Researchers Uncover A Simple Solution To Reduce A Child's Cold

As cold and flu season approaches, consider keeping a bottle of hypertonic saline nasal drops handy to help protect your kids from infections. A recent study by researchers from ELVIS-Kids in Edinburgh, United Kingdom, a research organization focused on effective viral interventions for children, found that saltwater nasal drops can reduce the duration of a child’s cold by up to two days.

The study involved 407 children aged 6 and under, who were either given hypertonic saline (about 2.6% salt-water) nasal drops or standard care when they developed a cold. Out of the participants, 301 children contracted a cold; for 150 of these, parents were instructed on how to make and apply saltwater nose drops (three drops per nostril, at least four times a day, until recovery). The remaining 151 children received the usual cold care.

Results showed that fewer households using the saltwater drops reported additional family members catching a cold (46% compared to 61% for usual care). Furthermore, 82% of parents reported that the nasal drops helped their child recover more quickly, and 81% expressed a willingness to use the drops again in the future.

 

 

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Dr. Sandeep Ramalingam, Chief Investigator of ELVIS-Kids and a consultant virologist at NHS Lothian in Edinburgh, emphasized that saltwater solutions have long been utilized in South Asia for nasal irrigation and gargling as a remedy for colds. He aimed to investigate whether these potential benefits could be validated in a larger study. Dr. Ramalingam highlighted that colds significantly affect children aged 10 to 12 and their families. While there are medications available to alleviate symptoms, such as paracetamol and ibuprofen, no treatments currently exist that can expedite recovery from a cold. However, saltwater nasal drops could be a game-changer for families seeking to recover from the common cold more quickly.

“We found that children using saltwater nose drops had cold symptoms for an average of six days whereas those with usual care had symptoms for eight days. The children receiving saltwater nose drops also needed fewer medicines during their illness,” the professors shared. He mentioned that the solution’s unique combination of sodium and chloride could be the key healing components in saltwater nasal drops.

 

“Salt is made up of sodium and chloride. Chloride is used by the cells lining the nose and windpipes to produce hypochlorous acid within cells, which they use to defend against virus infection. By giving extra chloride to the lining cells this helps the cells produce more hypochlorous acid, which helps suppress viral replication, reducing the length of the virus infection, and therefore the duration of symptoms.”

Some researchers pointed out that saltwater nasal drops can be a cost-effective option for keeping children safe during the cold and flu season, especially since many over-the-counter medications can be expensive. According to ELVIS-Kids, you can easily create an effective nasal drop solution by mixing one teaspoon of sea salt with boiled water, filling a glass jar halfway, and shaking it well. Be sure to note the time and date, and make a fresh batch every 24 hours for optimal effectiveness.

 

 

Here are some other ways to keep the kids safe from the cold and flu this winter.

To keep your kids safe from colds this winter, start by encouraging frequent hand washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after being in public or before meals. Boost their immunity by ensuring they eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, focusing on foods high in vitamins C and D. Staying hydrated is also important, so encourage them to drink plenty of fluids, particularly water. Establishing a consistent bedtime routine can help ensure they get adequate sleep, which is crucial for a strong immune system.

Limit close contact with sick individuals and teach good etiquette, such as covering their mouths when coughing or sneezing. Regularly disinfect commonly touched surfaces at home, like doorknobs, light switches, and toys, to reduce germ exposure. Make sure your kids are dressed warmly to prevent chills and encourage outdoor play and physical activity to boost their immune systems when weather permits. Additionally, remind them to avoid touching their faces, particularly their eyes, nose, and mouth, to minimize the risk of germs entering their bodies.

Lastly, stay informed about local health alerts about cold and flu activity to be aware of any increased risks in your area. Implementing these tips can create a healthier environment for your kids during the colder months.

 

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