Neti Pots: 5 Things You Need to Know to Use Nasal Rinsing Devices Safely! Family Health
A neti pot may be short and stout, but is it anything to sing about? Maybe, if you have a cold or sinus issues. Neti pots are nasal rinsing devices that use a saline or saltwater solution to moisten nasal passages exposed to dry indoor air. But be careful. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), improper use of these neti pots and other nasal rinsing devices can increase your risk of infection. Here are five things you need to know:
- Rinse only with distilled, sterile or previously boiled water. Tap water isn’t safe for use as a nasal rinse because it’s not adequately filtered or treated. If boiling water, boil for three to five minutes, then cool until it is lukewarm.
- Follow the instructions. Information included with the irrigation device should give specific instructions about its use and care
- If your immune system isn’t working properly, consult your health care provider before using any nasal irrigation systems.
- Wash the device and dry the inside with a paper towel or let it air dry between uses.
- Make sure the device fits the age of the person using it. Some children are diagnosed with nasal allergies as early as age 2 and could use nasal rinsing devices at that time, if a pediatrician recommends it. But very young children might not tolerate the procedure.
Get even more tips via the FDA here!
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