What are the benefits of saline gargles (sodium chloride solution)?

From the Guidelines

Saline gargles are a low-cost intervention with minimal potential harm and may be beneficial in reducing upper respiratory tract infections, particularly for individuals who are more susceptible to these infections and can tolerate the intervention 1. To prepare a saline gargle, mix 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of table salt in 8 ounces (about 240 ml) of warm water until dissolved.

Key Points to Consider:

• Gargle with this solution for 30 seconds, tilting your head back to allow the mixture to reach the back of your throat, then spit it out.
• Repeat this process 3-4 times daily, especially after meals and before bedtime, until symptoms improve.
• The salt water works by drawing excess fluid from inflamed tissues through osmosis, reducing swelling and loosening mucus.
• Additionally, the slightly alkaline nature of the solution creates an environment less favorable for bacteria to thrive.
• Saline gargles are particularly useful for viral sore throats, mild bacterial pharyngitis, and post-nasal drip irritation.
• If your sore throat persists beyond 5-7 days, is accompanied by high fever, or causes difficulty breathing or swallowing, seek medical attention as these may indicate a more serious condition requiring prescription treatment.

Important Considerations:

• The evidence suggests that saline gargles may be beneficial, but the data is limited, and further research is required to ascertain the optimal dosing for prophylaxis and the associated risks of these interventions 1.
• Individuals who are more susceptible to upper respiratory tract infections and can tolerate nasal saline irrigation and/or gargling may derive greater benefit from these interventions 1.
• It is essential to consider the potential risks of nasal washing and gargling, such as Eustachian tube dysfunction symptoms and throat irritation, and weigh them against the potential benefits 1.

From the Research

Saline Gargles for Sore Throat

• There is no direct evidence in the provided studies regarding the effectiveness of saline gargles for sore throat.
• However, the studies discuss various treatments for pharyngitis, including antibiotics and symptomatic relief medications 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
• The studies suggest that most cases of acute pharyngitis are self-limiting and do not require antibiotic treatment 3, 5, 6.
• Some studies recommend the use of clinical scoring systems to assess the risk of bacterial pharyngitis and guide antibiotic treatment 5, 6.
• Penicillin and amoxicillin are commonly recommended as the first-line antibiotic treatment for bacterial pharyngitis 4, 5, 6.

Alternative Treatments

• Non-pharmacological self-management, such as rest and hydration, may be recommended for symptomatic relief 5.
• Ibuprofen and naproxen are recommended for symptomatic treatment of sore throat 5.
• There is no mention of saline gargles as a recommended treatment for sore throat in the provided studies.

Limitations

• The provided studies do not address the effectiveness of saline gargles for sore throat.
• The studies focus on the diagnosis and treatment of bacterial pharyngitis, rather than symptomatic relief treatments like saline gargles 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.