The MIST (Medical vs Interventional Steroid for Sleep-Disordered Breathing) and MIST+ studies, conducted by researchers at the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute (MCRI) and Monash University in Australia, investigated simple saline (salt water) nasal sprays as a first-line treatment for children with obstructive sleep-disordered breathing. Key Findings
Surgery-Sparing Solution: The trials found that nearly one in three (29.5%) children aged 3–12 improved with a saline spray alone, with their snoring and breathing symptoms completely resolving.
Saline vs Steroids: The MIST studies discovered that a simple 0.9% saline nasal spray was just as effective as an anti-inflammatory steroid nasal spray in reducing symptoms.
Reduced Need for Surgery: After 12 weeks of use, symptoms had resolved in half (50%) of the study cohort, potentially halving the number of children needing tonsil or adenoid removal surgery.
Safe for Daily Use: Saline sprays and rinses are a safe, low-cost, and non-pharmacological treatment.
Water Safety: If you or your child are preparing your own saline rinses at home (using a Neti pot or squeeze bottle), always use distilled, sterile, or previously boiled and cooled tap water to prevent dangerous infections.
How They WorkSaline nasal sprays and rinses alleviate nasal congestion by mechanically flushing out allergens, irritants, and excess mucus. They also help to reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and improve the function of the respiratory mucosa. Safety & Recommendations
Dr Mahony's Australian Tour, where he is speaking to patrents, teachers, allied health professionals and doctors, on how to recognise early sign of sleep disorders in children, as well as how and when to intervene https://www.derekmahony.com/events
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