Nasal congestion in babies

It is normal for first-time mothers not to know how to clear their baby’s nasal congestion, which products to use, for how long... But do not worry! In today’s post we give you tips and recommendations on how to do it.With thearrival of cold weather, nasal congestion in babies is very common. This is the condition that occurs when their nasal passages become blocked, preventing normal airflow to the lungs. The cause of inflammation and nasal discharge is due to different conditions, including allergies to different environmental factors and microorganisms such as mites, or viruses such as flu. The symptoms are throat discomfort, excessive tearing, upper respiratory tract infections, breathing difficulties, pneumonia and sleep disturbances. One of the main methods is washing the nasal passages and the most advisable thing is to do it with natural products such as saline solutions. A suitable time may be after bathing, but when the child is already dry and dressed so they feel more comfortable.

Tips to relieve nasal congestion in babies

• Position the baby on their side and prevent them from moving too much. Preferably place them on their side on the changing table and put a towel under their head and neck. If the baby were on their back, the liquid could drag mucus towards the ear and cause otitis.
• Saline solution. With the child lying on their side, start by introducing the seawater into the nostril that is uppermost. To do this, insert the nozzle into the nostril and gently press the button.

In this way, the liquid will enter through one nostril and come out through the other without passing into the ear or pharynx. Repeat the process afterwards from the opposite side. The nozzles must be washed after each use.

• If the baby has a lot of mucus, washing with serum or seawater may not be enough. In these cases, you can use a nasal aspirator, sucking steadily and gently from the other end.

However, it should only be used when there is visible mucus that cannot be removed without it, as overusing this practice can irritate the nose and encourage congestion and bleeding. In any case, the aspirator should not be used more than once or twice a day.

• Encourage the baby to take more fluids. The mucus will be less thick and the nasal passages will be more humid.
• Slightly incline the cot or bed to keep the head more elevated.
• If the congestion is worse, give steam baths.