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A blocked nose is one of the most common reasons people visit a pharmacy once colds start going round. A saline nasal spray is a simple first step: it is salt water, usually sterile, that rinses mucus and keeps the inside of the nose moist. If you are looking for a saline nasal spray in the UAE, you will find small sprays, larger "jet" sprays, single-use vials and full nasal wash kits.
Saline does not kill viruses or cure a cold. It can make breathing through the nose more comfortable while your body recovers, and it is gentle enough for most ages when used as the pack describes.
In the UAE, colds and flu rise from autumn onwards. The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) runs its national flu awareness campaign from September to March, so now is a good time to have the basics at home.
What a saline nasal spray does, and what the evidence says
Saline loosens thick mucus and helps wash away dust. Air conditioning can leave the nose dry, and a rinse can feel soothing.
A Cochrane review of saline washing for colds and similar infections found that it possibly helps relieve symptoms. The trials were small and of low quality, so the evidence is limited. In the largest trial, children who used saline needed fewer decongestant sprays. The only side effects reported were mild stinging or irritation in a minority of people.
So think of saline as a comfort measure and a sensible blocked nose remedy, not a cure.
Sprays, drops, jets and nasal washes: which to choose
| Type | What it is | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Small spray or drops | Fine mist or drops from a 15-20 ml bottle | Daily use, carrying in a bag, dry noses |
| Saline nose drops and single-use vials | Small sterile doses | Babies and young children; nothing to contaminate |
| Jet or pressurised spray | Larger can with a stronger flow | Rinsing thicker mucus in adults and children |
| Nasal wash kit | Bottle you fill with a salt sachet and water | A larger-volume rinse for adults |
A sea water nasal spray uses salt from purified sea water. "Isotonic" sprays match the body's saltiness; "hypertonic" ones are saltier and may sting more. Ask the pharmacist which suits you.
Apisal nasal spray is one popular saline brand, and BMG stocks several sizes, including baby versions.
How to use a spray or nasal wash kit safely
For a spray (adults and older children):
- Blow your nose gently first.
- Tilt your head slightly forward, not back.
- Place the nozzle just inside the nostril, pointing towards the outer side, away from the middle of the nose.
- Spray, then breathe in gently. Repeat on the other side.
- Wipe the nozzle and replace the cap. Do not share the bottle.
For a nasal wash kit (nasal irrigation):
- Lean over a sink, head tilted to one side, mouth open.
- Squeeze the solution gently into the upper nostril and let it drain out of the other side.
- Blow your nose gently afterwards.
- Clean and dry the bottle after every use.
Use safe water. If your kit asks you to mix a sachet with water, follow the instructions about which water to use, such as sterile, distilled, or boiled and cooled water. Never use water straight from the tap. A WHO background document on drinking water explains that one rare but very serious amoeba infection happens when contaminated water goes up the nose, not when it is swallowed. A salt water nasal rinse is safe when it is made the right way.
Using a nasal spray for baby and young children
Babies breathe mainly through the nose, so a blocked nose can upset feeding and sleep. Choose a nasal spray for baby or drops made for that age, and follow the pack for the age range.
- Lay your baby on their side or with the head turned, so the saline drains out rather than back.
- Put the drops or gentle spray into the nostril, then wipe away the mucus.
- A soft nasal aspirator can help remove loosened mucus. Clean it after each use.
- Do this before feeds and sleep, when it helps most.
Never use adult decongestant sprays on babies or children unless a doctor or pharmacist has told you to.
Saline vs decongestant sprays
Decongestant sprays work quickly but are for short-term use only, usually a few days; longer use can make the nose feel more blocked. Saline can be used more often. Ask the pharmacist before using a decongestant, especially if you have high blood pressure, are pregnant or are buying for a child.
Products to consider at BMG Pharmacy
- Apisal Nasal Spray 15ml: a small saline nasal spray for everyday use.
- Apisal Jet Adult & Children Spray 125ml: a larger saline jet spray for adults and children.
- Apisal Jet Baby Nasal Spray 125ml: a saline spray made for babies.
- Apisal Singles 5ml Amp 30s: single-use saline vials.
- Apisal Sparkling Nasal Spray 50ml: a nasal spray from the Apisal range.
- Otosan Nasal Wash Kit: a nasal wash kit for rinsing the nose.
- Euphorbium Nasal Spray 20 Ml: a plant-based nasal spray; ask the pharmacist whether it suits you.
- Impressmed Nasal Patch For Nasal Congestion Strips 10s: adhesive nasal strips worn on the outside of the nose.
You can see the full range in our sinus and nasal care category.
When to see a doctor or pharmacist
See a doctor if:
- A baby under three months has a blocked nose with a fever, or is not feeding well.
- Anyone has difficulty breathing, fast breathing or the skin between the ribs pulls in.
- There is a high fever, severe facial pain or swelling around the eyes.
- Symptoms last more than 10 days or get better and then worse again.
- There is a nosebleed that will not stop, or a clear watery discharge after a head injury.
- You are in a higher-risk group (pregnant, over 65, or living with a long-term condition) and develop flu symptoms. WHO says these groups may need treatment early.
Ask a pharmacist before using any spray if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or before giving any product to a child.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a saline nasal spray every day?
Plain saline sprays are generally gentle enough for regular use; follow the label. If you need one daily for weeks, ask a pharmacist or doctor about the cause.
Is saline spray safe for newborns?
Saline drops or sprays made for babies are commonly used for newborns with a blocked nose. Use a product labelled for that age and follow the pack. If your newborn has a fever or is struggling to feed or breathe, see a doctor straight away.
What is the difference between a nasal spray and a nasal wash?
A spray delivers a small mist and suits quick, frequent use. A nasal wash uses a larger amount of salt water to rinse the nose more thoroughly. Washes take a little more practice and need careful cleaning and safe water.
Does saline spray help with sinus pressure?
Saline may ease congestion by thinning mucus, which some people find helps with a blocked or stuffy feeling. The evidence is limited. Severe facial pain, high fever or symptoms that last beyond 10 days need a doctor.
This guide is general information, not medical advice. Speak to a BMG pharmacist in any branch or on WhatsApp +971 55 520 8156, or call 800 2647.
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