Hello All,
I’ve been using the neti pot for a month. The water flows from left to right with ease but trickles or does not flow from right to flow. I do not have a blocked nose. I can breathe from both nostrils. In fact, I breathe easier from my right nostril. I use plain water (nothing added).
Did anyone have the same problem? Any suggestions?
I wish I knew. I have the same exact observation, though I use a saline additive to the water.
This may be a hydrodynamics issue, with something preventing water from getting into the left side (although it can leave the right side), some tissue acting like a valve. That would explain why the water doesn’t flow but you can breathe better from the right nostril. Maybe you have a deviated septum. IANAD.
Also you should use a saline solution that matches the salinity of the mucous membranes. Using plain water can irritate the membranes. IANAD.
Do not use plain tap water. Use distilled water and a saline additive made specially for neti pots/bottles.
My PCP told me that the tap water issue depends on your latitude and local water supply. I can’t find a cite for this on my phone, but she’s pretty trustworthy.
Regardless of your latitude and water supply, and whether you use distilled, boiled or straight from the tap water, you **must **use the saline packet (or make your own) otherwise you are completely defeating the purpose of the rinse. Like **CookingWithGas **said, you are irritating the thing you’re trying to soothe by using plain water.
And do yourself a favor: if you’re going to use tap water, boil it for 5 or 6 minutes first.
Sell your neti pot on ebay and buy yourself a Water Pik adapter for nasal irrigation.