A blocked nose occurs when an infection or allergy causes the blood vessels in the nasal cavity to swell and for excessive fluid or mucus to be produced. This gives rise to a ‘stuffy feeling’.⁶

The sinuses and entire nasal cavity are lined with a thick layer of tissue called the nasal mucosa (also known as the mucocilliary layer or apparatus). This mucous membrane is responsible for transporting mucus. It provides an important defence mechanism against inhaled organisms and pollutants.^3,4,5

OTC medicines, such as decongestants, may help relieve a blocked nose and can make breathing more comfortable. These medicines help to narrow the blood vessels in the lining of the nose and in this way help to relieve nasal stuffiness.⁶

Decongestant nasal sprays and drops work quickly as they are applied directly to the nasal tissue that is affected. However, they should not be used for more than 3 days as they can make congestion worse.

Drixine® Nasal Spray contains the decongestant oxymetazoline which works fast and has an effect which lasts for up to 12 hours.^7,8

Saline is salt water and is thought to work by improving the function of the nasal mucosa or mucociliary apparatus.9 Saline sprays can be used to relieve blocked noses, clear excess mucus from the nose and improve breathing.¹¹

Saline sprays are mainly available in 2 forms, namely isotonic and hypertonic solutions.¹⁰

The Isotonic solutions have the same salt concentration as the cells that line the nasal cavity whereas hypertonic solutions have a higher salt concentration.¹⁰

A Natural Solution for easy breathing, Drixine® PureSea Nasal Sprays improve nasal breathing and have many benefits. They are non-medicated, don’t contain preservatives or synthetic additives and can be used by pregnant and breast feeding women. They are also simple to use.