Unfortunately, our babies are born into this world to breathe an air that is highly polluted. Since babies have immunity for at least 5 years and are vaccinated, they are easily prone to catching colds. The slightest change in weather or place and they fall ill with a congested nose, red eyes, aggravated allergic rhinitis or itchy eyes. With rising pollution levels, it is not going to reduce any time soon. The need of the hour is to become aware of what causes nasal congestion in babies and how we can deal with it.
What is Nasal Congestion?
Nasal congestion also known as stuffy nose or blocked nose is a simple yet very uncomfortable condition that makes babies restless and cranky. This is usually a short-term condition but can last longer if accompanied by other symptoms or depending on the underlying infection.
What causes nasal congestion?
Following are some of the causes of nasal congestion in babies:
Common Cold
It is an infection of the throat or upper respiratory tract that can occur due to any reason such as a change in weather or a cold virus.
Allergies
It is a reaction of the baby’s immune system to a foreign substance such as pollen, food ingredients, etc. The immune system refuses to tolerate the foreign substances and results such as a runny nose and teary eyes.
Dry Air
Humidity or lack of humidity in the air can cause the air to become dry resulting in dry nasal passages and throat. This results in nasal congestion and itching in the throat.
Sinusitis
This is the inflammation of sinusitis that leads to thick mucous discharge and causes nasal congestion.
Structural Abnormalities
Structural abnormalities of the nose such as deviated nasal septum, large inferior turbinate, nasal polyps, etc. can cause nasal congestion.
Enlarged adenoid glands or tonsils
Nasal sinuses can lead to tonsils and this can get into a recurring mode of occurrence resulting in nasal congestion.
Can nasal congestion lead to other health issues?
Nasal congestion is often a cause for other related symptoms such as
1. headache and eye pain
2. breathing problem
3. snore
4. ear ache
5. loss of appetite
6. Tiredness
7. lethargy
If nasal congestion is a symptom of an underlying infection that goes untreated it can result in illnesses such as pneumonia and serious respiratory tract infections.
How to soothe your baby’s stuffy nose?
Simple nasal congestion congestion, which occurs due to the reasons listed above, can be handled with some quick remedies such as:
1. 1-2 drops of eucalyptus oil on the pillow cover or baby’s outfit can help the baby breathe better
2. Liquid saline drops are recommended for infants. It helps to open clogged nasal passages and helps in breathing more easily.
3. Cough and cold medicines are prescribed by doctors in worse scenarios
Using a nasal aspirator or bulb syringe helps remove mucus from the baby’s nose.
4. Using a humidifier or cool mist in the room can maintain moisture in the air and prevent dryness.
5. Older children can be steamed by keeping them in their lap
6. Warm water bath or steam bath also helps in reducing stiffness
7. Putting the baby to sleep in a slightly inclined position also helps in better breathing
Keeping the baby flat will increase discomfort. Keeping the baby upright helps.
8. Avoiding known allergens helps prevent colds
9. Give fluids to older children (over 6 months of age). Babies who are breastfed should be given smaller feeds as a congested nose makes it difficult for them to suckle.
Congestion in a child’s nose should never be ignored. It is always advisable to consult a pediatrician to rule out any major underlying issues, especially if the occurrence occurs frequently. Many of these cold symptoms are caused by ear infections that require antibiotics as treatment. Children younger than 3 years have low immunity and are more prone to infection. By the time children turn 5, they have better immunity and are in good health. Until then, make sure they eat healthy and are on schedule for their vaccinations.