With increasing air pollution and the prevalence of allergic diseases, nasal cleansing has become an essential part of daily health care. Nasal irrigation with saline is widely used as an adjunct treatment for conditions such as allergic rhinitis and chronic sinusitis because it removes allergens, relieves nasal congestion, and reduces pathogen retention. However, when saline bags are unavailable, some people may consider using the salt they always have at home. Can it be used for nasal irrigation?
The Feasibility of Using Salt for Nasal Irrigation
Normal saline (0.9% sodium chloride solution) is the "gold standard" for nasal irrigation. Its osmotic pressure matches that of human body fluids, effectively cleansing without damaging the mucosa. If you choose to mix your own, two key criteria must be met:
Salt Selection: Use non-iodized salt. Iodine can irritate the nasal mucosa, and long-term use of iodized salt for nasal irrigation may cause inflammation or worsen dryness. Regular table salt sold in supermarkets often contains iodide and should be avoided. Non-iodized table salt or specialized nasal rinse salts are alternatives. Water Treatment: Use boiled, then cooled, purified or distilled water. Microorganisms, chlorine, and other chemicals in tap water can contaminate the nasal cavity and even cause infection. For example, rinsing with unsterilized water can rarely lead to fatal infections such as brain-eating amoeba.
Instructions: Add 4.5 grams of non-iodized salt to every 500 milliliters of warm water (approximately 37°C) and stir thoroughly until completely dissolved. This will create a solution similar to normal saline. If you lack precise weighing tools, use a beer bottle cap as a measuring aid: a flat cap of salt weighs approximately 3 grams; add half a cap to 250 milliliters of water.
Scientifically Irrigate the Nasal Cavity
Even with qualified saline, improper irrigating techniques can still cause complications such as choking and otitis media. Here are some key points:
Tool Selection:
Nasal Irrigator: Suitable for home use, it produces a steady stream of water by squeezing the bottle, providing strong cleaning power. Ensure the spout is clean to prevent bacterial growth. Nasal sprays: Portable and easy to use, suitable for children or first-time users, but with less cleaning power, they are more suitable for daily maintenance.
Electric nasal irrigators: Controllable pressure, suitable for sinusitis patients, but more expensive.
Irrigation posture:
Lean forward 45 degrees and tilt your head slightly to one side, allowing the saline solution to enter one nostril and exit the other.
Breathe through your mouth during irrigating to avoid choking; the water flow should be slow and even, avoiding excessive force that may damage the mucosa.
Children should be assisted by an adult to avoid tilting their head back, which may cause saline solution to enter the middle ear.
Frequency control:
Daily maintenance: 1-2 times daily is sufficient. Excessive irrigating may damage the nasal mucosal barrier, leading to dryness or bleeding.
Acute period: During an allergic rhinitis attack, increase the frequency to 3-4 times daily, reducing it after symptoms subside.
Postoperative patients: Adjust the regimen according to your doctor's instructions. Irrigation is usually started 24 hours after surgery and continued for 2-4 weeks to promote mucosal recovery.
Risk Prevention
While saline nasal irrigation is generally safe, the following individuals should exercise caution:
Those with nasal anatomy abnormalities, such as a deviated septum or perforated eardrum, may experience saline entering the middle ear and worsening nasal damage. Therefore, use under the supervision of a doctor.
Those with hypertension should control water pressure during irrigation to avoid discomfort caused by elevated blood pressure.
Pregnant women and children: Pregnant women should consult a doctor before use; children should use a low-flow device and have an adult assist them.
Addressing Abnormalities:
If persistent nosebleeds, ear pain, or dizziness occur after irrigation, stop immediately and seek medical attention to check for nasal injury or otitis media.
If the irrigation solution is too cold (e.g., cold water), it may cause nasal spasms; if it is too hot (e.g., hot water), it may burn the mucous membranes. Ensure the water is close to body temperature.
If the nasal cavity is dry after irrigation, apply petroleum jelly or use a humidifier to maintain moisture.
Alternatives
If you have concerns about mixing your own saline solution or need a more convenient method, consider the following alternatives:
Physiological seawater spray: This spray simulates the isotonic fluid of the nasal mucosa. It requires no mixing and can be sprayed directly into the nasal cavity for cleansing and moisturizing. It is suitable for children, pregnant women, and those traveling.
Professional irrigation at a hospital: For patients with sinusitis or nasal polyps, doctors may recommend high-pressure irrigation at a hospital to thoroughly remove purulent secretions.
Saline irrigation is a safe and effective adjunctive treatment, but it requires the use of qualified saline, standardized procedures, and consideration of individual differences. For the general population, self-irrigation is feasible if the principles of non-iodized salt, purified water, and proper tools and technique are strictly adhered to. However, for special individuals or those with complex conditions, it should be performed under the guidance of a doctor.
