A study suggests that gargling with salt water may reduce the risk of hospitalization in COVID-19 patients.
US hospitals have reduced rates of on-site infections.
A recent study suggests that gargling with salt water may reduce the risk of hospitalization in COVID-19 patients. The study, led by Dr. Sebastian Espinoza and Dr. Jimmy Espinoza, involved 58 participants who tested positive for COVID-19. They were instructed to gargle with either a high or low dose of salt in warm water for two weeks. The results indicated that those who followed this regimen were up to three times less likely to be hospitalized compared to those who did not. Specifically, 19% and 21% of those who gargled the low and high-salt doses respectively were hospitalized, significantly lower than the 59% hospitalization rate of patients who didn't gargle. However, it's important to note that these findings are preliminary and require further research. The treatment is not meant to replace vaccinations or antiviral drugs.
In other health news, a survey indicates that 96% of caregivers feel drained, highlighting the emotional toll caregiving can take. Additionally, US hospitals have reportedly reduced rates of on-site infections, a positive development in patient safety. Lastly, an interview discussing the current state of Alzheimer's care has brought attention to the ongoing issues in this area of healthcare.
The study involved 58 people who gargled with low or high doses of salt in warm water for two weeks after testing positive for COVID-19.
The study's lead author, Dr. Sebastian Espinoza, stated that there were no significant differences in the primary or secondary outcomes of the study between the high and low salt groups.
The findings are due to be presented at the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) annual scientific meeting in Anaheim, California.
The study, led by Dr. Jimmy Espinoza at the University of Texas Health, involved 58 people with COVID-19 who were instructed to gargle salt water at either a high or low dose of salt.
The results showed that 19% and 21% of those who gargled the low and high-salt doses respectively were hospitalized, significantly lower than the 59% hospitalization rate of patients who didn't gargle.
The findings are preliminary and require further research. The treatment is not meant to replace vaccinations or antiviral drugs.