Saline nasal solution: what it is and what it is used for

A runny nose with a cold or allergy leads to nasal congestion. Air does not pass through one or both canals. A person feels dryness and burning of the tissues. Flushing the nose reduces these unpleasant symptoms. The saline solution cleanses the nasopharynx and promotes mucosal recovery.

What is nasal saline solution for nasal lavage

The composition of different nasal wash preparations differs in some additional components. The basis is always water for injection and sodium chloride. The release form is bottles or sprays.

Saline solutions come in two types of action and each is used for specific tasks. Isotonic or physiological solution contains the same minerals as the fluids in the human body. It helps the nasal mucosa to recover more quickly. From the use of isotonic solution such results:

• Active bactericidal action eliminates pathogens. With a high salt content, the microflora is killed.
• Water-electrolyte balance comes back to normal.
• The inner membrane of the nose is moistened, which is necessary for the restoration of the mucosa and protection against pathogens entering the body.
• Mucus is liquefied and excreted more quickly.
• Tissue cells in the nose are infused with micronutrients from the saline solution.
• Inflammation decreases.

In hypertonic saline solution, the content of trace elements is increased - up to 2.2%. It is used strictly in accordance with the instructions, so as not to dry out the nasal cavity and larynx. The task of the saline solution is to draw water out of the nasal tissues. This gives these results:

• Edema is reduced more quickly.
• Blocked nasal passages open because excess fluid is expelled and tissue swelling is reduced.
• Local blood flow is increased, which speeds up the recovery of mucosal function.
• The secretion of mucus increases, together with which impurities and pathogens are removed from the tissues.

Properties and contraindications

Saline solution for the nose has such properties:

• Relieves swelling.
• Disinfects the nasopharynx.
• Minimizes the spread of pathogens through the nasopharynx.
• Clears nasal passages of accumulated mucus.
• Strengthens capillaries.
• Accelerates healing after surgery.

Saline solution is universal. It is suitable for pregnant women and small children. If you follow the instructions for nasal lavage, the procedure is safe. It is more convenient to use sprays. For prolonged procedures, large bottles of 200-400 ml are suitable. The product is dialed with a special syringe.

However, nasal irrigation with saline solution has contraindications:

• Inflammation of the middle ear.
• Warping of the septum in the nose.
• Acute bilateral otitis media.
• Nasal duct obstruction.
• Polyps present in the sinuses.
• Individual intolerance to the saline solution.

Nasal flushing is carried out at least 30-40 minutes before going outdoors. If liquid remains in the nasal passages, it can lead to hypothermia. In addition, it takes time for the natural mucous membrane, which performs a protective function, to recover.