FDA: Improper use of Neti Pots Can Cause Brain-eating Amoebas

Crystal Isaac

Wednesday, February 15, 2017
Flu season is still here, and chances are you or someone you know might be dealing with a stuffy nose. For many people, Neti Pots are a go-to item for much needed sinus relief. The nasal irrigation systems use saline — or saltwater — to treat congested sinuses caused by colds and allergies.

However, pouring water up your nose isn’t always safe, and according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it can even be deadly in some rare cases.

That potential risk caused the FDA to update their guidelines for using Neti Pots.

Very rarely, water from the sink can contain Naegleria fowleri, a type of brain-eating amoebas. Stomach acid usually kills any bacteria or organisms you drink, but your nasal passages don’t offer the same protection. “Once the ameba enters the nose, it travels to the brain where it causes PAM, which is usually fatal,” the CDC explained.

Here are the updated guidelines to lower your risk of becoming infected, according to the CDC:

Boil: Use water that has been previously boiled for one minute and left to cool. At elevations above 6,500 feet, boil for three minutes.

Filter: Use a filter designed to remove some water-loving germs. The label may read “NSF 53” or “NSF 58.” Filter labels that read “absolute pore size of 1 micron or smaller” are also effective.

Buy: Use water with a label specifying that it contains distilled or sterile water.

Disinfect: Learn how to disinfect your water to ensure it is safe from Naegleria. Chlorine bleach used at the right level and time will work as a disinfectant against this germ.

There have only been two cases linked to nasal rinse devices, however the FDA updated its guidelines to protect people against brain-eating amoebas and other types of infections.

The FDA also shared tips on how to safely use nasal irrigation systems:

Continued at:  http://abc13.com/health/using-a-neti-pot-wrong-can-cause-deadly-infections/1757034/