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Importance of nasal hygiene

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eMediNexus    11 March 2021

The nose exerts several functions, mainly respiration and olfaction. It serves as the first door for the entry of oxygen, and various pathogens such as bacteria, virus, fungi, allergens, cigarette smoke, and pollutants. It performs its actions by warming, moistening, and filtering the inspired air. The last function of the nose is guaranteed by an effective mechanism, the muco-ciliary clearance.1 
 
Evidence indicates that a dirty nose may lead to a vicious cycle that promotes, maintains, and amplifies the respiratory infections and other inflammatory diseases. As impaired nasal function can compromise the quality of life significantly, maintaining a clean and healthy nose is of paramount importance.1 For this purpose, isotonic saline is one of the most commonly used preparations.2 The researchers have shown that administration of nasal saline by different ways like spray can help in improving mucociliary clearance by removing encrusted material and moisturizing the nasal cavity.1,3 However, it is noteworthy that only sterile solutions should be used as improper home-made solutions may cause infections.1
 
References
  1. Ciprandi G, Gelardi M. Open and clean: the healthy nose. Acta Biomed. 2019;90(2-S):4-6.
  2. Principi N, Esposito S. Nasal Irrigation: An Imprecisely Defined Medical Procedure. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2017;14(5):516. 
  3. Papsin B, McTavish A. Saline nasal irrigation: Its role as an adjunct treatment. Can Fam Physician. 2003;49:168-173.

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