What saline solution should be used to rinse the nose for rhinitis?
Dec 07, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xu Gang
Introduction
Patients with rhinitis can use normal saline or slightly diluted saline to rinse their noses. Normal saline should be maintained at a certain concentration and usually requires dilution; a 0.9% saline solution is sufficient for nasal irrigation. Frequent rinsing is not recommended. Rinsing the nasal cavity with diluted saline can help remove nasal secretions and helps cleanse and moisturize the nasal mucosa.
Nasal irrigation with normal saline or slightly diluted salt water can be used by patients with rhinitis.
1. Normal saline: Iodized table salt used for cooking should generally not be used, as it may easily irritate the nasal mucosa. Proper saline solution must be prepared at an appropriate concentration—typically 0.9% saline is suitable for nasal rinsing. Nasal irrigation can effectively relieve symptoms such as nasal congestion, but frequent washing is not recommended.
2. Slightly diluted salt water: Patients suffering from chronic rhinitis, atrophic rhinitis, sinusitis, or other conditions often experience dryness in the nasal cavity, along with dry nasal crusts and sticky or purulent secretions. In these cases, rinsing with slightly diluted salt water helps remove nasal secretions, providing cleansing and moisturizing effects on the nasal mucosa. Under a doctor's guidance, this method can be combined with nasal sprays or drops such as furacilin-ephedrine solution or ephedrine hydrochloride solution to effectively alleviate discomfort.
It is advisable to wear a mask when going outdoors to protect the nasal passages. Avoid excessive nose picking, drink plenty of warm water to help soften nasal secretions, and apply warm compresses to both sides of the nose to relieve runny nose symptoms. Regularly open windows for ventilation to maintain indoor air circulation, and take care to stay warm and avoid catching a cold.
