Doctors at the Mayo Clinic report that saline nasal sprays are a good choice for combating a stuffy nose and congestion. Viral infections that cause the cold symptoms cannot be treated with antibiotics and usually run their course, report doctors at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). While patients are healing, saline nasal sprays, which are made of water and salt, can help relieve the symptoms of the common cold, sinusitis and other sinus infections.
Symptom Relief
Nasal saline sprays relieve the symptoms of sinus congestion and play other roles that can help spur healing. Doctors at My Optimum Health report that the saltwater solutions can wash out bacteria, allergens and irritants. Allergy triggers such as dust and pollen also can be rinsed from the nasal cavities with saline sprays. Mucus can become dry and stick to the inside of the nostrils. Saline nasal sprays can help to moisturize and loosen the dried crusty pieces so they can be removed.
No Side Effects
Saline nasal sprays do not carry the same possible side effects that often accompany nasal decongestants. Mayo Clinic doctors report that decongestants that come in nasal spray applications can cause a rebound effect that causes the congestion to actually worsen. Saline is non-irritating and most are safe to use even for children.
Effective
Saline nasal sprays are an inexpensive and effective treatment for nasal congestion, sinus headaches and forehead pain and pressure, report researchers at the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP). Doctors at the AAFP report that daily use of nasal sprays with a 2 percent saline solution is effective for treating patients with chronic sinusitis. Patients often need less prescription medication after using saline nasal sprays.
Easy To Use
Saline nasal sprays are easy to use, report doctors at the AAFP. After blowing the nose to rid it of excess mucus, patients gently shake the spray to prime the pump. Holding one nostril, patients can squeeze the bottle to shoot the saline solution up into the nasal cavity and repeat in the other nostril. Patients need only breathe in slowly as the solution is sprayed into the nose. Saline nasal sprays can be used anywhere with little or no mess when used correctly.
