LENEXA, Kan. -- Outdoor exposure to environmental irritants such as allergens, pollution, debris and cigarette smoke can cause the mucous membranes of the sinuses to swell, leading to pain, pressure and perhaps even infection. Allergy and sinus sufferers are typically advised by doctors to take medication for relief from all their pain and pressure. But recent studies suggest that there is a new treatment for effective sinus relief.

"Leading ear, nose and throat specialists are recognizing the value in nasal irrigation with a saline solution as a safe and natural alternative to antibiotics," says Marc Elton, Director of Scientific and Legal Affairs at B.F. Ascher & Company, a leading manufacturer of over-the-counter saline products. "Since overuse of antibiotics leads to resistance problems, physicians are beginning to recommend nasal irrigation as the first line of defense for allergy and sinus sufferers."

Saltwater nasal irrigation consists of warm water and a pre-measured amount of salt combined inside a squeeze bottle or neti pot. Once the pre-measured salt and warm water solution is mixed inside the squeeze bottle or neti pot, the applicator is pressed into the nostril. The user tilts his head to an angle, squeezes the bottle or tips the neti pot and the saltwater solution enters the nose through one nostril and exits the other, giving it a thorough cleansing. The user then repeats the process in the other nostril.

"Nasal cleanliness is a primary factor in good health," adds Elton. "The nose is one of the body's filters. American physicians and consumers alike are recognizing that a saltwater solution rinse is a naturally safe alternative to medication and an effective way to clear the nasal passages of allergens and other harmful irritants."