So, my congestion situation got so serious that a few days ago I bought the SinusRinse Neti Pot since I had heard they work wonders.
Basically, it is a teapot you fill with water and a special powder (which is mostly salt) and pour into your nostrils, one at a time. It actually comes out the other nostril after taking a little tour of the sinuses, bringing all the gunk with it.
Well. Hmm. Okay then.
The first time I used it was utterly disgusting. I was somehow swallowing the stuff and getting it all over my chin and clothes. I needed a bib and thought I was drowning. My nostrils felt clear for about 7 minutes afterwards, then more congested than ever.
I have been using it 2 times a day since then though, and it is improving. The congestion is clearing (though it likely would be anyways by now) and I have learned how to use it neatly without making a mess or swallowing a mixture of salt water and nose goo.
Since I normally get a lot of sinus headaches and grogginess in the spring (seasonal allergies, I suspect) I plan to continue this for a while and hope it keeps my normal spring routine of feeling like ass (I hate spring for this reason. I always feel sick all of March until June!) at bay. I’ll let ya know if it works.
Here is a fun video:
Megan said,
March 26, 2009 @ 12:29 pm
I’m convinced the Neti Pot is one of the greatest inventions of all time. We used to live in Cincinnati (where everyone has a sinus infection year-round) and the NP saved me from poking out my sinuses with a fork! I still use it frequently throughout the spring and it really does help. Keep at it!
Brandy said,
March 26, 2009 @ 4:18 pm
You’re brave. I watch my husband use the Neti Pots and it makes me gag. I just don’t think I can do it.
Leia said,
March 26, 2009 @ 4:47 pm
I’m glad you’re enjoying it! It’s helped my allergies so much I hardly notice them, and I don’t have to use the dreaded decongestant spray anymore! :)
C said,
March 27, 2009 @ 7:15 pm
So glad to hear you are liking the Neti! I love, love, LOVE mine! Nothing has ever helped with my sinuses as much as the Neti Pot. Sounds so funny, but don’t you just feel so clean and refreshed after? ;p