Sinus rinse removes allergens and improves allergy symptoms.
Fall allergens have begun their onslaught. Ragweed pollen is in the air. Those of us with ragweed allergies have begun our annual misery. Here is an idea that seems to be working for many of our customers (and me). The idea is not new. In fact, it dates back over 800 years. It is sinus irrigation or sinus rinse. This is where one uses a saline solution to irrigate or rinse the sinuses and nasal passages. (Look in this website under Allergy Proofing Products for several excellent sinus products.) This is a safe and very effective way to feel better fast.
Sinus irrigation accomplishes three things. First, it removes the allergens from the sinus passages. Since you are taking away the offending substance your body is not continuing to operate in “defense mode.” You reduce the production of IgE and thereby reduce the symptoms associated with allergy. Secondly, you reactivate the cilia. The cilia are small hairs in the sinuses that facilitate the clearing of fluids and mucus. When allergies are operating in full force these hairs become clogged and cease to function properly. By rinsing you restore their normal operation. Thirdly, sinus irrigation reduces swelling. The swelling is what causes that “stopped up” feeling. Once the swelling goes down, built-up fluids are released and you can breathe again.
Most people usually sinse rinse or irrigate once or twice a day. I try to do it every morning and evening. However, you can do it more often, if necessary. Remember you are using only a saline solution. Some people experience some drying of the nasal passages. Generally, there are no side-effects of doing the sinus rinse more than twice a day.
In short, sinus irrigation or sinus rinse is easy, inexpensive and effective. It takes about as long as brushing your teeth. There are no medicines involved and it is supported by good controlled research.
Here is an extra tip – the 30-second sinus headache cure. When I have a sinus headache, I mix the saline solution using very cold purified water. Sinus rinse with the cold water feels a bit strange, but it does a wonderful job of shrinking the swollen sinus tissues. Nine times out of ten the sinus headache goes away!