Try A Neti Pot: It's Better Than Nasal Decongestants!
I've suffered from year-round allergies -- indoor and outdoor -- for over 20 years. For 20 of those years I made the mistake of using over-the-counter nasal decongestants, and sadly I got seriously addicted to them.
I began using them when I was a teenager because, at that time, when I developed my allergies and as they got steadily worse year after year, it seemed like nothing else could give me the relief I needed. At night was the worst because I couldn't sleep when my head was plugged up, and sometimes even the Benedryl I took didn't work, so I resorted to the nasal decongestants.
It wasn't long before I was using a nasal decongestant on a daily basis.
Back then, people didn't really know how dangerous over-the-counter nasal decongestants could be, or how they could cause rebound nasal congestion, as well as mess up the inner lining of your nose.
It wasn't until 2 years ago and after doing a ton of research online that I decided to go cold turkey off my nasal decongestant -- and believe me, that was a real eye opener! Fortunately, I'd begun working from home at the time so if I couldn't sleep because of my allergies I'd just get up and work until I was too tired to care and then I'd go to sleep.
Finally, I was off the nasal decongestant for good, but it took months before my nose felt normal again.
During all that research I did, one of the things I discovered was a neti pot to help eliminate sinus and head colds.
A Neti Pot looks like a smaller version of Aladdin's magic lamp.
Neti Pots originated in India, and come from the Ayervedic/Yoga tradition.
There are many different types and sizes of Neti Pot, but the most common are ceramic Neti Pots and plastic, non-breakable Neti Pots.
To use a Neti Pot, you simply put a mixture of warm water and non-iodized salt in it and then pour the mixture into your nose. (Don't worry, it doesn't go down your throat... because your head it tilted parallel to the ground.)
The theory behind using a Neti Pot to clear your sinuses is that the process thins the mucous and makes it easier for you to get rid of it. It helps to wash away all the gunk that gets stuck in your sinuses too, so you can breathe more freely.
Many people have found Neti Pots to be the best solution for relieving allergies as well as sinus problems.
Advantages Of Using A Neti Pot:
1. Neti Pots are non-addicting.
This is one of the biggest advantages for me, after being addicted to nasal decongestants for so long. Trying to find something that is not addicting, but that still gets the job done is a real challenge. A Neti Pot was the answer for me.
2. You can make the mixture for your Neti Pot at home.
Again, a big plus. Sea salt is very inexpensive and lukewarm water of course is easy to come by as well. For many years, I spent big money on those nasal decongestants and knowing how much I'm saving now by using a Neti Pot is so nice.
3. Neti Pots provide lots of types of relief.
A Neti Pot alleviates facial pain, nasal congestion, and pressure.
4. A Neti Pot eliminates the need for other forms of sinus relief.
When you use a Neti Pot, you won't need nasal decongestant sprays, antibiotics, and even over-the-counter allergy/pain medications any longer. Here are some ways that Neti Pots have made life better for a number of people.
Disadvantages Of Using A Neti Pot:
1. The Neti Pot can be fragile and may break easily.
That is, unless you purchase a plastic Neti Pot.
2. It can be somewhat awkward to use a Neti Pot.
You have to twist and bend just right to get the water to go where you want and keep from swallowing it. It may seem uncomfortable at first, but after a few tries, you'll have the process of using a Neti Pot down pat.
3. Cleaning the Neti Pot can be an issue.
Depending on what your Neti Pot is made of, it can have small pores where bacteria and dirt can get stuck. Just be sure to clean your Neti Pot thoroughly after each use.
How To Properly Use A Neti Pot:
As you can tell, I really prefer using a Neti Pot over nasal decongestants. The advantages far outweigh the disadvantages as far as I'm concerned, and anything that keeps my sinuses clear has my full support!
Photos: Before & After Using A Neti Pot
Read Jeff's description of these photos to see how the Neti Pot made a difference for him... before and after.
Reviews From Others Who Have Used Neti Pots
Benefits Of A Neti Pot
Using A Neti Pot After Becoming Addicted To Afrin Decongestant
A Neti Pot As An Alternative To Nasal Sprays
Reviews Of Both Plastic & Ceramic Neti Pots
Nasal decongestants can be a real problem as they have a rebound effect (rhinitis medicamentosa) as you've sadly experienced. They really are addictive and it's important not to use them for more than a few days at a time. If someone is trying to come off them they should try nasal irrigation with a hypertonic solutions in order to combat the inflammation caused by the rebound effect. Good to hear the neti pot is working so well for you!
I have been using a Neti Pot for nearly a year now. It definitely helps with my chronic sinus problems...but it has NOT cured them. Please do not tell people that they will be able to stop taking allergy meds, etc. This will just cause unnecessary suffering and disappointment. Most sinus sufferers need to do a combination of things. For me (as one example), this includes the Neti (2x day), a 24-hour allergy med (e.g., Zyrtetc), and a steroid nasal spray (e.g., Nasonex), etc. Maybe some of you will be luckier than I, but most probably will not.
One last thing: do NOT use plain tap water (especially warm tap water) in your Neti Pot. At the very least use a Brita and warm it (in glass) in the microwave.
I am an ENT surgeon, and there is something WAY better than a neti pot...it's called Sinus Rinse (www.sinusrinse.com). I do not work for this company, but recommend this to any patient with chronic sinusitis.
Aloha from Kona Hawaii, i LOVE my Neti Pot. i had been suffering from Sinus/Ear problems for about 2 years. This caused me to be dizzy and all around a grouch!! After only one month of using my Neti Pot I have NOT had any Sinus or Middle ear problems. Also here on the Big Island we have a lot of VOG Volcanic Gas which also did a number on my Sinus. The Neti Pot usage has really given me total relief from this problem as well!!!! TOTALLY worth the $10.00 sure beats buying medication every week that NEVER worked!!!!!!!!!