Introduction to Neti Pots and Safety Concerns
Neti pots and similar sinus rinsing tools are a staple in many households, but in rare cases, these devices can be deadly when not used safely.
Last year, a 71-year-old Texas woman died after rinsing her sinuses with tap water from a recreational vehicle, according to a recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report. The report attributed the death to primary amebic meningoencephalitis, a rare brain infection caused by an amoeba. PAM is often fatal and is typically associated with swimming or water recreation. However, the condition can also occur when contaminated water is used to rinse the sinuses.
Benefits of Sinus Rinsing
Dr. Jayanti Pinto, a professor and director of rhinology at the University of Chicago Medicine, said such infections are extremely rare and can be avoided by following a few simple guidelines. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, sinus rinsing can remove debris from the nose and loosen mucus, relieving symptoms of sinus infections, allergies, and colds. Pinto echoed these benefits and said he recommends the “low-risk, low-cost and high-benefit” treatment to almost all patients with nasal problems.
Safe Usage Guidelines
Those looking to take advantage of these health benefits while mitigating their risk of rare infections can keep in mind the following guidance.
Do Not Use Untreated Tap Water
Sinus rinses should be performed with store-bought distilled or sterilized water, or with tap water that has been boiled at home, Pinto said. Using purified water eliminates the possibility of rare infections. Room temperature or slightly warm water is generally recommended, Pinto added.
Clean Your Neti Pot Regularly
Neti pots should be cleaned regularly, and Pinto said he recommends washing the devices weekly. He added that cleaning the tip of the pot after each use, either with soap and water or an alcohol swab, keeps the device free of surface bacteria.
Use a Saline Solution
To reap the benefits of a sinus rinse without irritating the nose, Mayo Clinic recommends using salt water. Kits containing saline solution tablets are available at most drug stores. While these are usually inexpensive, Pinto added that if cost is a barrier, homemade solutions can be used so long as the recipe comes from a trusted source. He recommended recipes from government or hospital websites which result in normal saline. Mayo Clinic provides full instructions on how to properly rinse the sinuses on its website.
Conclusion
In conclusion, neti pots can be a safe and effective way to relieve sinus symptoms when used properly. By following the guidelines outlined above, individuals can minimize their risk of rare infections and enjoy the benefits of sinus rinsing. It is essential to remember that while the risk of infection is rare, it is not worth ignoring the safety precautions. Always use purified water, clean your neti pot regularly, and use a saline solution to ensure a safe and effective sinus rinse.
FAQs
- Q: What type of water should I use with my neti pot?
A: Use store-bought distilled or sterilized water, or tap water that has been boiled at home. - Q: How often should I clean my neti pot?
A: Clean your neti pot weekly, and clean the tip after each use with soap and water or an alcohol swab. - Q: What type of solution should I use for sinus rinsing?
A: Use a saline solution, either from a kit or a homemade recipe from a trusted source, to avoid irritating the nose. - Q: Where can I find instructions on how to properly rinse my sinuses?
A: Mayo Clinic provides full instructions on how to properly rinse the sinuses on its website.
