Understanding Rhinovirus and How Dry Salt Therapy Can Help
This special guest blog post from Halotherapy Solutions, the supplier of Very Well’s astoundingly relaxing and luxurious Infrared Sauna + Salt Therapy Room, discusses the potential benefits of Salt Therapy on fall and winter colds.
As the seasons change, so does the prevalence of common colds, coughs and flus, such as rhinovirus. We’ve all experienced the discomfort of a runny nose, scratchy throat, and that persistent feeling of fatigue that accompanies a cold. For businesses and wellness centers focused on improving health outcomes, it’s essential to explore innovative and effective ways to help clients combat these seasonal challenges. One such method is Dry Salt Therapy, also known as Halotherapy.
What is Rhinovirus?
Rhinovirus is the most common viral infectious agent in humans and the predominant cause of the common cold. It’s highly contagious and can spread quickly through airborne droplets, direct contact with infected individuals, or touching surfaces contaminated with the virus. Once the virus enters the body, it typically affects the upper respiratory tract, leading to symptoms like sneezing, coughing, congestion, sore throat, and headaches.
How Does Halotherapy Help?
Dry Salt Therapy, or Halotherapy, involves inhaling micro-sized salt particles dispersed into the air of a controlled environment, like a salt room. The salt used is 99.9% pure pharmaceutical-grade sodium chloride, free from any additives or chemicals.
When you breathe in these salt particles, they travel deep into your respiratory system. Here’s how Halotherapy can play a role in mitigating the effects of rhinovirus:
Clearing Mucus: The inhaled salt particles help to thin and break up mucus in the airways. This makes it easier to expel mucus from the body, reducing congestion and clearing the respiratory passages. A clear airway is essential for preventing secondary infections and easing the overall discomfort associated with colds.
Reducing Inflammation: Rhinovirus often leads to inflamed airways, which contributes to symptoms like a sore throat and nasal congestion. The anti-inflammatory properties of dry salt can soothe inflamed tissues, providing relief and speeding up the recovery process.
Antibacterial and Antiviral Properties: Salt is naturally antibacterial and can create an environment that’s less hospitable to pathogens.
Improving Respiratory Function: Regular Halotherapy sessions can help improve overall lung function, making the respiratory system more efficient at expelling irritants and pathogens.
Supporting the Immune System: A well-functioning respiratory system supports the immune system’s ability to fight off infections. By keeping the airways clear and reducing inflammation, Halotherapy aids the body’s natural defenses, helping clients stay healthier during peak cold seasons.