Hydrogen-rich saline nasal irrigation was found to be more effective in alleviating chronic rhinitis clinical symptoms than saline irrigation, particularly in patients with allergic rhinitis.

A randomized, double-blind clinical experiment sought to investigate the advantages of hydrogen-rich saline (HRS) irrigation as an anti-inflammatory therapy for chronic rhinitis and compare its efficacy to saline irrigation.

Overall, 120 patients (between 18-65 years) with chronic rhinitis were randomized into 2 groups: those who received HR irrigation (HRS group) and those who received saline irrigation as a control (NS group). For the subgroup assessment, 54 candidates were allergen positive, out of which, 29 candidates were given HRS (AR-HRS group) and 25 candidates were given NS (AR-NS group).

The total score of nasal symptoms (TNSS) served as the study's primary observation index. Additionally, levels of nasal nitric oxide, eosinophilic protein, regulatory T cells, and regulatory B cells were examined across the two groups. Based on serum-specific Immunoglobulin E (IgE) positivity, individuals with allergic rhinitis and non-allergic rhinitis were assessed.

Both TNSS and nasal ECP considerably dropped after treatment in both groups, with patients in the HRS group having much lower levels than those in the NS group. Regulatory T cells and regulatory B cells levels did not vary substantially between the two groups. Regarding other inflammatory biomarkers, no considerable differences were noted.

Subgroup evaluation revealed that TNSS in AR-HRS group displayed a more substantial decrease in comparison with AR-NS group. When compared to NS irrigation, eosinophilic protein levels in the non-allergic rhinitis subgroup were considerably lower. Throughout the whole course of therapy, none of the patients experienced any evident side effects.

Owing to its efficacy and safety profile, HRS should be suggested for the management of chronic rhinitis, particularly in allergic rhinitis patients.