Nasal congestion is a common problem in babies and toddlers, especially during the cold season and after an upper respiratory infection (URI).
Most babies will have some nasal congestion during their first year of life, but this problem usually goes away with time. However, if your child has frequent colds and allergies, the problem may persist longer than normal.
To help relieve your child's symptoms, try the following:
- Giving her extra fluids through breast milk or formula
- Wiping her nostrils gently with a warm washcloth or cotton ball dampened with warm water before she eats or sleeps at night
- Giving her decongestants if recommended by your doctor
How can nasal drops be used in babies while they are sleeping?
There are several ways you can give your baby nasal drops while she is sleeping:
- The easiest way is to administer the nasal drops while awake so that she knows what is happening and will not be surprised when the dropper goes into her nose.
- You should also explain to your child that this procedure may be uncomfortable initially but will help her feel better soon.
- Once you have given her some time with the nasal drops, try administering them while she sleeps.
- This technique works best if you have already given some time with the nasal drops before going into your child's room for bedtime or if you wait until she has fallen asleep with no difficulties before trying this method of administration for the first time.
- If your child does not wake up while administering the nose drops, you can probably safely administer them while she sleeps without waking her up.
- If she does wake up, you should stop administering them immediately and try again when you are alone with her.
Hannah Holt
What are nasal drops?
Nasal drops are an easy way to unblock a stuffed nose. It is a simple saline solution and can be bought as an over-the-counter medicine.
Hannah Holt
It can also be prepared at home, but it is best to buy a medicated one to be on the safe side. The regular use of nasal drops helps in reducing swelling of the nasal wall and moisturizes the dry nasal passage making breathing easier.
Nasal drops Dosage for babies
However, there are some important safety rules to follow:
Use the correct dosage. When using nasal drops for babies, always follow the directions on the package or your doctor's instructions. If your baby is younger than 3 months old, use a single drop in each nostril every 4 to 6 hours. After that age, up to 6 months, use two drops in each nostril three times per day. From 6 months onward, use four drops in each nostril three times per day.
In general, giving babies oral antihistamines and nasal decongestants is best so they don't develop a paradoxical reaction (feeling worse instead of better). Ask your doctor about this if needed.
Don't put more than one type of medicine into one nostril at a time — whether it's an oral medication or a nasal spray. Doing so may cause complications such as bleeding inside the nose or sinuses, which could require medical attention.
FAQs:
Q: Is it safe to use nasal drops while sleeping?
A: nasal drops can be used when the baby is asleep. It helps ease the baby while sleeping by relieving him of blocked nose and congestion.
Q: Can nasal drops be used for newborn babies?
A: Nasal drops are completely safe for use in babies because they are free from chemicals, but for newborn babies, it is best to consult a doctor before using nasal drops as newborn babies are very sensitive.
Q: Can the nasal dropper be shared with two babies?
A: Taking care of hygiene while using nasal drops is very crucial. The nasal dropper should not be shared among babies as it can lead to the transfer of germs and can lead to other medical issues.
Conclusion
Nasal drops are a savior for babies suffering from colds, flu, and congestion. They help to reduce inflammation of the nasal walls and soften the muscles and mucus to make a clear passage for the air to flow.
Nasal drops can be used without consultation, but it is best to consult a doctor before their use. Nasal drops can be easily used as many times as needed, but they should not exceed six times a day.
