Nasal rinse problems. » Mayo Clinic Connect (2024)

Hi @koa, Welcome to Connect. I also have had my fair share of struggling with nasal rinses. My right nostril used to be really plugged up and congested and I went through 3 or 4 months of using a Mayo Clinic proprietary nasal rinse which I think one of the ingredients was mometasone. It never was a problem shooting the water through the left nostril and out the right side but sometimes it would take me a couple of tries on the right side. I found the NeilMed Sinus Rinse bottle the easiest to use. Here's some information that you might find helpful:

"What if the fluid doesn't come out my other nostril when I rinse?
Yes, it is possible to get water stuck in your sinuses from a sinus rinse. This can happen if your sinuses are swollen or if your head is not tilted properly. If you feel like water is stuck, keep your head upright for a while and try blowing your nose. The water should work its way out."
--- How (and Why) to Use a Sinus Rinse: https://www.verywellhealth.com/sinus-rinse-770624.

I don't have any medical background or training but I think if the solution passes through from one side and you still do the other side, the sinus rinse will still do some good. Have you discussed your problem with your doctor or ENT?

Nasal rinse problems. » Mayo Clinic Connect (2024)

FAQs

Why is nasal rinse not working? ›

This can happen if your sinuses are swollen or if your head is not tilted properly. If you feel like water is stuck, keep your head upright for a while and try blowing your nose. The water should work its way out."

What are the side effects of nasal sinus rinse? ›

Side effects usually do not occur with use of this product. However, if the inside of your nose is very dry and irritated, stinging may occur. If this effect lasts or gets worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

What if the fluid doesn't come out my other nostril when I rinse? ›

Neti pot water stuck in sinuses

If you feel like some of the solution is still in your nasal passages, tilt your head forward and to the opposite side of the nostril you just rinsed, and blow your nose gently.

Can you overdo sinus rinse? ›

DON'T overuse it. Use a nasal rinse as needed, whether it be a few days or once a week. When your allergies are bad, you can use a neti pot or nasal rinse one to two times per day. Be aware, though, that using nasal rinses too often can irritate your nasal passages.

Why do I still feel congested after nasal rinse? ›

Some people experience reflex or rebound congestion with exposure to saline. This condition is usually very transient. If symptoms continue, consider using a Hypertonic (double strength) solution, or use an over-the-counter decongestant for a day or two.

How do you get a sinus rinse to work? ›

Saline Nasal Washes for Sinusitis
  1. Warm the solution a little, if you want. But make sure it's not hot.
  2. Fill a large medical syringe, squeeze bottle, or nasal cleansing pot (such as a neti pot) with the saline solution.
  3. Insert the tip into your nostril, lean over the sink, and squeeze gently. ...
  4. Repeat on the other side.
Aug 16, 2023

What is the safest rinse for sinuses? ›

Use purified water (boiled or distilled). Choose non-iodized salt over iodized. And never attempt nasal irrigation if you have clogged ears or an ear infection. If you're unsure whether it's safe to try nasal irrigation, reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance.

Why use baking soda in nasal rinse? ›

Nasal washes or rinses containing baking soda can be particularly helpful in thinning the mucus out and making it clear. People with allergic rhinitis and acute or chronic sinusitis might consider using baking soda nasal rinses regularly. This can help keep airways clear from mucus and reduce the risk of infection.

What is the best nasal irrigation system? ›

1. Naväge Nasal Care System. The Navage is our top choice for your nasal irrigation needs. The Navage Nasal Irrigation System is a highly effective and convenient solution for people with nasal congestion, sinus pressure, or other symptoms.

Why won't my sinuses drain out my nose? ›

The swelling of the lining also interferes with the way mucus normally drains, making your nose stuffy. Sinusitis can be brought on by an infection; growths in the sinuses, such as nasal polyps; or swelling of the lining of your sinuses due to conditions such as allergies.

Does a sinus rinse reach all sinuses? ›

Participants used a neti pot, which delivers the irrigation fluid to the lower part of the nasal cavity. However, the openings of the sphenoid, ethmoid and frontal sinuses are located at the top of the nasal cavity. Irrigation can only reach these openings when the head is positioned upside down.

What does it mean when one nostril drips clear fluid? ›

Although clear drainage from your nose is a typical symptom of viral infections or allergies, there are instances where a runny nose may be indicative of a more serious condition such as nasal polyps or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak.

Can sinus rinse cause problems? ›

Sinus rinses are safe for most people to use. They are effective for alleviating sinus congestion and eliminating allergens and irritants from the nasal cavity. However, it's important to use sterile water when you do a sinus rinse. Using unsterilized tap water can introduce harmful microorganisms into your sinuses.

Can nasal rinse get stuck in sinuses? ›

Yes, it is possible to get water stuck in your sinuses from a sinus rinse. This can happen if your sinuses are swollen or if your head is not tilted properly. If you feel like water is stuck, keep your head upright for a while and try blowing your nose. The water should work its way out.

When should you not use a sinus rinse? ›

If the rinse is helping, you can irrigate your nose up to three times a day. But nasal rinses should not be used as a preventive measure when you don't have symptoms. It won't prevent sinus issues and can cause infections to develop.

How to clean a deep inside nose? ›

Performing a nasal rinse
  1. Fill the device with saline solution.
  2. Keep your head over a sink or tub and tilt your head sideways to the left.
  3. Gently pour or squeeze the solution into your right nostril. ...
  4. Repeat on the other side.
  5. Gently blow your nose to remove remaining water or mucus.
May 2, 2022

How do you unblock a nose nasal rinse? ›

Place the container's tip or spout inside your top nostril until it forms a gentle seal. Tilt the container or squeeze the bottle so that water flows through your top nostril into your bottom one. You'll feel the water trickle as it flows downward and spills into the sink. Keep going until the solution is gone.

How to drain water trapped in sinuses? ›

How can I naturally drain my sinuses?
  1. Water, water everywhere. Drink fluids and run a humidifier or vaporizer. ...
  2. Nasal irrigation. Nasal irrigation is very effective at relieving nasal congestion and irritation. ...
  3. Steam. Steam helps relieve congestion by loosening mucus. ...
  4. Chicken soup. ...
  5. Warm and cold compresses. ...
  6. Manuka honey.

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