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Nasal irrigation with saline solution relieves pediatric acute upper respiratory tract infections, offering a safe, antibiotic-free alternative.
Upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) are a frequent headache for parents, often leaving children with congestion, runny noses, and discomfort. While antipyretics and decongestants are commonly used, and antibiotics are sometimes prescribed despite most URTIs being viral, an age-old remedy—saline nasal irrigation—is gaining attention as a potential game-changer. But does it really work?
A recent systematic review by Márcia Cruz et al. aimed to assess the scientific backing for saline nasal irrigation in reducing symptom severity in pediatric URTIs. Renowned databases—PubMed, Cochrane, Medline, and Scopus for randomized trials published between January 2010 and May 2024 were rifled, using MeSH terms related to pediatric URTIs and nasal saline therapies. Only 4 studies met the strict inclusion criteria, all gauging whether saline irrigation, with or without additional treatments, improves symptoms in the pediatric population.
As per some studies, saline nasal rinse not only alleviated symptoms but also contributed to faster recovery. Based on the analysis, this intervention may support lessening the severity of URTI symptoms in children, earning a level of evidence 2 and a recommendation strength of B according to the Strength of Recommendation Taxonomy (SORT). While these findings are promising, additional high-quality research is required to ensure the full potential of saline nasal irrigation as a go-to remedy for pediatric URTIs.
Could this simple, drug-free approach be the key to easing cold symptoms in children? The evidence suggests it might be worth a try.
Cureus
Nasal Irrigation With Saline Solution for Pediatric Acute Upper Respiratory Infections: A Systematic Review
Márcia Cruz et al.
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