Can nasal irrigation with edible salt treat rhinitis?

Nasal irrigation with table salt generally does not treat rhinitis.

Rhinitis is a condition typically caused by various factors leading to inflammation of the nasal mucosa or submucosal tissues. It often results in swelling of the nasal mucosa and turbinates, causing symptoms such as increased nasal secretions, runny nose, and nasal congestion. Medical-grade normal saline is commonly used for nasal irrigation to reduce mucosal swelling, relieve nasal blockage, and maintain unobstructed breathing. Table salt, however, is more irritating and often has an inappropriate concentration, which may irritate the nasal mucosa and inferior/middle turbinates, potentially causing nasal pain and therefore is generally unsuitable for treating rhinitis.

It is recommended that patients with rhinitis seek appropriate treatment under the guidance of a physician to avoid self-medication that could lead to physical discomfort.