Saline for nasal congestion: what to know

Saline is a salt-water solution that can soften dried mucus and wash away some irritants from the nasal passages. It does not treat every cause of congestion. A common cold, allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, house dust mite allergy or another nasal problem may need a different plan. Congestion that is worse at night can also disturb breathing and sleep.

Follow the product instructions for a spray or rinse. For a rinse, use sterile, distilled or previously boiled and cooled water as directed, and clean and dry the device after use. Keep the nozzle or bottle from touching the inside of the nose. A brief stinging or an increase in drainage can occur. Ask a pharmacist or clinician before adding medicines to a rinse.

Arrange an assessment when blockage persists, repeatedly returns, affects sleep or comes with facial pain, fever, nosebleeds or reduced sense of smell. Seek urgent help for severe breathing difficulty, swelling around the eyes, confusion or a rapidly worsening illness. Saline may relieve congestion while the cause is investigated, but it should not delay care.

Ask whether your pattern suggests allergy, a cold, sinusitis or sleep-related obstruction, and whether allergy medication or another treatment would help. Show the product you are using if irritation continues.