Saline Nasal irrigation involves flooding the nasal cavity with warm saline solution (salt water). The goal of nasal irrigation is to clear out excess mucus and particulates and moisturize the nasal cavity. Either a fluid-filled syringe or bulb can be used. The practice has been subjected to clinical testing and has been found to be safe and beneficial, with no apparent side effects
Saline rinses help to prevent the crusting of secretions in the nasal passages, which may otherwise block the sinuses from draining. If the sinus drainage sites become blocked, which could also occur with swelling from allergies or irritants, a sinus infection may develop. Saline rinses also serve to reduce tissue swelling in the nasal passages, and improve the clearance of mucus.
It can be used by patients with chronic sinusitis, allergic rhinitis and after nsasal surgery.
For those who suffer from chronic sinusitis nasal irrigation is a quick and inexpensive way to promote mucociliary function and mucus turnover, decrease edema, and improve drainage through the sinus ostia.
