Saline Nasal Spray

One of the most common medical problems that affect almost every one of us is sinus infection. And when this infection sets in, the main symptom is stuffy or runny nose. Apart from these, the patient might also experience a reduced sense of taste and smell, may have aching in jaw and teeth, and cough that worsens at night. Most of the time, it may become difficult for the patient to breathe through his nose, and this might cause sleep disorders. So one of the simplest and effective methods to improve these symptoms of stuffiness and congestion is to make use of saline nasal spray. This product works by providing moisture to the nasal passages that remain dry, especially during cold. This lessens the inflammation of mucous membranes, and treats the sinus infection.

Recipe for Saline Nasal Spray

• Ingredients that you need consist of iodine-less salt, baking soda, distilled water, in proportion of 1/4 tsp., 1/4 tsp., and 1 cup respectively.
• Put the water on heat and make it warm.
• Pour the water in a cup, and add the salt and baking soda.
• Stir properly to dissolve the ingredients.
• Let the solution cool down, after which you can pour it in a clean nasal spray bottle. Do not shake the bottle, as it may produce bubbles.

How to Use It

• Pour the solution in a neti pot, and lower your head over a sink.
• Now tilt your head towards your left, so that you can place the mouth of the neti pot into your right nostril.
• Now pour the water, and keep breathing through your mouth. The solution will drain from the left nostril.
• Thereafter, blow your nose gently, and repeat the procedure with the other nostril.

Simple isn't it? However, if you still think this method to be a bit difficult, then you can use a nasal pump bottle. Simply put the bottle in one nostril and press on the pump, to squirt the saline solution. Repeat with the other one. Wait for sometime, before you blow your nose. Alternatively, take the solution in one hand, and sniff it gently through one nostril. Let it stay for a minute and half, then gently blow your nose. It is advisable to make a fresh solution every time you go for the irrigation process.

Despite such benefits, the saline nasal spray must not be used frequently. This is because it may become habit-forming. Also with repeated use, the spray starts becoming less effective, thus, causing the user to use it more and more, only making the situation worse.

Saline nasal spray is one cost-effective natural treatment method for dealing with the symptoms of sinus infections. However, as I have mentioned, using it too often may cause addiction, which may worsen the condition, instead of treating it. So use it only when your symptoms become intolerable.