Saline Nasal Spray: HSA Eligibility

Under IRC 213(d)(1), "medical care includes amounts paid for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease, or for the purpose of affecting any structure or function of the body." This includes medical equipment and devices.

What is saline nasal spray?

Saline nasal spray is an Over-the-Counter (OTC) medical product designed to irrigate, hydrate and cleanse the nasal passages using saline solution (salt water).

There are three primary types of nasal sprays that could provide some relief for cold sufferers, including decongestants, salt-water (saline) solutions and steroid nasal sprays. Decongestant sprays fight nasal congestion by narrowing blood vessels in the lining of the nose, which provides relief from inflammation and shrinks swollen tissues. Saltwater solutions do not contain any medication, but can be helpful in loosening mucous in the nasal passages so it can be expelled normally. Finally, steroid nasal sprays are available as OTC or prescription products and reduce swelling and mucous buildup in the nasal passageways, and they are extremely effective in treating allergic rhinitis, sinus infection and common cold symptoms (WebMD).

How do saline nasal sprays work?

Saline nasal sprays work by spraying a gentle mist of salt water through a one-way nozzle that remains sterile inside the bottle. They are designed to be used in conjunction with other cold medications but can also be used alone. The spray should be applied and then allowed to run out of the nasal passages, bringing external debris and dust along with it. Saline nasal sprays should be used above a sink and with running water available for rinsing and cleanup afterwards.