Nasal irrigation (nasal rinsing) is the passing of water or saline solution through the nasal passages.
This can be done by using a range of rinsing devices such as:
Nasal irrigation has occurred for many years as it can form part of a religious or traditional cleansing practice.
It may also be used to provide relief for colds, congested sinuses, and allergies.
Nasal irrigation is generally safe but it is essential to:
Harmful microorganisms may be found in any water, including drinking water that has not been correctly:
These microorganisms may include certain amoebae which may be quite safe to drink, but when they are forced into the nasal passage they can live, grow and spread up into the brain.
Once in the brain they can cause amoebic meningitis.
Amoebic meningitis (primary amoebic meningoencephalitis) is a disease that causes inflammation and eventual destruction of the brain and its lining. It is rare but usually fatal.
It is caused by a single-celled amoeba Naegleria fowleri that occurs naturally in fresh water and damp soil.
Naegleria fowleri can thrive in water temperatures between 28 °C and 40 °C.
The following symptoms usually occur within 5 days (between 1 to 7 days) of infection:
Diagnosis must be made by a medical professional. See a doctor or attend a hospital emergency room urgently if you suspect anyone has contracted amoebic meningitis.
Tap water (scheme drinking water) that is chlorinated before being piped to your tap is safe for all ordinary domestic purposes such as:
However, there are a few specialised purposes for which tap water is not suitable such as:
The types of water safe for nasal irrigation include:
To boil water using a kettle, boil the water until the automatic switch turns off. If using a stove top for this, let the water boil until a continuous and rapid stream of air bubbles rise from the bottom of the pot or kettle.
Cool the water until lukewarm.
There are many different ways of rinsing the nasal passages ranging from:
It is important to avoid contaminating the treated water that is to enter the nasal passages.
Article Origin: https://www.healthywa.wa.gov.au/Articles/N_R/Nasal-irrigation-is-it-safe