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Definition

Nasal irrigation is the practice of flushing the nasal cavity with a sterile solution. The solution may contain antibiotics.

Purpose

Nasal irrigation is used to clear infected sinuses or may be performed after surgery to the nose region. It may be performed by adding antibiotics to the solution to treat nasal polyps, nasal septal deviation, allergic nasal inflammation, chronic sinus infection, and swollen mucous membranes. Irrigation may also be used to treat long-term users of inhalants, such as illicit drugs (cocaine), or occupational toxins, like paint fumes, sawdust, pesticides, or coal dust.

Precautions

Nasal irrigation should not be performed on people who have frequent...