
How many times a day should I use a nasal irrigator for rhinitis?
I am a 35-year-old female patient with allergic rhinitis. After using a nasal irrigator to rinse my nasal passages three times daily, my nasal dryness and itching have worsened. I would like to know what the correct frequency of nasal irrigation should be.

It is generally recommended to use a nasal irrigation device once or twice daily, depending on individual symptoms and medical advice. For individuals with mild allergic rhinitis or chronic rhinitis, daily nasal irrigation can help remove allergens, dust, and secretions from the nasal passages, alleviating nasal congestion and discomfort. If symptoms are more severe, such as excessive nasal discharge or persistent nasal blockage, irrigation can be increased to twice daily, performed in the morning and evening. However, excessively frequent irrigation may disrupt the normal physiological environment of the nasal mucosa, leading to dryness or irritation, which may negatively affect nasal health.
When using a nasal irrigator, it is advisable to use warm saline solution or a commercially prepared nasal rinse solution, avoiding tap water to prevent potential infections. Prior to use, ensure that the irrigator is clean and hygienic, and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully to prevent trauma from excessive water pressure. If symptoms do not improve or if abnormalities such as pain or bleeding occur, discontinue use immediately and consult a healthcare professional. Additionally, maintaining indoor air humidity and minimizing exposure to allergens in daily life, along with other therapeutic measures, can help better manage symptoms of rhinitis.