The recent pandemic has created a broader awareness about the issues that threaten our respiratory health. The fact that microorganisms can enter the body through nasal and oral passages, causing various respiratory tract infections, has made people mindful of their daily health regime. One such habit that has gained momentum is saline nasal washing.
What is saline nasal washing, and why is it beneficial?
Nasal washing is the process of rinsing your nasal passage with a saline or salt-water solution. It helps wash out mucus, allergens, and other debris from the nasal passage and moistens the mucous membrane. Also, regular saline nasal washing may reduce the occurrence of different kinds of infections, including sinus infections and allergies.
Some people do nasal washing using squeeze bottles, bulb syringes, or a neti pot device. But getting the technique right requires practice and might seem complicated initially. Instead, you can use a nasal wash spray like Otrivin Breathe Clean which is made of preservative-free isotonic sea salt solution and natural glycerine. Nasal wash spray can clear and moisturise the insides of your nose and remove dust, pollen, allergens from the nasal passage, also it can help improve your daily nasal functioning and soothe the nasal passages.
How to Do Saline Nasal Washing?
While you might be convinced about the benefits of saline nasal washing, the thought of inserting a device inside your nose and letting water run up the nasal passage might make you feel uneasy. But, don’t let this fear keep you from trying out a technique that can act as a preventative measure to keep nasal passages healthy. Besides, with increasing air pollution, daily saline nasal washing helps wash out pollutants from the nose.
Since the nasal passage acts as a pathway to the lungs, cleaning it can prevent viruses and allergens from entering the lungs. Therefore, saline nasal washing is an effective way to deal with nasal congestion.
Here are some instructions for easy nasal washing:
- Blow your nose, insert the nozzle of the nasal spray inside your nostril, tilt at an angle and spray briefly
- Take a deep breath
- Do the same for the other nostril
- Wash the nozzle with warm water after use and close it
You can do nasal washing two to three times a day. However, it is advisable to consult an expert if you have an allergy or sinus condition. Additionally, if you experience any pain or discomfort during the process, stop and report it to a doctor. But note that saline nasal washing as a daily hygiene practice may keep respiratory infections at bay and cleans the nasal passage.
Disclaimer:
This article is sponsored by GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare (“Company”) for sharing information in the public interest. GSK does not approve or recommend the use of medicine in any way other than what is approved. Thus, should not be considered as a substitute for medical advice. Please consult a health care practitioner for more details.
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