BE CLEAR with Bronchiectasis
  • Home
  • Book
  • Consultations
  • Blog
  • Resources
  • Newsletter & Contact
  • FREE ongoing support and education

Nasal Washes

1/13/2025

0 Comments

 
Picture
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 baby bottle sterilizer without any issues. Still, its 8-ounce capacity may not suit those regularly using the large 16 ounce bottle, often with an antibiotic 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 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.

#NasalRinse #NeilMed  #SinusInfection #NasalIrrigation #Rhinosinusitis #SinusInfections #Mucus


0 Comments

Your comment will be posted after it is approved.


Leave a Reply.

    Author

    Linda Cooper Esposito, MPH is a health educator with bronchiectasis. She developed the BE CLEAR Method to Living with Bronchiectasis and writes with compassion  and humor about this chronic lung disease.

    Archives

    May 2025
    April 2025
    March 2025
    February 2025
    January 2025
    December 2024
    November 2024
    October 2024
    September 2024
    August 2024
    July 2024
    June 2024
    May 2024
    April 2024
    March 2024
    February 2024
    January 2024
    October 2023
    September 2023
    August 2023
    July 2023
    June 2023
    May 2023
    April 2023
    March 2023
    February 2023
    January 2023
    December 2022
    November 2022
    September 2022
    August 2022
    July 2022
    June 2022
    May 2022
    February 2022
    November 2021
    September 2021
    July 2021
    June 2021
    February 2021
    January 2021
    December 2020

    Categories

    All
    Airway Clearance
    Eating And Drinking (Nutrition)
    General Information
    Reflux
    Treatment

    RSS Feed

  • Home
  • Book
  • Consultations
  • Blog
  • Resources
  • Newsletter & Contact
  • FREE ongoing support and education