Nasal congestion follows children like a dark cloud, always hovering, and often makes them fussy and miserable. As a parent, this can be very hard to go through. Many times, it is difficult to know the cause of the congestion. Kids are still developing their immune systems so can catch many colds and other respiratory bugs. We like to refer to this as “daycare-it is.” On top of that, for kids under 4, there are very few medicines that can be used safely.

What causes nasal congestion?

Blood vessels and tissue in the nasal cavity and surrounding tissues become engorged with too much fluid. This makes it hard for them to breathe, sleep, and even feed. Congestion can be from viral or bacterial infections, allergies, or rarely, something more serious. Congestion can also sometimes lead to sinusitis, so it is always good to monitor and reach out to your pediatrician if things seem to be getting worse.

What should you look out for?

The color of their nasal discharge can be clear or yellow or green and these ALL could be bacterial or viral. In cases where it is a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be required. If your child’s symptoms are worsening or not getting better, contact your pediatrician. Though, don’t be surprised if they tell you to keep waiting and be patient! We do this more often than not. This period, although very stressful and difficult, is when your child’s immune system is learning how to work and building up to be strong later in life. Too many medications or antibiotics can be more detrimental than beneficial.

What can you do to help? We’ll call it “SSSHing” your baby!

1. Steam: Let your shower run and get the bathroom steamy and take your baby into the shower. Hold then in this steamy room for a few minutes to have the steam open up their nasal passages. This is good to do before bedtime so they can fall asleep easily.

2. Saline: Saline comes in drops and sprays. For drops, place 2 drops in each nostril and follow it up with immediate suction. Use ONLY saline solution, not any that contain added medicine.

3. Suction: Do this right after using saline. Remember to squeeze the suction bulb BEFORE you place it your baby’s nose to suck out the saline plus mucus. This way you won’t inject air into the nose. Squeeze out the mucus collected onto a tissue and repeat till you have gotten what you can. Wash/dry the suction bulb after using to keep it clean. A good time to do this is 15 minutes before feeds and before bedtime.

4. Humidifier: A cool mist humidifier can be placed in your baby’s room when they sleep to help. (Note, avoid hot water since this can cause accidental burns).

Try these things to help with your child’s congestion. Be patient in this period and remember that things will get better as your child develops a more robust immune system. As always, follow us @thepedipals, tune into our podcast, and let us know how we’re doing! Here’s to happy, healthy, and well-balanced children!

Your PediPals