Ever since Oprah's good pal Dr. Mehmet Oz introduced millions of viewers to the Neti pot, the little nasal irrigation system, people have been sloshing warm water through their nostrils more than ever. The goal is to clear out pollutants, ease sinus and allergy congestion, and soothe irritated nasal passages.
While I'll admit it sounds like torture to me — I personally HATE having anything in my nose, especially liquid! — devotees claim it feels great, and helps keep them free of sinus pain and pressure.
But there is such a thing as too much of a good thing: researchers presenting at the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology report that overuse of Neti pots can actually contribute to sinus infections. Apparently using the pot a few times a week during a particularly stuffed-up time is okay, but doing the nasal wash every day can actually backfire by tweaking the "immunological biochemistry of the nose." People who stopped the daily washes had a 62 percent decrease in sinus infections.
The bottom line: use the Neti pot in moderation and with care.
Maybe true, but as one who has suffered with sinus issues for 30 years, I have found that daily use of my neti-pot has decreased the number of sinus infections to “rarely” from “often”. I HIGHLY recommend them and have even bought several for family and friends who have similar sinus issues!
I suffered from migraine level sinus headaces several times a year. A friend of mine(non Neti user)purchased one for me. Once I figured out that you actually pour the saline solituion into your nasal cavity…and overcame that horror… rather than steam your nose, I found releif. I however, do not use it daily. I use it when I need to, when I know that conjestion is getting the best of my sinuses. As with all things there is no across the board work all for the use of it. Common sense would lead you to think that if you are experiencing more sinus infections after initiating the Neti then maybe you are flushing too much. Unfortunately, I have a few family members of higher knowledge that are short on common sense and so these things must be spelled out for them. My advise would be if giving a Neti also give guidance and check back frequently
Most people know their bodies and their symptoms and can regulate what their use should be. MOST I said.
I think Janet’s right about using common sense on this one. My mother has used one at the advice of her doctor. She’s been plagued with sinus problems for years-even had to change jobs because of it. As with most anything people can go nuts over something they saw on Oprah/TV. And unfortunately, some book smart people can be very short on common sense and street smarts. (I know-I tend to be this way if I’m not careful.)
Relief for sinus infections and pressure is a great thing though.
I tried it to relieve the occasional runny noise and sinus headache, but it doesn’t do much for me. Wish that it would.