For a congested nose, you can help your baby by using saline drops or a saline spray in each nostril, followed by clearing out any mucus using a bulb syringe. For a congested chest and nose, you can help by using a cool-mist humidifier in your baby's room.
One of easiest ways to clear a baby's or toddler's nose is to use a saline nasal spray. Nasal spray works by thinning out the mucus, allowing the nose to clear out and ease congestion. If you can't run to the store for saline drops or spray, try mixing one cup of warm, filtered water and a ½ teaspoon of salt.
Usually, newborn stuffy nose goes away on its own within a few days. In babies, nasal congestion or stuffy nose happens when the tissues inside the nose swell. Use salt water nasal drops or an infant nasal aspirator or suction bulb to help clear mucus from your baby's nose.
The best default position for your baby to be in when they have a cold is upright. This helps for congestion to clear and for breathing to become easier. And, most importantly, it helps them get that vital rest they need so much.
Concerning Baby Congestion Symptoms
If your baby is congested and exhibits any of the below symptoms, call your doctor immediately: Your baby is younger than three months old. Your baby isn't having as many wet diapers as usual. Your baby has a temperature of 100 degrees for more than three days.
The best times to suction are before feeding and before bed. This will help your baby breathe easier when they eat and when they sleep. Make sure you don't suction too much and damage their nose.
A parent should never apply Vicks VapoRub to children under 2 years old. For those interested in using a similar product without camphor, Vicks BabyRub is available. Parents and caregivers should use caution and read all instructions before applying Vicks to their children.
Stuffy noses
Babies can only breathe through their noses (not their mouths). So, when your baby's nose is stuffed up with mucus, it's much harder for them to breathe. When this happens, use saline nose drops or spray (available without a prescription) to loosen the mucus.
In adults and children age 2 and older, use it only on the neck and chest.
Try rubbing diluted eucalyptus oil on the chest as a decongestant, or inhale eucalyptus or peppermint oil to clear stuffiness. Adding lavender, cedar, or lemon to steam may also soothe nasal passages. Inhaling menthol not only provides relief from nasal congestion, but might help inhibit infection as well.
Although it might feel like longer, nasal congestion usually lasts around five to 10 days, depending on whether it is caused by a viral or bacterial infection. While decongestants can help to manage your nasal congestion symptoms, it is best to just let nasal congestion run its course.
A phlegmy cough can sometimes be due to post-nasal drip or drainage when children have runny noses. In younger infants, a phlegmy cough could be due to bronchiolitis, a lower tract respiratory infection brought on by viruses like respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
A stuffy nose can make it hard for your baby to breathe. This can make your baby fussy, especially when he/she tries to eat or sleep. Suctioning makes it easier for your baby to breathe and eat. If needed, it is best to suction your baby's nose before a feeding or bedtime.
There's no evidence that putting Vicks VapoRub on your feet will relieve a cold, congestion, or cough. But it might help moisturize your heels and relieve toenail fungus.
Acupresssure Point LI 20: Located at the base of your nose, this pressure point can help relieve sinus pressure. Acupresssure Point SI18: Located where your cheekbones meet your nose, this pressure point can relieve sinus congestion.
Symptoms of a cold in an infant generally start with a low grade fever and nasal congestion. Infants get all plugged up inside and then two to three days later generally start having a lot of post-nasal drip, increasing a cough and causing a runny nose.
Most cases are mild, but for some children, an ordinary cold or flu can quickly turn into respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), asthma or pneumonia that requires ER treatment or hospitalization.
Coughing Fits or Spells - Warm Mist and Fluids:
Give warm clear fluids to drink. Examples are apple juice and lemonade. Age less than 6 months. Only give breast milk or formula.