A co-worker tried one these things year last... she always had allergies, was sick, congested, etc.
I didn't follow up to see if it had long term effects, or was just like a saline nose spray that was more temporary.

For some reason, I can see this going horribly wrong for me. I would probably end up inhaling the water.

If you're doing it correctly, the only long term effect is that you'll be breathing easy. If you use too much salt, or the water is too hot or cold, you could irritate the sensitive skin inside your nasal passages. If you're doing it wrong, you'll know right away because it'll burn slightly or feel uncomfortable. If you're doing it right, it'll feel warm and wonderful.

Just make sure you keep your mouth open and breathe through your MOUTH and not your nose. I only had to make that mistake once.

fitsugar, thanks! I get horrible allergies so, this sounds like a good idea. I'm glad you gave us more information.

Often it just seems like one of my nostrils is clogged... I don't have allergies (at least I don't think I do)... & yes this seems reeeeealy wierd, but it just works. Really helps clear out my congestion. My girlfriend is allergic to lots of stuff, has athsma, & it helps her out a ton too.

i'm dying laughing at that video!

I have a plastic one and I bring it with me when I visit my brother because I'm allergic to his dogs. It's so easy to do and really makes a difference.

Yeah, I know a couple people who use these things. I should probably try it because I'm ALWAYS congested... but I can only envision that painful feeling you get when you get water up your nose when swimming!

Let me assure you that in NO WAY is this at all painful. Seriously. It feels good. You just have to make sure you're keeping your head tilted down, so the water goes out your other nostril, and not down the back of your throat. The water should feel nice and warm, not too cold or hot. You'll love it.

They sell Neti Pot salt. Do I have to use this?

Check out GiggleSugar's take on the neti pot - it features Reese Witherspoon!!! You'll love it.

I have one of these! It's especially great when you're congested.

Good question about the salt. No - you don't have to use the Neti Pot salt they sell. I use the fine sea salt they sell in bulk at health food stores. If you buy salt from the grocery store, make sure it's NOT iodized. That'll irrate your schnoz.

Does anyone know what store sells these? I've been asking all the local drug stores, and they all think I'm crazy when I ask about them.

I use saline spray every night.

whoa that video is crazy! I'm always stuffed up so I'll have to check out Earthfare & Whole Foods for this!

My mom said after the fourth allergist told her to use saline spray -two sprays to each nostril at night and two sprays to each nostril in the morning, she finally decided to do it. She says her face is not nearly as swollen as before.
I also use for dark circles that knock off from Strivectin. I think it is called Dermactin. It is great for dark circles.

OMG that women has a CRAZY look in her eyes! That video is soooo funny! Cool that it works, though -

i got so excited after reading this, that i ordered one immediately. i've been an allergy sufferer for YEARS and have been committed to my saline spray for i don't know how long...but i think this sounds like such a healthier way to get those nasal passages cleared out!

Warm saline cleansing works better than saline spray because it floods the sinuses- but saline spray is better than nothing.

BaltimoreGal