There are many problems that can lead to a congestion in a baby. At times, newborns get congested easily, mainly because their nasal passages are very tiny. Thus, even a little bit of mucus, irritation in the air, or spit up breast milk that goes in the nose can be a cause behind it. Babies are not able to combat several minor ailments like a cold on their own. And, if they have a blocked nose, there is a chance of getting cranky and uneasy. However, when your baby has too much mucus, it can result in head pain. It can also make eating or breathing difficult for them. There are some at home natural treatments that can help in making them comfortable again. Read further to know about some effective home remedies to treat blocked nose in babies.
Home remedies for blocked nose in babies
There are some simple home remedies, such as using a humidifier, that can provide relief from congestion in infants. In most of the cases, common cold cause symptoms such as congestion, but other factors can include allergies. Here are 5 home remedies to treat blocked nose in babies:
1. Humidifier
Humidifier play a major role as they add moisture to the air, which can prevent mucus from drying up inside the baby’s nose. You can place a cool-mist humidifier in the baby’s room near his/her bed, crib, but make sure he can’t reach it. Make sure to clean and dry it regularly to prevent the growth of bacteria or mold inside.
2. Mustard oil massage
A mustard oil massage is another effective natural way of treating cold and nasal congestion, in both adults and babies. To use this as a home remedy, take 1/4th cup of mustard oil with 3-4 cloves, minced garlic and fenugreek seeds and heat it a bit. Wait for the oil to cool down, then massage your baby using it. Apply the mustard oil gently and softly over the nasal bridge, forehead, cheeks, chest and the back.
3. Saline drops
Saline drops is also an easy and affordable home remedy to treat blocked nose in babies. You can buy it from any store. Just put 2-3 drops in each nostril of the child and then take the help of a bulb syringe to remove mucus. It is considered safe for repitition. However, you should be aware that this remedy works best if your baby is under 6 months. Older kids might not let you use the bulb for removing mucus. The saline drops thin the mucus, so the nose can even eliminate it on its own.
4. Plenty of fluids
Water and many other fluids can help in thinning the mucus, making it easier for a baby to cough it out. Giving plenty of fluids can also help in preventing dehydration if an infant is running down with fever. Toddlers may be wanting to drink fluids more from a cup that has silly creatures or fun straws with it.
5. Breastfeeding
In such situations, it is important to move the focus on breastfeeding your baby. Breast milk contains certain essential nutrients and antibodies that grow and make your baby’s immune system stronger. A healthy immune system can help your baby combat illnesses like cold and cough.
6. Steam inhalation
Not direct steam inhalation from a steamer, but keeping your baby in a warm and steamy room can also be useful to thin the thick mucus and make it easier for your baby to breathe freely. You can give your child a warm bath before bedtime. Allow the steam to fill in your room by opening the hottest setting of shower, while sitting with the baby. The room should not be too hot that breathing gets difficult.
7. Chicken soup
Chicken soup is also an effective home remedy to cure congestion in babies. It can relieve blocked nose by reducing inflammation. A few researches show that chicken soup can reduce inflammation in the upper respiratory tract, which is responsible for triggering cold congestion symptoms. In fact, chicken soup can also help a child in staying hydrated and motivate them to keep eating even if they are sick.
Parents can follow the above listed home remedies for congestion and blocked nose in children. If your baby has cold, it will be fine in a few days, but with nasal blockage, it takes time. If the symptoms in your baby are getting severe or they develop a fever, or the congestion is not getting better, it is best to consult with a a doctor for treatment.
