Why is it important to take care of your nose every day?
Nasal care refers to all the practices that help keep the nasal passages clean, moisturized, and functioning properly. As an organ that filters, humidifies, and regulates the temperature of inhaled air, the nose serves as the body’s first line of defense against pathogens and allergens. Regular care prevents infections, reduces allergy symptoms, and improves breathing quality. Nasal care products are available in the store’s nasal hygiene and ENT sections.
- Benefits of regular nasal hygiene: removal of allergens (pollen, dust mites) before they trigger a reaction — reduced viral and bacterial load on the mucous membrane — prevention of sinusitis and recurrent ENT infections — improved nighttime breathing and sleep quality
- Priority situations: winter (frequent viral infections) — pollen season (allergies) — polluted or dusty environments — chronic nasal dryness — post-ENT surgery (sinus surgery) — in infants before feedings
What products and practices ensure effective nasal care?
- Isotonic saline spray (seawater at 9 g/L): daily basic care — cleans without irritating — moisturizes the nasal lining — safe for use from birth (gentle infant spray) — 2 to 3 times a day for maintenance, 3 to 4 times a day during an infection — see comprehensivenasal hygiene and nasal irrigation
- Hypertonic spray (> 9 g/L): decongestant via osmotic effect — thins thick mucus — to be used as a short-term treatment (5 to 7 days) during infections or severe nasal congestion — contraindicated in infants under 2 months of age
- Nasal moisturizing gel: containing dexpanthenol (vitamin B5), hyaluronic acid, or petroleum jelly — apply to the entrance of the nostrils — essential for irritated and sensitized noses — post-surgical sinus care
- Eucalyptus steam inhalation: decongestant and mucolytic — water at 42–45 °C, 2 to 3 drops of diluted essential oil — 10 minutes, twice daily — contraindicated for children under 7 years of age
- Honey in herbal tea: soothes the nasopharyngeal mucous membranes—relieves irritation associated with postnasal drip—contraindicated for infants under 1 year of age
What precautions and risks should be avoided when treating the nose?
- Vasoconstrictor decongestant sprays: never use for more than 3 to 5 consecutive days (medication-induced rhinitis — rebound congestion) — contraindicated for children under 15 years of age — not intended as long-term nasal care but as occasional symptomatic treatment
- Neti pots and nasal irrigation devices: Always use cooled boiled water or sterile distilled water (never untreated tap water—risk of infection)—clean and dry the device thoroughly after each use
- Cotton swabs: not recommended for use inside the nasal passages (they push mucus deeper and cause irritation)—however, they are useful for gently cleaning the outer nostrils
- Risks of improper care: use of non-sterile tools (introduction of bacteria) — excessive use of hypertonic solutions (mucosal drying) — dependence on vasoconstrictor sprays
- Consult a doctor or ENT specialist if: severe or chronic congestion — purulent discharge — frequent bleeding — intense facial pain — persistent difficulty breathing
