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Nasal Washes
Over the years, recommendations for replacing nebulizer tubing have changed. Previously, the general guideline was to replace tubing every six months. However, with a growing emphasis on infection control and the recognition that tubing cannot be sterilized, many now recommend changing it monthly.
A recent review of the National Jewish Health website even suggests replacing it every two weeks. Given the cost is around $8 and the critical importance of preventing infections, especially for those prone to them, some people opt to change nebulizer tubing weekly. It’s a simple and inexpensive step to enhance health and peace of mind.
This brings up a related concern: the use of NeilMed Sinus Rinse bottles. The manufacturer recommends replacing these bottles every three months. Unlike nebulizer tubing, the bottles can be cleaned with detergent and water. However, the bottles cannot be sterilized.
For individuals dealing with sinus infections, this raises potential risks. The bottle, being used to prevent infections, could become colonized with a bacterial biofilm and contribute to infections.
Some nasal wash users opt for boilable syringes for better sterilization. However, for serious sinus conditions requiring large-volume rinses, syringes can be impractical.
Personally, I prefer NeilMed’s Squeezie. Its flexible plastic and wide mouth allow for thorough cleaning of the inside with a soft brush. And, I have sterilized it in my Bololo without any issues. Still, its 8-ounce capacity may not suit those regularly using the large 16- bottle, often with a medication added.
Another option might be to replace sinus rinse bottles more frequently. These bottles are similarly priced to nebulizer tubing and could be replaced weekly if your budget permits. Currently, NeilMed sells the bottles with solution packets and I’ve reached out to them to suggest offering standalone bottles, potentially at a discount for bulk purchases.
Share with us what you do. What makes you feel confident rinsing your sinuses daily?
Before making any changes to your current practices, first consult with your medical team.
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I received mine yesterday via
Bololo.net
D
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1 Reactionkathyhg. I purchased the Growns BB Sterilizer & dryer from Amazon. I've been using it for several months and am pleased with the performance.
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3 ReactionsThis is what I have and rarely use now. It's like a water pik setup with long, thin tubing that can only be sterilized with 1:2 vinegar/water solution or running a diluted bleach solution through it. I haven't been diagnosed with MAC and honestly don't even know if I have it. But I bought this after I had maxillary sinus surgery around 2013. Imagine this wouldn't work if you do have MAC and am curious if any of you use this?
https://sinupulse.com/products/sinupulse-elite-nasal-sinus-irrigation-system
I prefer to use airway clearance and nasal rinse devices that I can sterilize.
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1 ReactionJust a word of caution… If you have any type of a mouth appliance, do not put it in the baby bottle sterilizer or boil it. I’ve already made that $600 mistake. There are other ways of sterilizing these devices, including using tablets like Retainer Brite and UV retainer cases.
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1 ReactionI have a mouth guard and use tablets and I appreciate you bringing this up because one of my conundrums as a person with Bronchiectasis is the use of a Waterpik. I absolutely need to use one b/c of dramatic bone recession I have had since a very young woman and without using it on a daily basis I would have no teeth! Luckily, because of my excellent dental hygiene I have done well, but now I am stumped as to what to do given the worsening of my lung condition as I only clean the Waterpik with Vinegar solution or hydrogen peroxide. Any thoughts on this would be much appreciated.
I have been boiling my Squeezie for years, no problem
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3 ReactionsI've owned 2 of the SinuPulse machines. The first one died after several years and I purchased a new one. I thought it worked well as it pumps more saline through than the squeeze bottles.
Before I became aware that these things should be sterilized I did what you did. It's been awhile since I have used the SinuPulse. Now I use the Squeezie which I learned about here. It might be other changes I've made in general, so hard to say, but with the Squeezie I seem to get fewer sinus infections (knock on wood!)
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1 ReactionThanks for the feedback! Luckily I don’t even get sinus infections nor did I before the surgery. They detected that my right maxillary sinus was full of “prurient material” in an x ray for another purpose and hence the surgery. Sounds like not a good idea to use that little machine b/c of the sterilization issue.
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1 ReactionI always think of the maxim “do no harm!”