Dr. Paul Schalch Lepe, an ENT Specialist at SoCal Breathe Free Burbank, emphasized the importance of deep nasal breathing and using saline to clear the nose after ocean exposure for maintaining healthy respiration. This advice was shared on Instagram.
“Breathing in through your nose, exhaling through your mouth, nice and smooth,” said Paul Schalch Lepe, according to Instagram. “You want that laminar flow, that easy flow of air through your nose. Using a neti pot or a saline spray can always be very helpful. Clearing your nose and your nasal passages after getting to the ocean.”
A study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology explored the dynamics of nasal airflow, highlighting that healthy nasal airflow is primarily laminar, which facilitates efficient air conditioning and filtration. In cases of sinusitis, inflamed or obstructed nasal passages disrupt this smooth flow, impairing mucosal function and worsening symptoms. According to the study, promoting laminar airflow through techniques like controlled nasal breathing may help restore normal sinus drainage and reduce congestion.
Research from Washington University School of Medicine underscores the significant impact of chronic sinusitis, which affects over 30 million adults annually in the United States. The studies from their Department of Otolaryngology show how this condition affects not only physical health—such as causing nasal obstruction and facial pressure—but also quality of life, sleep, and productivity. Their findings support evidence-based treatments that include both medical management and surgical interventions like endoscopic sinus surgery, tailored through validated tools such as the SNOT-22 outcome measure.
A randomized controlled trial published in Contemporary Clinical Trials examined the effects of saline and xylitol nasal irrigation on chronic rhinosinusitis symptoms and fatigue in patients with Gulf War Illness. The study concluded that both saline and xylitol nasal irrigation improved sinus symptoms and fatigue compared to usual care alone. These results suggest that nasal irrigation can be an effective adjunctive therapy for managing chronic rhinosinusitis and associated fatigue.
Dr. Schalch Lepe is a double board-certified otolaryngologist and sleep medicine specialist based in San Diego, California, at SoCal Breathe Free Sinus & Allergy Centers. He is recognized for his expertise in treating sinusitis, nasal obstruction, and sleep-related breathing disorders using minimally invasive techniques performed in-office to maximize patient comfort and recovery. With advanced training from UC Irvine and a medical degree from UNAM (National Autonomous University of Mexico), Schalch Lepe provides multilingual, evidence-based care to patients suffering from chronic ENT conditions.
SoCal Breathe Free Sinus & Allergy Centers is a Southern California-based medical practice with locations including Burbank dedicated to treating chronic sinus, allergy, and sleep-related conditions. The clinic combines advanced diagnostic tools with minimally invasive procedures such as balloon sinuplasty and turbinate reduction performed in-office to provide efficient relief with minimal downtime. Their team of board-certified ENT specialists prioritizes patient-centered care by offering customized treatment plans aimed at helping individuals breathe easier and improve their overall quality of life.