The importance of keeping our airways moisturized and flushed. [View all]

Airway moisturizing and cleansing:

1. Because household humidity is typically lower than desirable in the winter, I like to use the bottles of inexpensive nasal saline spray to moisten my sinuses and nasal cavities. This assists our system to expel dust, germs and viruses by thinning the mucus. Those things saved my butt many times during my days of busy air travel where the air is extremely dry.

2. Periodic use of a netti pot or rubber syringe to irrigate our sinuses and nasal cavities can rid our mucus system of infectious germs and irritants. I use a baby ear syringe and a homemade saline solution recommended by my ENT specialist.

3. Deep breathing during a hot shower can help us clear thickened mucus from our bronchial system and lungs. We also use just a pot of steamy water on the stove, or a Vicks brand personal vaporizer ($30 at drugstores) that works really well.

Note that these are the methods I've used for many years and may or may not work for you. If in doubt, consult an ENT doctor.

(cross-posted to GD)

KY.........