I just read a fascinating piece that claims that nasal irrigation with a neti pot may actually reduce the need for steroid nasal sprays. Since I suffer from occasionally debilitating rhinitis (i.e. everything in my sinuses gets so clogged up that I end up with an inner ear imbalance and intense vertigo that keeps me prostrate on the nearest flat surface), this was good news! I had heard of temporary relief from the neti pot, but had no idea that there might be longer term benefits.
Oddly enough, when I started to get a bout of the sinus congestion and accompanying vertigo a couple of months ago, my husband took me to an ear/nose/throat specialist here in Osaka. The doctor sprayed some stuff up my nose and then used a tool similar to the one that the dentist's use for suction while cleaning your teeth and sure enough, she suctioned my nose. I swear I felt better instantly and had zero vertigo after that (it usually takes a couple of days at minimum for the congestion to reduce enough such that I can walk upright again). Was this another version of the neti pot action?
Maybe this will help other allergy sufferers out there. As for me, I'm pretty sure that owning a neti pot should be on my list of things to do, but just in case I forget, I'm tagging it for the idea file!
My Dad has had sinus problems FOREVER, and when we were kids, he used a water pick (like for your teeth) to irrigate his nose. His doc gave him a special head for it, so he didn't "blow his brains out" as he put it. LOL He said it did help!
ReplyDeleteI've heard amazing things about the neti pot!
ReplyDeleteMy friend recommended one for my sinus infection, though it cleared up with some antibiotics and nose spray so I didn't bother. Maybe next time I'll try the neti pots. If that mext time happanes during this pregnancy, without a doubt. Thanks for the informative post.
ReplyDeleteI have the same problem and depending on which ear I feel like i get water or fluid there as well (which makes me feel dizzy) or that side of my face near my ear feels swollen but for all different reasons.
ReplyDeleteA long time ago I had picked at my ear out of nervousness which (and I always get itchy dry skin) but since I flared that up, went the the dermatologist and took care of it... if I clean it the wrong way or get a cold .. it affects my sinus now... usually I am just patient and take off a few days from work...but I HATE it.. I get that too but for different reasons but effects the same things you are or was feeling... you know what I mean...lol