Saline solution and sinusitis treatment are related because the solution cleans up debris and unwanted mucus occupying the sinuses and nose, reducing inflammation and helping in restoring the drainage. The sinus irrigation with the solution is especially effective in chronic and sub-acute sinusitis cases. The solution is easily available or can be prepared at home. The saline is simple to use and has barely any side effects. You can choose from three different saline solutions to irrigate the nose and sinuses.

The word “hyper” means “more than normal” or “above / over.” Technically, the osmotic pressure of the hypertonic solution is higher than that within the cells of the region being irrigated. The hypertonic saline solution contains a high amount of salt. The amount of salt is higher than the amount of the salt in human body. However, the pH of both the patient’s body and the solution should match to avoid sharp temporary pain in the nose.

The high amount of salt in the hypertonic solution helps in draining the fluid from the swollen membranes, so that the membranes shrink to the normal size. As a result, the airflow in the nose becomes normal and the channels connecting to the nose open. The high salt content may also improve functioning of the cell. The hypertonic saline, a solvent, removes the debris, including crusts of the mucus from the nose.

The solution is used for hay fever or allergic rhinitis and recurrent sinusitis. The solution helps in reducing the nasal membrane swelling, restoring the sinus drainage and enabling easy breathing. Irrigate the nose with buffered hypertonic saline prior to using a nasal steroid to enhance its effectiveness. Initially, the buffered hypertonic saline may cause a burning sensation in several patients. However, they adapt slowly.

The word “hypo” means “less than normal” or “below / under”. Technically, the osmotic pressure of the hypotonic solution is lower than that within the cells of the area being washed. Hypotonic saline contains lower amount of salt than that in human body. Generally, hypotonic solution is avoided.

The word “iso” means “equal.” Technically, the osmotic pressure of the isotonic solution is equal to that within the cells of the region being irrigated. The salt amount in the isotonic saline is equal to that in human body. The solution, also referred to as normal saline, can be used daily, as the body accepts it easily. The chances of inflammation due to isotonic are least.  Isotonic saline rarely injures the mucosa cilia. A few studies found out that isotonic saline facilitate mucociliary clearance in patients having acute sinusitis.