How Effective are Neti Pots?

Neti pots have been used for centuries for the treatment of colds, cough and several other breathing problems by ancient Indians. Today, these are still used widely and are medically approved to help in the treatment of various ailments. The models now come in different types and makes. You should know more about the uses of neti pots and which type will work best for your condition. Here’s an overview to help you decide its effectiveness.

About Neti Pots

A neti pot is described as a container that rinses the nasal cavity. People use neti pots to treat nasal allergies, colds, cough and sinus problems. A number of neti pot enthusiasts actually say that regular usage of neti pots prove to be more effective and render little or no side effects compared to over-the-counter or OTC medications for the treatment of sinus and nasal problems.

Usage and Maintenance

All you have to do is fill the neti pot with warm saline solution. You can make this by adding salt to warm water or buying saline nasal solution at your nearby drugstore. Stand in front of the sink, tilt your head in a 45-degree angle, position the spout of the pot and allow the water to rush into the higher nostril. The water will flush and cleanse the nasal cavity and exit through the opposite nostril. Everything takes no longer than 20 minutes. There are so many neti pot styles and makes available. These may be made of plastic, ceramic, stainless steel, copper, etc. The cost of each is anywhere between $10 and $25. You can purchase the pots at health food stores, pharmacies and online stores.

If you continue to use neti pots, you will find that nasal irrigation will keep your nasal cavity and sinus clean and disease-free for a long time. You should try to use neti pots once a day for maintenance, although a lot of people also say that 2 to 3 times each week already works wonders. You can adjust the temperature of the water and the sodium according to your needs and response.

Treating Conditions

Neti pot can minimize the symptoms of springtime allergies, hay fever, mold allergy, animal dander allergy, dust allergy, etc. Nasal lavage will eliminate the buildup of mucus in the nasal cavities and clear the area of unwanted irritants. You can use the neti pot 2 to 3 times each day for faster results. Non-allergic rhinitis can also be treated. The process will help get rid of congestion and runny noses.

The device can also be very effective for the treatment of sinusitis. Both acute and chronic sinusitis can be treated by nasal irrigation. For acute sinusitis, individuals might find breathing difficult, so they should irrigate 2 to 4 times each day, depending on their comfort level. For chronic sinusitis, mucus buildup and difficult breathing are the main symptoms. Nasal lavage can still be done even if the sinusitis has been present for 4 to 8 weeks already. Use the pot daily anywhere between 2 and 4 times each day. Observe how you react to the treatment and talk to your doctor for any unusual response.

Patient Response

Patients will respond differently to neti pots, depending on their tolerance and comfort level. The condition you’re trying to treat will also matter a lot so full assessment is important before you start the process. Have the patient consult a doctor first to approve if it’s safe to undergo neti pot activities. Look for the best type of salt that’s compatible with the pot and be cautious about possible side effects. Some patients will do well with frequent irrigation while others require fewer sessions.