Is nasal irrigation effective in controlling allergy symptoms?

Question

Does nasal irrigation work to help prevent sinus headaches and other allergy symptoms? I have found good instructions on performing it, but frankly, I am little bit nervous about putting liquid down the back of my throat until I know how effective it is.

Answer 1

Nasal irrigation is certainly one treatment for allergy symptoms (be sure you use only non-steroidal based nasal sprays such as normal saline solution).

I would also suggest seeing an allergist. Your primary care doc can refer you to a competent one. He will do tests to determine exactly what you are allergic to and devise an individualized treatment plan to relieve all your symptoms. This plan may include prescription nasal sprays (both Flonase and Nasonex are non-steroidal and work very well - I have used both.) It may also include oral meds and/or allergy shots. Some people take weekly shots. But I believe there is a shot out now that is given at the beginning of allergy season and takes care of symptoms during the entire season. A good question for the allergist.

Another thing you can do for yourself until you see an allergist is to get Breathe Right allergy strips. They are slim bandaid-like strips that go over the bridge of the nose and hold the nasal passages open so that you can breathe freely. You can still use nasal sprays if you wish. Most people are bothered more by allergy symptoms in the evening. The nasal strips are usually put on at bedtime so that you can breathe thru the night and get a good sleep.

If you live in an area that has Safeway stores they sell a generic brand at the pharmacy that is identical to the name brand and cost much less. If not, look at other grocery stores, discount stores, and drug stores. I'm sure there other generic brands out there.

Pls consider an allergist. This is his specialty and he can make a much better diagnosis than your primary care doc and give you a treatment plan that will work for you.

I suffered terribly from allergies for years until I found a good allergist. Now I have a treatment plan that I follow and the misery is gone!!

Hope this helps!!

Answer 2

Yes nasal irrigation can help. It helps to clean out all of the junk that causes
problems, like mucous. It's fun to perform. : { I have been remiss in doing it
lately. It's not a cure; just makes your sinuses feel a little better. Good luck.

Answer 3

I tried for the first time, the saline rinse, and it worked pretty good, but it did not clear up my nose 100 percent. It is very easy to do, and you will get instant relief. You should have a plastic bottle that you use, and you do not have to put your head back, actually, they say to keep your head forward, and breath through your mouth. When you squeeze the bottle, it pushes the warm solution, up the nose and out the other side. Do not swallow. Then you do the other side, and soon, you will be able to breath easier. Do not be nervous about doing this, it is easy, and you will be breathing ,a lot better.