Nasal Douching

Nasal douching of the nose is the application of a salt water solution to thin down nasal secretions and to improve the nasal environment.  It is often found helpful following surgery to the nose, but it also has significant benefits for patients with rhinitis and sinusitis.  It not only thins the mucus but also has a role in washing out allergens from the nose, thus reducing allergic responses.

The solution is made by taking 1 pint of clean boiled water that has cooled down.  Add 1 level teaspoon of sea salt and 1 level teaspoon of baking soda (bicarbonate of soda).  Gently stir or shake the solution, and once the salts are dissolved, it is ready for use.

The douching can either be performed by taking a palmful of water in clean hands and sniffing it gently into the nose, or it can be instilled by obtaining a syringe from your pharmacy.  If using a syringe, you should fill the syringe with the solution and place inside one nostril at a time.  The angle of the syringe should be as though it is aiming towards the inner aspect of the eye, and the flow of the solution should be firm but gentle.

Nasal douching solutions can also be bought over the counter from your pharmacy.  Sterimar is one such solution and is available as a spray.  In addition, nasal douching kits are available from a company called NeilMed who will supply sachets to dissolve in water and also quite a useful douching bottle with a nozzle.  These kits (NeilMed sinus rinse kit) can be bought over the internet from various suppliers or from the Spire Bristol Hospital pharmacy.

After douching, you should lean forwards to avoid swallowing any of the solution.  It is best done over a basin as it can be quite messy!

Douching should be done 2 to 3 times each day and can be done regularly on a long-term basis without any harm.

If you would like any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.