Nasal washes: what is the correct way to do them?
To keep the inside of the nostrils moist, remove the impurities of the inhaled air (dust, allergens, pathogens) and free the respiratory tract, nasal washes represent a very valid solution.
The passage of the liquid in the nasal cavities also serves to thin the excess secretions. In the following paragraphs we will see what is the correct way to do nasal washes, but first we recommend a video with a roundup of foods against colds. Take note!
What are nasal washes for?
Nasal washes are an effective treatment and natural remedy especially when used together with an "incisive medical therapy to soothe the ailments due to the most common infectious or chronic diseases of the respiratory tract.
Cleansing the nose is important precisely because dust, pollutants, bacteria and viruses often stagnate inside the nasal cavities. Passing the saline solution into the nostrils through the nasal washes favors the release of the ducts, easier breathing and dehumidification of the mucous membranes.
Practicing nasal washes is an excellent habit, especially for those who work in contact with fine dust, indoors or in a dry climate. They are also suitable for daily hygiene in children, especially for children who still cannot blow the nose autonomously. By carrying out nasal washes consistently every day you can prevent:
- Rhinosinusitis
- Cold
- Respiratory allergies
- Bronchitis
- Asthma
- Stuffed nose
- Sense of pressure on the sinuses
- Halitosis
- Cough
- Itchy and itchy nose
- Crusting
- Rhinorrhea
- Sore throat
- Tendency to snore
- Ear infection
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How do nasal washes work?
- Nasal washes work through a mechanical effect, thoroughly cleaning the mucous membrane of the nose. This will make it easy to remove air impurities (such as allergens) and excess mucus, especially if you have ongoing respiratory tract infections.
- Nasal washes play a fundamental role as they help restore the defensive function of the mucous membrane of the nose, compensating or promoting the transport of mucus.
In addition, they reduce nasal congestion, draining excess fluids from the mucous membranes and preserving the natural functioning of all cavities. - Finally, nasal washes are essential because they promote the natural regeneration of the cells of the mucous membrane of the nose.
How to do nasal washes correctly?
To carry out the treatment of nasal washes it is advisable to have a syringe without a needle, or some devices such as vials or sprays ready for use and available in pharmacies. In the case of the syringe, just fill it with 20ml of physiological solution. Let's see what they are. the steps to do nasal washes in an easy way.
- Stand in front of the sink and bend your head to the side, also flexing it forward.
- Breathe with your mouth open
- Place the syringe or the spray for nasal washing at the entrance of the first nostril (the jet must be directed towards the ear on the same side)
- Deliver the physiological or isotonic solution
- The liquid will come out from the opposite nostril bringing with it the secretions to be eliminated
- Repeat everything with the other nostril as well
- At the end keep the head tilted forward for a few moments to let the nostrils drip
- At this point, gently blow your nose
The ideal solutions to use for nasal washes
The most suitable solutions for nasal washes can be:
- Isotonic, such as physiological solution; they respect the physiology of the nasal mucosa and help restore its natural protective function.
- Hypertonic, such as sea water; has a higher concentration of salts; they are and are indicated to provide a decongestant action, they help drain thick mucus secretions from the nasal cavity.
Be careful, to be optimal, nasal wash solutions should be sterile and preservative-free. Furthermore, saline solutions that are too concentrated are harmful, as they inhibit and alter the normal activity of the nasal cavities.
Nasal washes: side effects and contraindications
Unlike decongestant sprays for topical use, nasal washes are not responsible for phenomena of addiction or dryness of the mucous membranes.
However, nasal wash treatment should not be done in the presence of acute inflammation or nasal injury. Furthermore, this practice is absolutely to be avoided in case you suffer from nose bleeds (epistaxis).
