Salineor, simply put, salt wateris a versatile combination that is used for a variety of medical purposes.
It can be used internally for intravenous (IV) hydration or externally to clean wounds or piercings.
Saline is also used in the nose to treat congestion.
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Not all saline solutions are created equal, though.
The sections below will review some of the most common uses for saline solutions.
Normal saline is a specific mixture of 0.9 grams of sodium chloride per 100 milliliters of solution.
You should never inject any solution into your body or veins without the direct supervision of a healthcare provider.
be sterile or, at the very least, prepared using specific techniques.
Sea water, for example, has salt concentrations that are too high for people to drink.
Homemade
Homemade saline solution or salt water is fine for some uses.
However, boiled tap water or even filtered water cannot be used for many internal needs.
If you need a sterile saline solution for intravenous use or wound care, store-bought saline solutions are recommended.
How to Use Saline Solution
Normal saline is the most widely used solution in healthcare.
It’s a versatile fluid that can be used internally or externally.
Dehydration, infection, shock, and other conditions may require the use of these fluids.
Garglingwith salt water is probably the best example of this.
If you gargle, you will spit out the salt water when you are done.
If you have a deep orinfectedwound, see a healthcare provider.
Sterile saline solutions may be preferred in this kind of situation.
Making Saline Solutions at Home
You have options when it comes to making saline solutions at home.
The key is to use the cleanest, purest water possible.
Never use a homemade saline solution to rinse or store your contact lenses.
Tap water can contain microbes that can cause a severe infection if it is not boiled or specially filtered.
It’s also important not to deviate from a set recipe when making your saline solution.
Saline solutions with high concentrations of sodium chloride can do more harm than good.
Summary
Saline solution is a versatile liquid that can be used internally and externally.
Talk to a healthcare provider before injecting or ingesting saline solutions.
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