pot has been used for nasal irrigation for centuries, but its popularity has skyrocketed among people with sinus problems after a recent feature on The Oprah Winfrey Show.
Neti pot: nasal saline irrigation
The Neti pot promises allergy relief for millions of Americans suffering from allergies. Many people can save instant money by avoiding costly doctor visits and prescriptions by using a Neti pot to relieve their sinus problems. Using a Neti pot has even helped some severe allergy sufferers to avoid drastic sinus surgery. Neti pots are also recommended by ear, nose and throat surgeons for their patients after sinus surgery.
Neti Pot: What is it?
A Neti pot is a simple ceramic container that looks like a teapot or Aladdin’s Lamp. It’s also called a nose bidet, which could evoke an amusing visual juxtaposition. But seriously, the Neti pot is an ancient idea originally used in Hatha Yoga tradition. The literal translation means “water cleansing” in Sanskrit. The recipe calls for a pint of warm water, a teaspoon of salt and half a teaspoon of baking soda. Using a Neti pot takes some getting used to, just watch the video below. But once allergy sufferers get past the intimidating appearance of the procedure, they can save money now and change their life for the future.
Neti Pot: how does it work?
The Neti pot allows allergy sufferers to thin mucus and flush it out of their nasal passages. David Rabago, MD, in an interview with WebMD.com, said tiny, hair-like structures called cilia line the inside of the nasal and sinus cavities. These cilia wave back and forth to push mucus either to the back of the throat where it can be swallowed, or to the nose to be blown out. Chronic sinus problems cause the cilia to beat in a slow and uncoordinated way. Saline solution can help increase the speed and improve coordination of the cilia so that they may more effectively remove the bacteria, allergens, and other irritants that cause sinus problems.
Neti Pot: is it safe?
WebMD.com says research shows the Neti pot is safe. About 10 percent of regular users experience mild side effects, such as nasal irritation and stinging and the rare nosebleed. Reducing the amount of salt in the solution, using the Neti pot less often, and using cooler water will reduce side effects. Because you’re using a Neti pot to battle sinus problems caused by allergies, it’s very important to sterilize it, either in the dish washer or with boiling water, after each use.
Neti Pot: save time, money and suffering
There’s a chance using a Neti Pot can help allergy sufferers avoid the inconvenience of a doctor visit and spending extra cash on a prescription. Plus, you can find one for about $10-$20 at the local pharmacy, health food store or online retailers like drugstore.com. When the sneezing, watery eyes, and sinus headaches start coming on, regular saline sinus irrigation using a Neti pot can provide immediate relief and help keep the symptoms from coming back.
Regarding Neti Pots…
It is important for Allergy Sufferers to know that:
> Rinsing sinuses with a saline solution might have soothing short-term benefits, but it could actually make you more prone to infections in the long run by stripping your nose of critical immune soldiers.
> "By washing the nose, we are removing the bad mucus but, unfortunately, we are also removing the good mucus that contains the antimicrobial agents as well
> avoid using nasal saline irrigation on a long-term basis, limiting its use only to when an infection is present.
> Do not use nasal saline irrigation as a maintenance because you'll be altering the natural immune benefit that the sinuses have."
Take Home Message:
If You find yourself using a Neti Pot extensively ..
You are also probably “Trying” to “Control” your Allergy Symptoms with Med’s.
Unfortunately, Because Neti Pot use and Allergy MED’s Only Mask SYMPTOMs > Leaving the Progression of your Allergy Disease InTact > To Continue / Exacerbate UnAbated…
Taking you on a Lifetime Slippery Slope of multiple “Allergy Driven” Diseases ( Allergic ASTHMA to name one ), recalcitrant Health Issues, Poor Self Esteem and compromised Quality of Life ( Achoo & Ouch ).