Proper nasal rinsing can help reduce uncomfortable symptoms in allergic rhinitis and sinusitis.

Reader Yen (female, 26 years old, Ho Chi Minh City) : Doctor, I would like to ask how many times a day I should rinse my nose with a nasal rinse bottle and whether daily nasal rinsing causes any harm? I have sinusitis, and recently, with the changing weather, I frequently experience headaches and green postnasal drip. After rinsing, I feel better, but the headache returns after about 2-3 hours, so I rinse my nose continuously. I'm worried about potential damage to my nose. Also, what is the difference between using a nasal rinse bottle and a nasal spray? Please guide me on how to properly clean my nose.

Doctor, I have another question: what is the correct dosage for dorithricin lozenges, and is it appropriate to use them whenever I have a sore throat?

MSc-BS-CKII Le Nhat Vinh – Head of the Interdisciplinary Department – Nam Saigon International General Hospital:

Hello, this is Dr. Vinh, who will answer your questions in order:

1) Does rinsing the nose repeatedly with saline solution, 2-3 times a day, cause damage to the nose?

Every day we are exposed to a lot of dust containing pathogens that cause respiratory diseases. Nasal rinsing with saline solution is an effective hygiene method that helps remove bacteria, reduce mucus buildup, and alleviate discomfort in the nose for people with allergic rhinitis and sinusitis.

However, nasal irrigation needs to be done at the right frequency and in the right way to be effective and avoid unwanted side effects.

Frequency of nasal irrigation:

For patients with acute sinusitis or nasal congestion: Nasal irrigation should be done 2-3 times a day, and once a day once symptoms have subsided.
For those exposed to dusty environments: It is recommended to wash once a day after returning home to remove dirt and bacteria, preventing the causes of illness.

Note: Frequent nasal rinsing, even several times a day for extended periods, can dry out and damage the protective mucous layer of the nasal mucosa, weakening the sinuses' natural immunity and making it easier for bacteria and fungi to enter the nose. Additionally, improper rinsing techniques, such as water entering the ears/eardrum or forceful nose blowing, can cause middle ear infections.

Importantly, nasal rinsing is only a hygiene measure, not a treatment for the underlying cause of the illness.

Doctor's advice: Regarding Ms. Yen's condition, where headaches recur 2-3 hours after nasal irrigation, it indicates that the current nasal irrigation only provides temporary relief from symptoms but does not address the underlying sinusitis. The recurrence after continuous nasal irrigation may be due to damage to the nasal mucosa or a worsening of her sinusitis. Therefore, she should consult an ENT specialist for an accurate diagnosis of the cause and appropriate treatment, instead of merely managing symptoms temporarily with continuous nasal irrigation as she is currently doing.

Instructions on how to properly rinse your nose:

To ensure the safety of the nasal sinuses' natural immune system, Dr. Vinh recommends performing nasal irrigation following these steps:

Prepare:

Use sterile physiological saline solution (0.9% NaCl) at a warm temperature (30-37 degrees Celsius);

Prepare the saline solution using a squeeze-type container or a spray bottle;

Wash your hands and clean the bottle thoroughly before use.

2. Implementation:

Standing in front of the sink, slightly lower your head, tilting it at a 30-degree angle, avoiding tilting your head back so that water doesn't flow into your ears or throat;

Insert the nozzle of the bottle into one nostril, open your mouth, and breathe through your mouth (not your nose).

With the nasal rinse bottle: Gently squeeze to allow the saline solution to flow from one nostril to the other, draining out.

With a nasal spray: Spray slowly so that the solution adheres to the nasal mucosa.

3. After washing:

Gently blow your nose one side at a time to expel any remaining mucus.
If your nasal passages are still not clear, repeat the process once more.
Clean the bottle thoroughly and let it air dry to prevent bacterial contamination.

2) The difference between a nasal rinse bottle and a nasal spray:

Nasal rinse bottle:

Nasal irrigation bottles use plastic containers with a capacity of 240ml or more, designed with a large nozzle to create a strong flow. When using, the user gently squeezes the bottle, creating pressure to push the saline solution (0.9% NaCl) into one nostril, flushing out dirt, bacteria, and mucus through the other nostril. This method focuses on deep cleaning the nasal cavity, supporting clear airways, and providing a comfortable feeling. Users can use it daily to maintain nasal hygiene, but should use it as directed to avoid drying out or damaging the nasal mucosa.

Nasal spray:

Users utilize a compact spray bottle equipped with a misting nozzle. Upon spraying, the solution particles are dispersed into the nasal cavity, adhering evenly to the mucous membrane, helping to thin nasal mucus and aiding in the clearance process of the ciliated mucosa in the nasal sinuses.

2) What is the correct dosage for dorithricin lozenges, and is it appropriate to use them whenever you have a sore throat?

Regarding your question about Dorithricin lozenges, the doctor would like to answer as follows about their uses and appropriate dosage:

Regarding its uses: Dorithricin lozenges contain antibacterial and mild anesthetic agents, helping to relieve sore throats, disinfect the pharyngeal area, and are suitable for mild cases of pharyngitis and throat irritation.

Dosage: For adults and children over 6 years old, suck on 1-2 tablets at a time, not exceeding 8 tablets per day, with an interval of 2-3 hours between tablets. Note that you should not chew or swallow them.

However, if a sore throat lasts for more than 2-3 days or is accompanied by fever, difficulty swallowing, swollen tonsils, etc., the patient should go to the nearest medical facility for a thorough examination by a specialist to prevent the disease from progressing to a more serious stage.

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