Nasal douching or "jala-neti" for sinusitis

Originally a yogic tradition nasal Wash, nasal douching, nasal irrigation or "jala neti" is very effective and safe in sinusitis-allergic or infective, post-nasal drip, and post-sinus surgery to clean nasal passages and easy breathing. As an E.N.T. specialist I have witnessed improved quality of life and reduced visits of patients to my clinic. Alternatively saline nasal sprays can also be used to clean the nose and sinuses. Randomized controlled trials ( General of family practice by Dr Rabago) shows that it improves smptoms of sinusitis and quality of life, with decreasing use of medications.

• **Hyper tonic saline used in nasal irrigation improves drainage of secretion by:-
• Improving mucocilliary clearance ( Sinuses are lined by respiratory epithelium with Goblet cells to secrete mucus (forming mucus blanket) and cilia (fine hair like structure) to help trap and propel pollutant and bacteria outward to nose through osteum (opening) of sinuses.
• Helps in thinning of mucus.
• Possibly reduce inflammation.

• **Procedure for "jala-neti"**

You will find so many articles written on procedure and some very cumbersome but believe me it is very simple, there is no need of sophisticated equipments- "It is saline that works not equipment".

• Take slightly warm water in a bowl or "jala-neti pot".
• Add 1/2 teaspoonful of salt and a pinch of sodium-bicarbonate and mix well.
• Lean over sink and keep head bowed slightly.
• Pour some into the palm of your hand and sniff into your nose, alternatively you can use "chip syringe or bulb syringe" or "simple 10 cc syringe" to gently push solution into your nose.
• Let your nose drain by it's own first, you can very gently blow one nostril at a time keeping other nostril closed. Do not blow forcefully.
• Repeat procedure at least 3 times on each side.

It is amazing to see the smiling patients with easy breathing. Saline irrigation should be included in daily hygiene of people with sinusitis or post nasal drip with brushing of teeth.