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NASAL HYGIENE AND OPTIMAL NASAL BREATHING
To keep the mucous membranes of the upper airway healthy, proper mucous flow is necessary. Poor flow often leads to swollen tissues and possible infections in the nose, sinuses, lungs and bronchi.
The mucous covering the nasal cavity and sinuses is propelled toward the throat by the thousands of minute cilia lining these cavities.
It is extremely important to keep the cilia and the tissues lining the nasal cavity and sinuses healthy so as to maintain the normal cleansing activity of the mucous flow. If the flow is slowed or interrupted by allergies or viruses, ciliary action is inhibited and these delicate tissues will enlarge, further blocking mucous flow. Infections may ensue.
Good nasal hygiene, just like good oral hygiene, may be very important to many children and adults. The following are suggestions that may be helpful for improving and maintaining good nasal hygiene:
1) Concentrate on breathing through the nose. Lip exercises one hour daily help insure nasal breathing during this time.
2) Nasal Lavage
Place 1 teaspoon non-iodized salt and 27 ounces warm water in a Water Pic container. Use the special nasal tip provided and set the Water Pic at its LOWEST setting. Place tip in one nostril and allow the salt solution to be pulsed through one nostril and out the other. Repeat on the other side using most of the salt solution. (Run one bowl clean water through the Water Pic system after use to clean the salt from the machine.)
3) Medication
Do not use codeine, phenergan or antihistamines as they slow the action of the cilia and inhibit mucous flow. Use other medication such as Sudafed and Guaifed sparingly. Beconase or Vancenase may be used as directed.
4) Grandma may have been right. Hot tea with lemon or hot chicken soup before bedtime has been shown helpful in promoting good nasal breathing.
5) Drink at least 6 glasses of water daily and use a humidifier at night.
Follow these simple instructions, Bon Nasale!