What Does Saline Do?

Saline has many uses in medicine. It's used to clean wounds, clear sinuses, and treat dehydration. It can be applied topically or used intravenously. Saline solution is available at your local pharmacy, but it can also be made at home.

What does saline do to the body?

By injection into a vein it is used to treat dehydration such as from gastroenteritis and diabetic ketoacidosis. Large amounts may result in fluid overload, swelling, acidosis, and high blood sodium. In those with long-standing low blood sodium, excessive use may result in osmotic demyelination syndrome.

What does saline do for the nose?

A saline nasal wash helps flush pollen, dust, and other debris from your nasal passages. It also helps remove excess mucus (snot) and adds moisture. Your nasal passages are open spaces behind your nose. Air passes through your nasal passages before entering your lungs.