Originally published September 22 2005
Nasal washing can help relieve chronic sinus symptoms, study says
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
Seventy million Americans suffer from chronic sinus symptoms -- like pain, pressure and congestion -- and usually turn to remedies like psuedoephedrine pills or chemical nasal sprays, but a press release from Business Wire says a new study by University of Wisconsin Medical School-Madison researchers suggests regular nasal washing with warm water and 2 percent saline may relieve these symptoms.
Sinus problems typically drive many of the 70 million American sufferers to drug-based commercial remedies like psuedoephedrine pills or chemical nasal sprays.
But a new study, published in the medical journal Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, shows that the simplest approach might be the best - regular nasal washing with warm water and 2 percent saline.
Researchers found that the all-natural treatment not only clears up sinus symptoms associated with cold and flu, allergies and sinusitis on a long-term basis, it is proven to improve overall quality of life in patients with sinus symptoms.
The study is the first to follow participants using nasal wash treatment, or hypertonic saline nasal irrigation (HNSI), over a long period of time.
Secondary outcome measures including frequency and pattern of HSNI use, side effects and satisfaction showed that participants reported improved quality of life and frequent, satisfying use of nasal washing.
Results of the study showed decreased sinus symptoms, overall improved health and, particularly intriguing according to the authors, a decreased use of sinus medication among nasal wash users.
These results add to initial studies that were done by the University of Wisconsin supporting nasal washing as a successful way to treat sinus problems over a short period of time.
"This study provides further scientific data to support nasal washing as a safe, effective and satisfying method for relieving and preventing sinus problems," said Dr. Diane G. Heatley, a Madison, Wis., otolaryngologist.
Like weight control, sinus problems must be managed over time."
Dr. Heatley has been recommending nasal washing to patients of her ear, nose and throat practice for more than 10 years.
In 1997, she developed a commercial version of the neti pot suitable for family home use.
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