The Hydro Pulse Nasal/Sinus Irrigator could replace your Neti Pot if you’re looking for a sinus cleansing with a little more punch. I recently retired my trusty, little Neti Pot and purchased one of the devices which look like a Waterpik for your nose.

The Hydro Pulse sends saline solution through your nasal passages at a rate of 16 snorts per second which is a big step up from the tried and true Neti Pot. The machine was invented in 1976 by Dr. Murray Grossan, a California ear, nose and throat specialist, who also has co-authored a book, “The Sinus Cure.”

I’ve been a long-time advocate and user of a Neti Pot but it in no way compares to a Hydro Pulse which uses pulsatile irrigation to pump water into the nasal passages with a pulsating rhythm. It’s kind of like a power washer for your nose, although I don’t mean to imply it’s painful in anyway because it actually feels great. The result is improved function of the nasal cilia (nose hairs) which, when functioning properly, are your point guards against infection.

The device which has a hefty price tag (about $100) is not for everyone but those who have serious environmental allergies, asthma or chronic sinusitis might consider it a good investment. It was an easy choice for me especially after suffering repeated sinus infections, making numerous visits to the doctor and taking endless rounds of antibiotics.

The Hydro Pulse removes nasal crusts, pus, thick phlegm and bacteria, just like a Neti Pot, but does it at the perfect pressure and rate of pulsation to match the normal rate of the cilia, returning them to proper function. I consider it my best line of defense against developing a sinus infection. But the device also is beneficial for allergy and asthma sufferers who experience less difficulty if cilia are working well.

Using a Hydro Pulse is easy. Just fill up the reservoir with two cups of warm water, add one teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and stir to dissolve thoroughly. Pop the reservoir into place on the machine, and you’re set to begin irrigating. Use about half the contents of the reservoir for each nostril. It takes less than a minute, and you’re done.
Make sure you take good care of your machine by rinsing it completely after each use, and it should serve you well. Go to http://www.hydromedonline.com/ to learn more.