Health · Medical Research · 5 hrs ago
Nasal saline irrigation may shorten cold symptoms by about two days
Nasal saline irrigation may shorten common cold symptoms by flushing the nasal passages with saltwater.
The practice involves using a spray bottle or a vessel such as a neti pot, and has roots in India's Ayurvedic tradition.
Saltwater can flush out mucus, viruses and other particles, while also helping the nose's natural cleaning system work.
A 2024 study in The Lancet involving more than 11,000 people found that starting irrigation at the first sign of symptoms and doing it up to six times a day reduced illness by about two days.
Smaller studies have reported reductions of up to four days.
The practice may also reduce viral spread and antibiotic use, though the text does not give details of those findings.
The article says saline irrigation is inexpensive and does not require a prescription.
Nasal saline irrigation may shorten cold symptoms by about two days, according to a study of more than 11,000 people published in The Lancet in 2024.
The study found that irrigation started at the first sign of symptoms and performed up to six times per day reduced the duration of symptomatic illness.
Smaller studies have reported reductions of up to four days.
The practice flushes mucus, viruses and other particles from the nasal passages and may support the nose’s natural defenses.
Nasal saline irrigation can be done with a spray bottle or a neti pot.
- Who
- People with common colds. The study involved more than 11,000 people.
- What
- Nasal saline irrigation may reduce the duration of cold symptoms by about two days.
- When
- The study found a benefit when irrigation began at the first sign of symptoms and was performed up to six times per day.
- Where
- In the nasal cavity, using a saltwater solution.
- Why
- It flushes mucus, viruses and other particles from the nasal passages and may help the nose’s natural defenses work effectively.
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- Study size
- More than 11,000 people
- Study publication
- The Lancet, 2024
- Symptom reduction
- Approximately two days
- Irrigation frequency
- Up to six times per day
- Smaller-study findings
- Reductions of up to four days