Nasal congestion is common among newborns and toddlers. Unlike adults, babies mostly
breathe through their noses and are not yet fully capable of breathing through their mouths.
While nasal congestion is usually not a medical issue, seeing a newborn or a toddler have a
stuffy nose can still be concerning for parents and caregivers. A stuffed nose can make babies
experience difficulty in breathing, which can affect their feeding and sleeping routine.
Colds, allergies, and flu are the common causes of nasal congestion among children. To help
your little one stay comfortable and breathe easier, follow these tips you can easily do at home.
1. Let your child inhale steamy air
Providing warm, steamy air for your child to inhale is one of the most simple yet effective ways
in helping relieve a stuffy nose. Steamy air can help loosen thick mucus in your child’s nasal
cavities and clear congestion. You can use a humidifier or run a warm bath and close the
bathroom door and let the steam fill the room.
2. Use a nasal seawater spray
For newborns and toddlers who are not yet capable of blowing their nose, a nasal seawater spray can be a parent’s reliable friend in helping them clear their children’s nasal passages.
Nasal seawater sprays help eliminate allergens, viruses, and other impurities that make the clearing of accumulated nasal discharge easier. Try using Aqua Maris Baby Nasal Spray, which is formulated with 100% Adriatic seawater and is free from any additives and preservatives.Aqua Maris Baby Nasal Spray uses bag-on-valve technology and a specifically designed nozzle for babies for a softer blow.
When using Aqua Maris Baby Nasal Spray, depress the spray pump and apply 1-3 sprays per
nostril or more often when necessary. Gently wipe the mucus from your child’s nose afterward to
prevent skin irritation.
3. Give your child plenty of fluids
Drinking a lot of water can help thin out mucus, which makes it easier for your child to disperse it
through their nose or to cough it up. Water and other fluids can also help prevent your child from
getting dehydration caused by fever.
4. Make them get plenty of restful sleep
A sick child is often a lethargic child. Make sure that your little one gets plenty of restful sleep to
help them gain the strength that they need to fully recover.
Congestion can be uncomfortable and can cause toddlers to be antsy too. If your child can’t fall
asleep easily, try encouraging quiet play. Place them in a comfortable spot on the bed
surrounded by pillows and their favorite toys. Read them a book, tell them a story, or simply stay
by their side until they get lulled to sleep.
5. Change your child’s sleeping position
Nasal congestion can worsen at night. This is because our sinuses cannot drain easily when
lying down. To relieve your child from the discomfort of a blocked nose and help them have a
peaceful sleep, try elevating their sleeping position. You can do this by providing them with more
pillows beneath their head or placing one under their upper body. The gravity from this upright
sleeping position can help reduce congestion.
Key takeaway
These are just some of the easy remedies that you do to help relieve your child’s nasal
congestion at home. Remember that OTC (over-the-counter) drugs should not be given to a
child unless prescribed by a doctor. If symptoms persist, consult your local pediatrician to get
proper medical advice.
