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Allergies

Nasal Irrigation

Nose AllergiesMany people, especially those with allergies, often develop sinusitis and even ear infections because of failure to remove the excess mucus and pus from the nasal cavities. The removal of this mucus will often clear the sinus infection, stop the postnasal drainage and cough. To do this, the following instructions must be carefully followed:

  1. Take 1 pint of tepid water (not necessary to boil) and add 1 level teaspoon of salt, or use the nasal irrigation (such as Ayr Sinus Rinse) suggested by your doctor.
  2. Blow the nose gently to remove as much mucus as possible. In the case of a child who is unable to blow his nose, use a small rubber ear syringe (not plastic) and suck out the mucus.
  3. Put the child on his back with the head hanging way over the bed so that he appears to be standing on his head, or place yourself in that same position.
  4. Put one medicine dropper full of salt solution in nostril- sip up and blow this out. Repeat in other nostril. In the case of a small child, suck it out with the ear syringe. This should be repeated several times until the returns are clear.

This procedure may be done several times a day or used whenever necessary, but it is suggested that you do it at least morning and night.

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Last Reviewed: Jun 06, 2006

Jonathan Bernstein, MD Jonathan Bernstein, MD
Associate Professor of Medicine
College of Medicine
University of Cincinnati

David I Bernstein, MD David I Bernstein, MD
Professor of Medicine
College of Medicine
University of Cincinnati

I Leonard Bernstein, MD I Leonard Bernstein, MD
Clinical Professor Emeritus
College of Medicine
University of Cincinnati