Nasal and Sinus Saline Irrigations

Nasal and sinus saline (salt water) irrigation is one of the oldest and safest remedies for nasal and sinus disease. It may be effective for many sinonasal conditions, from the common cold to chronic sinusitis.

Mildly warmed sterile water is mixed with salt—and often a buffering agent such as baking soda—then applied into the nose. It is usually recommended that you lean over a sink or perform the irrigation in the shower. The liquid will enter one nostril and then exit both nostrils, allowing the nasal passages to be cleansed of mucus and crusts.