Babies can get a stuffy nose due to colds and allergies. However, this process can be extremely difficult for babies who do not know how to blow their nose. So, what to do for nasal congestion in babies and is it possible to prevent nasal congestion in babies? Let’s look at the answers to these questions…
Causes of Nasal Congestion in Infants
To find a solution to a baby’s nasal congestion, it is very important to first address the source of the problem. For this purpose, consult a pediatrician or an otolaryngologist. Find out the cause of the baby’s stuffy nose and, of course, follow the doctor’s advice. So, what are the possible causes of nasal congestionin babies ?
- Allergic reaction
Allergies in babies can occur for various reasons. These allergies can also cause a stuffy nose. You can only find out what the baby is allergic to by tests performed by health professionals and by observing the baby. It is also useful to take a look at our articleon how to recognize allergies in a breastfed baby.
- The common cold
The most prominent symptom of the common cold inboth adults and children and babies is nasal congestion. In this regard, it is also necessary to consult a physician.
- Ambient dry air
Dry air inthe room where the baby sleeps or in the general air in the house can also make it difficult for the baby to breathe. Here again, the doctor’s advice is essential and you can use a steam machine in the room.
- Adenoid problem
The cause of nasal congestion in babies may be adenoids. An ENT specialist should be consulted to find out.
- Possibility of an object in the nostril
Babies can sometimes try to put a small object up their nose when they are doing little mischief. Inserting an object into the nose can cause an immediate and severe crisis, and depending on the texture and size of the object, sometimes it may not even be noticed. However, it can cause persistent discharge, a change in the baby’s voice, a one-sided runny nose and a persistent unpleasant smell similar to halitosis. If you suspect something like this, again, see an ENT specialist immediately.
What to do when babies have a stuffy nose?
When babies have a blocked nose, there can be great panic, especially if the baby is very small. This is because it is difficult to clear the baby’s nose. When babies have a blocked nose, first try to understand the cause. Then it is necessary to apply cold steam in the room, open the nose with salt water, try to keep the baby in an upright position and keep it hydrated. Sometimes ventilating the room before the baby goes to sleep can also help.
What Not to Do in Nasal Congestion in Babies
- You should not wipe the baby’s nose with hard cloths that will irritate it.
- You should not use medication without consulting a physician.
- You should make sure that the baby does not inhale irritating fumes such as cigarette smoke, coal smoke and soot.
If nasal congestion lasts more than 5 days, you should take your baby to the doctor, even if the condition seems mild. If there is unilateral discharge from the nose, you should see a doctor immediately.
If the baby’s temperature rises above 38 degrees Celsius, it is still recommended to take the baby to the nearest health facility.