What is nasal saline irrigation and how can it help with colds?

Nasal saline irrigation is a process of bathing the nasal cavity in a saltwater solution, which can help flush out viruses, restore natural nasal defenses, and reduce the duration of cold symptoms by up to 4 days.

What are the long-term benefits of using nasal saline irrigation?

In addition to treating acute viral infections, nasal saline irrigation has also proven effective in managing chronic conditions like allergic rhinitis, chronic congestion, and recurrent sinus infections. Regular use can enable a significant reduction in the need for allergy medications.

Home / Health / Nasal Saline Irrigation: The Surprising Weapon Against Colds

Nasal Saline Irrigation: The Surprising Weapon Against Colds

Q: How does nasal saline irrigation compare to over-the-counter cold medications?

Unlike most over-the-counter cold medications, nasal saline irrigation has been shown in studies to be a highly effective, low-cost solution for fighting the common cold. It can shorten illness duration and prevent the spread of viruses without the need for prescription drugs.

17 Nov

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Summary

Nasal saline irrigation can reduce cold duration by up to 4 days
It helps flush out viruses and restore natural nasal defenses
Reduces need for unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions

Nasal Saline Irrigation: The Surprising Weapon Against Colds

As the cold and flu season approaches, a surprising ancient practice is gaining attention as a highly effective, low-cost solution for fighting the common cold. Nasal saline irrigation, a process of bathing the nasal cavity in a saltwater solution, has been shown to significantly reduce the duration of cold symptoms.

According to a study published in The Lancet in 2024, initiating nasal saline irrigation at the first sign of cold symptoms and performing it up to six times per day can shorten the illness by approximately two days. Some smaller studies have even reported a reduction of up to four days.

Beyond just shortening the duration of illness, nasal saline irrigation also helps prevent the spread of viruses. A study on hospitalized Covid-19 patients found that performing the technique every four hours decreased the viral load by nearly 9%, while the control group's viral load continued to increase.