Study Finds Saltwater Nose Drops Shorten Children's Colds by Two Days

Research shows saline solution reduces cold duration and spread in children, offering a simple, effective treatment.

Children using saltwater drops had cold symptoms for six days on average, compared to eight days with usual care.
The study involved over 400 children under six, with results presented at the European Respiratory Society Congress.
Saline drops also decreased the likelihood of colds spreading to family members from 61% to 46%.
Parents reported high satisfaction, with 82% noting quicker recovery and 81% planning future use of the drops.
Researchers suggest the drops enhance the respiratory system's ability to fight viruses by boosting hypochlorous acid production.