I’ve talked about the astronaut helmet device pioneered by Seventh Heaven.

To be honest, when the inventor first approached us, we were skeptical.  No, we weren’t skeptical.  We thought he was a kook about to tarnish our reputation.

But, we tried his device.  And, while his initial device did not match the claims he made, after our improvements (to the device, his marketing, and the aesthetics), we realized he had a great little (ok, almost big) device.

I recall wearing the helmet for an hour or so.  I donned it when I went to mow my lawn, and continued as I walked along the brook that was in my back yard.   And, yes,my breathing was not interrupted with allergies, asthma attacks, or bouts of sneezing for most of the rest of the day.

Not a bad price to pay (for someone who had been taking daily allergy shots for years), for a day of relative calm.

But, breathing filtered air for an hour provides limited results compared to those that are being reported by those who use these nasal irrigation devices being sold. Neti pots, squeeze bottles, battery powered units- they all seem to meet the standard.  Denying our allergies the ability to stuff our noses so we can’t breath freely.

Scientific studies have shown that there is little difference if the solution comes out of the opposing nostril or the same nostril.  The key point is that the solution cleanses our nostrils (which houses the filtration system for our respiratory system) effectively.   And, a slew of studies (and a review of them) indicate that saline irrigation is probably the most effective non-pharmaceutical technique for allergies and rhinitis.  Albeit, temporary.

Moreover, the use of the saline solution ensures that our nostrils remain moist- which means irritation is minimized.   That’s true whether one uses the premade packets (containing the proper proportions of baking soda [sodium bicarbonate, of course!] and salt)- or makes the concoction oneself.  (I am a strong believer that using the sterilized solution minimizes one’s chances of introducing microbes [protozoa or bacteria] into our respiratory system.  The FDA agrees.)

(NOTE:  If you experience nasal irritation, the odds are the solution is too hot [or cold] or you have too much salt in your solution.  Adjust and improve your preparation!)

The entire irrigation system needs to be cleaned with soap and water between uses- and it should be stored dry.  (Use the instructions that came with the device- if it did- on how to clean.  Some units have vagaries that may make proper cleaning more difficult.)

Enjoy your breathing!