Uses for a Saline Solution

Saline solution has many uses. It is used by medical professionals as it is a natural and safe substance. Saline solution is composed of water and salt or sodium chloride. Because the ingredients are inexpensive and readily available, saline solution is used to treat a variety of conditions.

Nasal Irrigation

• If you suffer from the cold and flu, reach for saline solution to treat dry and parched nasal passages. Saline solution moisturizes these tissues. It rinses away irritants from the nose to provide relief. Relieve your cold and flu symptoms using gentle saline solution. Before using saline solution, blow your nose gently. With head tilted back allow the saline solution to drop into your nose. Remain in this position for roughly two minutes to allow the solution to begin working.

Contact Lens Care

• Use saline solution in the care of your contact lenses. Rinse the lenses in the sterile solution. Saline gently cleanses the contact lenses from other types of contact lens solutions, such as enzymatic and disinfecting solutions. Safely store your lenses in a contact lens case filled with saline solution. Heat disinfection methods utilize saline solution to kill germs and microbial agents on the lenses.

Wound Care

• Medical professionals often utilize saline solution in wound care. Saline solution is more desirable because unlike antiseptics, saline solution does not inhibit healing. Irrigation is a process where wounds are rinsed using a cleansing solution such as saline solution. This rinses away draining fluids from wounds and helps speed healing.

IV Solutions

• Saline solution is also used as an intravenous solution. Medical personnel administer saline to treat dehydrated patients. It provides water and electrolytes. The solution should be avoided in patients with pulmonary edema or serious high blood pressure.