Nasal irrigation

Nasal irrigation, (also called nasal lavage or nasal douche) is a personal practice in which the  is washed to flush out  and debris from the  and. The practice is reported to be beneficial with only minor side effects. Nasal irrigation can also refer to the use of or s to moisten the s.

Medical uses
Nasal irrigation can be an effective therapy to relieve symptoms of both chronic as well as acute sinuitis caused by  such as the. The evidence for use in chronic sinusitis is weak.

It can also be useful for the temporary relief of the symptoms associated with.

Adverse effects
Adverse effects include nasal irritation, nosebleeds, headache, and drainage after the irrigation is done. It is generally well-tolerated.

There is a risk of infection if the water is not sterile or the device is not cleaned after use. If the device is used improperly this can be harmful. In fact, proper application suggests the use of boiled water or. In 2018, a patient was reported to have contracted  after using during nasal irrigation. Rare cases of fatal have occurred due to nasal insufflation of the amoeba  from untreated tap water.

Mechanism of action
Flushing the nasal cavity can soothe inflamed tissue and remove irritants like allergens; it may help clear mucus.

Solutions
The water should not be tap water, which may contain small amounts of bacteria that are safe to drink but may be dangerous in the nose. The water should be sterile or filtered for micro-organisms; if tap water is used it should be boiled. is also sometimes used.

A number of other compounds may be included in irrigation fluids such as the steroid in an effort to treat chronic.

Devices
Neti pots are commonly used and rely on gravity and head position in order to rinse the outer sinus cavities. Typically they have a spout attached near the bottom, sometimes with a handle on the opposite side.

Various squeeze bottles for nasal irrigation have also been used to apply the water.

Bulb syringes are commonly used for infants and children.

There are also irrigation machines available that utilize electric motor-driven pumps.