How safe is using a shared water bottle for a neti pot?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have a bad sinus problem. So, I use a neti pot. Yesterday, my boyfriend was drinking out of a water bottle and I used it for my neti pot because I ran out of the water, unopened bottles. Am I in any type of danger?

Thank you very much for your time and support.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Not to worry much, although there is a risk of upper respiratory tract infection with such water usage. But, the body usually takes care of it, and even if you develop an infection, then it is manageable. So do not worry about it.

I hope this information was helpful.

We appreciate your comments and use them to make patient care better.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

No, nothing to worry about it. It entirely depends on our body's immune system. Our protective barriers prevent such transmission. There are numerous viruses present in the air, and on our hands, which put one at risk similar to what you were exposed to, but our body prevents it.

Even if some virus enters, it is killed by the immune system. The same risk is there with drinking water as well, as nasal and oral pathways are nearby. So, you should not worry about all this. Usually, nothing adverse happens.

I hope this information was helpful.

We appreciate your comments and use them to make patient care better.

Thank you.