Rhinosinusitis, marked by nasal stuffiness, congestion, postnasal drip, blunted sense of smell and taste, and yellow-green nasal drainage is one of the commonest reasons for patients’ visit to the primary care physicians or specialists.¹ Nasal congestion, the main symptom of this disease causes great discomfort and contributes significantly to absenteeism from school or work. It has been reported to be a substantial source of morbidity, prompting an increase in healthcare costs.^1,2

Increased quantity or viscosity of sinus secretions in rhinosinusitis often overwhelm the clearing capacity of the nose, and, in turn, lead to pooled secretions and secondary bacte¬rial infection. Medical management of this disease involves the use of antibiotics, decongestants, mucolytics, and corticosteroids.¹ Besides, a vast line of scientific evidence suggests the use of saline as an adjunct therapy.^1,3 It helps in promoting ciliary function and reducing edema, thereby improving drainage through sinus ostia. Also, it may aid in eliminating bacteria.¹

In content to this, a study has demonstrated significant improvement in the symptoms of rhinosinusitis with the use of a saline nasal spray.² Furthermore, researchers have stated that isotonic saline is an effective choice that has a favorable tolerability profile with no adverse clinical effects.⁴

References

1. Papsin B, McTavish A. Saline nasal irrigation. Can Fam Physician 2003;49:168-173.
2. Costa LS, Campos AC, Cristina da Silva BT. Isotonic saline nasal irrigation in clinical practice: a literature review. FisioterapiaemMovimento. 2017;30(3):639-649.
3. Hildenbrand T, Weber R, Heubach C, et al. Nasal douching in acute rhinosinusitis. Laryngorhinootologie. 2011 Jun;90(6):346-51.
4. de Mello Júnior JF, de Godoy Mion O, de Andrade NA, et al. Brazilian Academy of Rhinology position paper on topical intranasal therapy. Braz J Otorhinolaryngol. 2013;79(3):391-400.