Khaberni - An expert revealed that eliminating cold and flu viruses from the sinuses might help recover more quickly, based on study results that demonstrated a quick recovery method.
Nasal washing with saline solution helps ease congestion and remove viruses.
In the study referenced by Canadian doctor Brandon Lou, patients were divided into two groups: the first underwent traditional cold treatments, which might include rest and over-the-counter medications, and the second underwent nasal washing, which involves rinsing the nasal passages with a saline solution to help remove mucus.
According to "Daily Mail", nasal washing at home aims to help alleviate congestion caused by colds, flu, or other sinus infections.
Researchers conducting the study found that nasal washing might eliminate the viruses themselves and significantly reduce the duration of an individual's cold and flu symptoms.
Reduce illness by two days
The study showed that participants who used a 3% saline nasal wash reduced their illness duration by an average of two days.
This means a 22% reduction in illness duration compared to those who used traditional treatments.
Those who used the nasal wash also reduced their consumption of over-the-counter medications by 36% and decreased the virus transmission to other family members by 35%.
Additionally, symptoms such as congestion, sneezing, and coughing lasted up to 3 days less for those who used the nasal wash.
The wash removes virus particles
It is believed that the nasal wash removes virus particles before they can cause a deeper infection. Additionally, the chloride ions in the saline water may activate the body's native immune response against viruses by increasing the production of hypochlorous acid, a natural antimicrobial compound.
The renewed interest in this study comes in the context of the outbreak of the new and severe H3N2 flu strain, subtype K, in the United States.
