Millions of Canadians suffer from colds each year. On average, an adult will suffer from one to two colds each year. There is no cure for the common cold, only ways of reducing its symptoms (runny nose, cough, nasal congestion and sore throat). The use of saline water to clear out nasal passages is a safe and effective way of relieving cold symptoms. This also applies to sinus infections. Clearing nasal passages relieves nasal congestion and helps get rid of viruses and bacteria.