Allergies affect millions of Americans, according to CNN Health. Allergies come in various forms, such as food allergies, seasonal allergies and insect bite allergies. Sea salt is commonly used to treat any allergic reaction that affects the sinuses. Sea salt is applied using a nasal wash, a nasal spray bottle or as a sinus rinse. If you suffer from sinus allergies, talk with your doctor before using sea salt to treat your condition. An allergic reaction is a serious medical condition that needs to be clinically diagnosed. Do not self-diagnose or self-treat based solely on symptoms.
Allergies
During an allergic reaction, your body doesn't recognize a particular substance as safe, when in reality it is safe. The substance is considered an allergen that can trigger a chemical chain-reaction in your body that can lead to various symptoms, including nasal congestion. Common allergens include: pollen, dust, pet dander, mold, foods, medications and insect bites, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. Most allergic reaction causes sinus complications, such as sneezing, a runny nose, congestion and postnasal drip.
Sea Salt Use
The use of sea salt to cleanse and moisten the sinuses due to allergies is recommended by MayoClinic.com. Purchase a neti pot or saline solution nasal spray bottle. Fill the neti pot with warm water and empty the contents of the sea salt into the pot. While standing over a sink, pour the solution in one nostril, while tilting your head. Gravity will pull the solution throughout the sinus cavity, coming out the other nostril. Gently blow your nose and repeat the process on the other nostril. This will remove excess mucus, irritants and allergens that are caught in the sinuses, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Consideration
The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology states that the most effective treatment for any allergy is to identify the allergen and avoid exposure. If you suffer from seasonal allergies, stay indoors with the windows and doors closed during the spring and summer months. Maintain a clean, allergy-free home by eliminating mold, pet dander and dust. If you're allergic to certain foods or drugs, eliminate them from your diet.
Warning
If you develop burning, crackling in the ears or further irritation after using salt water to treat sinus allergies, call your doctor. You may need to reduce the amount of sea salt you're using in your solution or this may be a sign of a more serious condition.
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