Flushing the sinuses. How and with what to rinse? Inhalers and nebulizers 
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Flushing the sinuses and nose using inhalers and nebulizers is a simple procedure that helps clear the nose of residual secretions.
Sinus cleansing, also known as sinus irrigation, is one of the best ways to treat problems such as inflammation and pain. The procedure allows you to clear them of residual secretions, which makes breathing easier and helps reduce inflammation. Sinus rinsing can be done independently, or treatment by a doctor using the Pretz method or the endoscopic method is also possible. What are these methods and how to use them at home?
What is sinus irrigation, what does this process do and when is it useful?
Sinus irrigation is a method of clearing the sinuses using appropriate solutions and can help treat sinusitis in children and adults, both acute and chronic.
After flushing your sinuses, you can:
- moisturize the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract;
- get rid of excess accumulated secretions and clear the nose and sinuses;
- remove some viruses and bacteria;
- reduce inflammation.
The sinus cleansing procedure, which in practice consists of rinsing the nose, is useful for inflammation of the paranasal and frontal sinuses, and when the patient has nasal swelling (for example, as a result of allergies, nasal medications or infection).
Indications for sinus irrigation may also include sinus obstruction resulting from secretions or exposure to air-conditioned areas. Nasal rinsing is also used prophylactically to ensure proper hygiene of the nose and sinuses, and to prevent recurrences after inflammation.
The procedure for rinsing the nasal sinuses is possible both at home and in the hospital. At home, it can be done using a special kit, which includes a properly prepared solution.
People suffering from chronic or recurrent inflammation may choose to have a special sinus cleansing procedure performed by an ENT doctor in a hospital setting using the Pretz method or using an endoscope.
Sinus irrigation using the Pretz method and endoscopic cleaning
The Praetz Method is a simple, non-invasive sinus clearance procedure performed in an ENT office. It is used for more severe inflammation and in situations where pharmacological treatment does not bring the expected results. The cost of the procedure in a private clinic does not exceed 2 thousand rubles. The medical equipment necessary for the procedure is sold by the company “MTlider”.
To rinse the nasal sinuses using the Pretz method, a saline solution with an antibiotic is used, which is injected into the nose through a special nozzle, while the secretion from the patient’s sinuses is removed with a suction device. The procedure takes a few minutes, does not require anesthesia and can be repeated many times without fear of complications or side effects.
Endoscopic sinus clearance is also a non-invasive procedure used for chronic inflammation to open up the sinuses. It is performed using an optical endoscope and microsurgical instruments after receiving an appropriate referral from an ENT doctor.
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia. After endoscopic sinus cleansing, the patient should stay in the hospital for about 2 days and rest. The cost of endoscopic surgery of the paranasal sinuses in a private clinic can range from 10 to 30 thousand rubles.
How to rinse your sinuses at home? How often is the procedure performed?
Cleaning your sinuses at home is possible through the use of appropriate accessories. This could be a funnel-shaped jug, a special bottle or syringe, or a nasal rinse bulb.
How to clear your sinuses?
To perform an at-home sinus cleanse, stand over a sink and tilt your head to the side. Then inject the solution into your nose so that the liquid flows out of the other hole while breathing through your mouth. Repeat the same for the other nostril. Then blow your nose thoroughly to remove water and mucus. Sinus rinsing can be repeated up to several times a day, for example four times at regular intervals.
Consider purchasing a professional nasal and sinus irrigator called a nebulizer. The device creates pressure that allows the solution to be pumped into the nose.
The irrigator for cleaning the paranasal sinuses and upper respiratory tract can be used with saline solutions, medications and thermal waters. The device helps to moisturize the mucous membranes, as well as soften and remove secretions remaining in the sinuses.
It is best to purchase a professional nasal and sinus rinsing kit along with saline sachets. You can also choose a more complex device that combines the functions of an irrigator and a nebulizer.
Another solution is cleansing sprays for rinsing the nose and sinuses, that is, ready-made solutions in the form of saline or sea salt in pressurized containers equipped with a suitable nozzle. It is worth choosing a product that does not spray the saline solution under too much pressure.
When using reusable utensils and other devices for rinsing the nose and paranasal sinuses, it is necessary to ensure that they are regularly cleaned and disinfected, since they easily become a habitat for pathogens and, instead of supportive treatment, can contribute to the development of infection.
Flushing the nasal sinuses with saline solution
Sinus rinsing is most often done with saline solution, i.e. an aqueous solution of sodium chloride with a physiological concentration (0.9%) or even more - then this is a hypertonic solution, which contains more dissolved components than blood plasma and is especially useful for rhinitis.
The saline solution helps cleanse the nose and sinuses of secretions, moisturizes the mucous membranes and helps reduce their swelling. This is a completely natural and safe drug that is suitable for everyone, including children and pregnant women.
The saline solution can be purchased ready-made or prepared yourself by dissolving a portion of the salt included in the rinse kit in warm water according to the included instructions. When using regular table salt, pay attention to the recommended proportions and do not dissolve more than half a level teaspoon per 0.5 liters of water. According to ENT specialists, the best solution is to buy a ready-made sterile saline solution at the pharmacy.
Flushing the sinuses with hydrogen peroxide
For sinusitis, some people also recommend rinsing your nose with hydrogen peroxide. However, this is an unsafe procedure, because hydrogen peroxide has a destructive effect not only on pathogens, but also on human cells. It can damage the mucous membrane.
If you are already rinsing your nose and sinuses with hydrogen peroxide, choose the lowest concentration (3%) and dilute it - preferably adding no more than a few drops per serving of water. However, this does not guarantee that the solution will not irritate the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract, so this method is not recommended.
Is rinsing your sinuses harmful? Safety regulations
Irrigation of the sinuses is a procedure that is not always advisable. It is not recommended to perform it either at home or in the doctor’s office in such cases as:
- frequent nosebleeds;
- ear infections;
- crooked septum;
- nasal congestion;
- period after nose surgery.
If nosebleeds occur during sinus rinsing, the procedure must be stopped immediately. Also, do not continue if you feel a burning sensation in your nose, pain or a feeling of fullness in your ears.
For children over 4 years of age, sinus irrigation should be performed under the close supervision of an adult. If your child doesn’t want to rinse with saline, you can use a seawater spray instead of regular rinsing.