Potion or Poison? Nasal saline for chronic rhinosinusitis

Abstract

SUMMARY MESSAGE: There is evidence to support nasal saline flushing for symptom management in chronic rhinosinusitis and in the treatment setting, as an adjunct to intranasal steroid therapy. Although relatively well tolerated, minor side effects are common and relate to the local effect of the saline, including burning, irritation, nose bleeds, and headache. There is a commercially available preparation that delivers a high volume rinse. Studies suggest significant effort is involved in preparing and delivering solutions and that excessive drainage subsequent to administration can occur. According to a Cochrane review, the beneficial effect of saline appears to outweigh these drawbacks for the majority of patients.