NASAL AND SINUS SALINE IRRIGATION+

							                                FACIAL PLASTIC, RECONSTRUCTIVE & LASER SURGERY, PLLC
                                        P.O. BOX 2179, POUGHKEEPSIE, NY 12601
                                          845-454-8025 TEL · 845-454-8026 FAX
                                      NASAL AND SINUS SALINE IRRIGATION

Nasal and sinus saline washing is a simple technique of removing bacteria, allergens and mucus
from the inside of the nose, lessening the likelihood of congestion and infection.
Saline irrigation is also very useful to begin a few days after nasal or sinus surgery, to gently clean
out any crusting and help with the healing process.
Making/Preparing the Saline:
• Mix one teaspoon of non-iodized salt and a half teaspoon of baking soda into a pint (16 oz.) of
  warm water (body temperature). If your tap water contains lots of chemicals, use filtered or
  distilled water instead. Keep everything clean and ready in your bathroom, so it is convenient to
  make the saline solution fresh each time.
• If you wish, you may purchase pre-made, sterile saline in large liter bottles from your pharmacy
  instead (a prescription may be required).
Technique/Method of Irrigation:
• Obtain a pediatric bulb syringe from your local pharmacy or baby
  store (make sure it has only one opening). Clean the syringe inside
  and out with a mild soap or detergent and rinse thoroughly.
• Fill the bulb syringe with fresh saline. Lean over your sink (with
  your head down, parallel to the floor), and insert the tip of the bulb
  syringe just inside the nostril pointing towards the inside corner of the
  eye (see diagram). Gently squeeze the bulb to empty the liquid into
  your nose. Then remove the syringe and let the liquid drain back out.
  Keeping your head down at all times will reduce the amount of salt
  water that will get to the back of your throat, and minimize gagging.
• Repeat 3-4 times on each side. Irrigate as vigorously as you feel
  comfortable, but NOT to the point of causing irritation or bleeding.
Alternate Method, “sniffing” Technique:
Pour some of the saline mix into the cupped palm of your hand, and lean over your sink with your
head parallel to the floor. Gently "sniff" the liquid up in to your nose, to a point that you feel
comfortable. Then stop sniffing and allow the fluid to drain out. Repeat 10 times.
Alternate Method, Mechanical Irrigation:
If both of the simple methods above do not work, consider purchasing the "Original Sinus Irrigator
Tip®" with a conventional Water Pik™ or Interplak™ system (it comes with instructions). Ask
your local pharmacy if they stock this item, or look on the internet. You may also consider a Neti
pot, although this is a more passive method of irrigation.
Frequency/How Often:
Irrigate at least twice a day (morning and night), but you may repeat as often as comfortable (it is
not possible to over irrigate). If you are prescribed any other medication to use in the nose, use it
after you have finished irrigation. Brushing your teeth afterwards will help get rid of any aftertaste.
Try to be faithful to this procedure. Most people have excellent results.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask.