Neti pot, redux
So, I've continued using the neti pot, and it's been a big help. I've now gotten past the squick factor, and I've gotten better at using the thing, so it's actually less vile. I've also managed to get rid of the momentary panic that happens when I get water up my nose, and have learned to just breathe. Now using the neti pot actually feels very good and very soothing and relaxing.
Man, if someone had told me a while back that I would start looking forward to pouring salt water up my nose as one of my daily relaxation and health activities, I would have thought they were nuts.