How do saline nasal sprays work

Related Articles. Look for This Sign. Surprising Relief for Your Stuffy Nose? Have Sex. How to Manage Spring Allergies. Trending Topics. What Parents Need to Know. Share this article via email with one or more people using the form below. Send me expert insights each week in Health Essentials News. Saline nasal sprays usually get into the nose just fine, but because only a small amount of saline is expelled, it may not reach all the way into the sinuses.

This is a drawback of all sinus irrigation methods, but methods that use higher volumes of water may be more effective at rinsing deeper inside the sinus cavities. The American Rhinologic Society points out that when a nasal rinse method delivers more water, it also stands a better chance of penetrating deep into the network of sinuses. Nasal rinsing involves pouring saltwater through one nostril and letting it drain the sinuses and exit the other nostril.

Most people will lean over the sink or rinse in the shower for convenience. Several variations of sinus rinse devices are available without a prescription. The delivery device is something that resembles either a small plastic teapot or a squeezable nasal rinse bottle.

The American Rhinologic Society states that while rinses help to clear the nose of mucus, they may also help to reduce inflammation. This may result from helping the nose to remove small particles, bacteria, and viruses which can cause allergy and inflammation. The AAAAI advises patients that a doctor with specialized training and experience can accurately diagnose conditions and suggest helpful treatments.

They can be used temporarily to relieve short-term congestion symptoms. The inflammation-reducing effect of the spray typically lasts a few hours, after which the mucous membranes begin to swell again.

The recurrence of swelling may become stronger if the decongestant nasal spray is used continuously for more than a few days. Even though these methods seem to have many similarities, it is important to understand the differences. Saline and corticosteroid sprays are not the same thing—even though they come in similar looking bottles. Corticosteroid sprays are medicated, while saline sprays are not.

Nasal rinsing is similar to saline spray, but it rinses the nasal passages with more water than a spray. As such, it may be more effective in clearing mucus, flushing the sinuses, and helping address sinus symptoms.

In others, pharmacies may keep products containing this chemical behind the counter, even though they do not need a prescription. There may also be a limit on how much you can buy each month, and individuals may have to show ID or give personal details when they buy this type of decongestant.

A nasal spray is often the first choice for mild congestion due to allergies and colds. A saline nasal spray is drug-free and is generally safe. Another option is to use a neti pot. These are an effective way to flush mucus and allergens out of the nose.

They warn people to use neti pots with sterilized water and to clean them properly to avoid some rare but dangerous infections. Another option is over-the-counter decongestant and allergy pills. It is important to use these medications as instructed on the label.

People should use decongestant nasal sprays with caution to avoid rebound congestion and damage to the delicate nasal tissue. Nasal sprays are a type of medicine. People should never use them more frequently than the label advises. Excess phelgm and mucus can cause congestion, coughing, and problems breathing.

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Symptoms of chronic nasal congestion are unlikely to be eased through steam inhalation, new research finds, though nasal irrigation may be effective. Is nasal spray addiction a cause for concern?

Medically reviewed by Alana Biggers, M. Saline nasal sprays Steroid nasal sprays Antihistamine nasal sprays Decongestant nasal sprays Alternatives to nasal sprays Takeaway We include products we think are useful for our readers.

Saline nasal sprays. Share on Pinterest Nasal sprays can provide relief from congestion. Steroid nasal sprays. Antihistamine nasal sprays. Share on Pinterest Nasal congestion is a common problem for people with a seasonal allergy.

Decongestant nasal sprays. Alternatives to nasal sprays. Share on Pinterest Neti pots are an alternative to nasal sprays, but remember to use sterile water and clean them well after use. Latest news Could 'cupping' technique boost vaccine delivery? Scientists identify new cause of vascular injury in type 2 diabetes.