Recent research has unveiled a second type of deadly amoeba associated with the use of neti pots and nasal/sinus rinsing.
The Big Picture: Dr. Puja Uppal, Family Medicine, “Tap water may contain low levels of organisms that are harmless when ingested but can pose serious risks if used for nasal irrigation.”
Doctor’s Expert Insights about Neti pot Use and Allergies in Georgia
Know this: “Look, using neti pots in an unsafe manner can be dangerous. Simple as that. From burns to your nasal passages to infections–there are significant risks involved if they’re used incorrectly. Many people don’t use sterile or distilled water. Research continues to show that the use of non-sterile water for nasal irrigation can lead to severe infections, especially in individuals with compromised immune systems.
Next steps: If you have seasonal allergies, taking an antihistamine and talking to your healthcare provider is the ideal thing to do before you start using neti pots.” Dr. Puja Uppal, Family Medicine.
Health News Today: Neti pot use can lead to infections and burns.
Key Findings for you in for in Georgia
Findings from the Study:
Nasal rinsing and Acanthamoeba infections: The study describes 10 patients with nonkeratitis Acanthamoeba, a rare infection who reported performing nasal rinsing before getting sick. This suggests a potential link between nasal rinsing practices and the development of Acanthamoeba infections.
Long-term sinus problems might make it worse: Seven of the people in the study had long-term sinus problems, which might have made it easier for them to get the Acanthamoeba infection and for the infection to spread to other parts of their bodies.
Using tap water for nasal rinsing is risky: At least four people said they used regular tap water to rinse their noses. Using tap water that hasn’t been boiled for nasal rinsing can be…
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