Saline sinus rinse: A non-medicated alternative for nasal congestion

Millions of people wake up every day wondering what to do about a stuffy, congested nose. Whether it is because of seasonal allergies, dust mites, a dirty furnace filter, or even the common cold, our sinuses can become congested with dry, crusted mucus. The result is aggravating, and blocked-up passages can inhibit breathing and contribute to bad breath.

Fortunately, there are a number of ways to deal with nasal congestion, from doctor-prescribed oral decongestants to over-the-counter (OTC) 12-hour medicated nasal sprays, to alternative therapies with a myriad of herbal combinations. While these options have potential benefits, they often have side effects and restrictions for use.

There is a non-medicated option that can be used as often as needed, is safe for all ages, and may be used in conjunction with other medications. Commercially prepared saline nasal spray offers people with congested nasal passages a convenient, drug-free alternative to help increase mucociliary clearance by moisturizing the nasal passages and removing encrusted material. A peer-reviewed study published in Canada in 2003* confirmed that clinical evidence is mounting that saline irrigation is simple to use, well tolerated, and inexpensive. This study, like others, involved flushing of the nasal cavity with a saline solution.

OCEAN Complete® is a commercially prepared saline nasal product designed specifically for nasal irrigation. The contents of OCEAN Complete® are made to be sterile and pharmaceutical grade. And as reported in medical journals, its unique salt blend (Ringer's solution) is more effective than saline alone in clearing mucus from nasal passages. 1-5

This product can be used every day and as often as needed. It is non-habit forming, drug free, preservative free, and nonaddicting. For more information on saline sinus irrigation, please consult your physician.

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*Papsin, B, MD, and McTavish, A, MSC: Saline nasal irrigation: Its role as an adjunct treatment, Canadian Family Physician, volume 49: February 2003. (Study did not evaluate any OCEAN® Saline Nasal Spray product.)

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Unal M, et al. J Laryngol Otol. 2001;115(10):796-7. 2.Boek WM, et al. Laryngoscope. 1999;109(3):396-9. 3. Unal M, et al. J Laryngol Otol. 2002;116(7):536-8. 4. Adam P, et al. Arch Fam Med. 1998;7(1):39-43. 5. Baranuik JN, et al. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 1999;160(2):655-62.

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