Q: What is nasal irrigation?

A: Nasal irrigation, or called nasal lavage, sinus rinse, nasal wash, or nasal rinse, is a personal hygiene as well as a therapeutic practice in which the nasal cavity is washed with a solution to flush out excess mucus, pathogens, inflammatory factors and debris from the nose and sinuses. It has been practiced in Asia for centuries as one of the disciplines of yoga. Modern clinical studies have demonstrated that nasal irrigation is a simple, safe and effective alternative preventive and therapeutic modality for many common acute or chronic nasal sinus illnesses. Many medical professional societies have endorsed or recommended nasal irrigation for reducing some common nasal or sinus problems.