Most of us have heard of, or are familiar with, saline. It is what is often set up via IV to hospital patients. It is one of the first things that happens to anyone admitted to the hospital, especially for an injury or other emergency. Saline is a common but often misunderstood aspect of our healthcare. We are so used to seeing it and hearing about it on our hospital shows, but what is it, exactly?
What is Saline?
You might be surprised to know that you can actually make a saline solution right at home. This is because, at its core, it is a very simple solution:
- Purified Water
- Sodium Chloride (0.85 – 0.9)
You might be confused as to why salt is in the solution. The simple answer is that our bodies are not naturally inclined to absorb and process the water that we drink. We need minerals, particularly sodium, to absorb the water and stay hydrated. Without sodium we will just pass the water through. It is for this reason that someone in the desert with enough to drink can still die from dehydration. Saline solutions are therefore designed to hydrate patients as effectively as possible.
You can make saline right at home with a teaspoon of salt and 8 oz. of water. This solution can even be used to disinfect wounds, but you will need to dissolve the salt in boiling water first to sterilize the solution. This type of homemade saline is not recommended for eye care, as contact lens solution has additional buffers for your comfort.
What is Saline Used For?
Saline is used for a variety of different purposes.
Hydration
Its primary focus is hydration. If you have the flu, for example, chances are you are quickly becoming dehydrated. Every sneeze, cough and trip to the bathroom is dehydrating you. If you aren’t careful, even drinking water won’t hydrate your body properly.
The best way to avoid this problem is with Reset IV flu recovery, which will hydrate your body with saline and provide a super dose of vitamin C. Alongside other essential vitamins and nutrients, and a few flu-fighting boosters, you can beat your bug in no time.
Sterilization
The second reason to use a saline solution is to sterilize wounds from a new ear piercing or to disinfect wounds at the hospital. Saline solution, for example, will be used on a wound after taking an IV out to ensure that infection does not occur.
Clear Congestion
Saline solutions are a great, natural way to clear congestion fast.
Treat Eye Dryness
Though putting salt in your eyes is one of the worst ideas, a saline solution can actually help with eye dryness. It is still recommended that you buy specially designed eye drops instead as they contain additional buffers to make your eye more comfortable, rather than a simple homemade saline solution.
Delivering Vitamins and Boosters
Finally, the last way saline is used is as a delivery method for vitamins, minerals, and other boosters. It is a great way to absorb these essential boosters intravenously, as it also helps you stay hydrated and better absorb the vitamins in question.
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