A quick look at the flu map in the United States demonstrates the widespread nature of the virus. Chances are you or someone you know has caught the flu this year. Since 2016, an average of 35 million people have caught the flu virus in the United States each year.
One of the main ways that the flu virus is transmitted is through the air. When a sick person coughs or sneezes, the virus travels through the air and enters the nostrils where it attacks the mucous membranes and spreads. The nostrils are, therefore, often the first line of defense against the flu virus. Keeping the sinuses healthy is an important part of helping the body maintain a strong immune system and ward off viruses and bacteria. Saline nasal sprays are a great way of keeping sinuses healthy during the flu season. Here are 4 reasons why you should use them during the flu season.
Help prevent airborne illnesses
The thin hairs lining the nostrils are called “cilia”. Cilia help protect the body by trapping foreign particles, germs, and viruses from entering the respiratory system. In order for cilia to function properly, they need a certain level of moisture. The cold and dry winter air paired with the often dry air inside homes caused by indoor heating systems poses a significant challenge to the health of cilia. Using a saline nasal spray helps moisturize nasal passages and keep the cilia healthy and functional. Furthermore, using the spray can help flush out viruses, bacteria, and germs that could otherwise cause illness.
Help flush out viruses
The flu is predominantly transmitted through the air and nostrils, using a saline nasal spray helps flush out viruses, bacteria, and pathogens that would otherwise cause illness. Although saline nasal sprays aren’t helpful in treating the flu once it has taken hold, they can potentially help prevent the virus from taking root in the sinuses.
Relieve congestion
Congestion is no fun and congestion resulting from the flu is notoriously uncomfortable. Congestion happens when the body produces an excess amount of mucus in an effort to fight off viruses and bacteria. Using a saline nasal spray helps thin out and move mucus which helps relieve congestion, sinus pressure, and pain. Saline nasal sprays are a great alternative to the often dangerous and habit-forming decongestant nasal sprays.
Support sinus health
The health of our sinuses is directly related to their level of moisture. Besides supporting optimal cilia functions, using a saline nasal spray to support proper moisture in sinuses also helps improve the health of the mucous membranes which provide the first line of immune system defense for airborne illnesses. Furthermore, properly irrigated sinuses also help prevent cold-induced rhinorrhea (CIR) or skier’s nose caused by the cold and dry air outdoors.
Conclusion
Saline nasal sprays are a great wellness support product to stock, especially during the flu season. Saline sprays help keep the nostrils and sinuses healthy by supporting proper moisture in the nasal passages critical for optimal sinus functions, they are also very effective for relieving congestion and provide a safe alternative to decongestant nasal sprays.