
Q I heard nasal irrigation helps. How should I do it, and is it okay to do it every day?
A Saline (0.9%) nasal irrigation is one of the most evidence-based self-care methods for managing post-nasal drip. Using a nasal irrigation device (neti pot or medical irrigator) once or twice a day with saline at near body temperature is effective for clearing secretions and maintaining mucosal moisture.
Detailed Answer
Nasal irrigation physically removes secretions, allergens, and bacteria that have accumulated on the mucosa and supports the function of the mucosal cilia. How to do it: prepare saline (bought at a pharmacy or made with 1 L of boiled water plus 9 g of salt) at about body temperature (around 37 degrees Celsius). Tilt your head 45 degrees and pour into one nostril so that it comes out the other side. Use 150 to 250 mL per session, once or twice a day. Cautions: do not use tap water (which contains chlorine) directly, and wash and dry the irrigation container daily to prevent bacterial growth. Irrigating too often (more than three times a day) can wash away even the protective mucus and actually cause dryness.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
Nasal irrigation aligns with the concept of external nasal treatment in Korean medicine. In Korean medicine, steam therapy (hunjeung) using decoction vapor is also combined to moisten the nasal cavity. Doing irrigation together with decoctions speeds up mucosal recovery.
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