Upper respiratory infection is one of the most common causes of childhood illness and adult discomfort. In fact, the average child has 6 to 12 upper respiratory infections per year. Upper respiratory infection includes any infection in the nose, throat, sinuses, and ears. The most common upper respiratory infection is the common cold.

Upper respiratory infection is caused by viruses and other pollutants in the environment around us. Most upper respiratory infections start in the nose; in fact, more than 90% of infection causing bacteria and irritants enter the body through the nose and thrive in the nasal passages. When viruses and other pollutants enter the nose, the body reacts by sending white blood cells to the lining of the nose and produces mucus to wash away irritants. As we blow our nose to relieve congestion, cough, and swallow phlegm, bacteria are forced into the ears, sinuses and throat and upper respiratory infection is spread.

Upper respiratory infection can be avoided or at least reduced by regularly using a nasal wash (especially true for children). Most of us wouldn't go a day without washing our hands, at least a few times, but do nothing to flush away the harmful bacteria that lead to upper respiratory infection. Saline nasal sprays are an excellent remedy for daily nasal cleansing. Although they moisturize and keep the nose healthy, saline nasal sprays, alone, do little to combat bacterial and viral growth that leads to upper respiratory infection.

Xlear? Nasal Wash is a patented, non-addictive nasal spray designed to aid in the relief and management of sinus infection caused by pollutants, allergens and infections of the nasal passages. Unlike other nasal sprays that can actually aggravate a sinus infection if overused, Xlear Nasal Wash contains only natural ingredients and is non-habit forming. It is the ONLY nasal wash that combines the unique properties of the natural substance, Xylitol, and the health-promoting practice of a saline nasal spray to help wash, hydrate and moisturize the nasal passages. Xylitol is one of bacteria's natural enemies. When certain harmful bacteria enter the body, they attach to the membranes of the nose and throat. Unlike most antibiotics which kill the majority of bacteria and leave the resistant, super bacteria behind, Xlear Nasal Wash merely flushes harmful bacteria away.