It’s never pleasant to see your young child uncomfortable.  When babies and toddlers have a stuffy nose, they often feel helpless. It’s no wonder they often get fussy and have trouble sleeping!  After all, who knew that such a tiny nose could hold so much congestion? To make matters worse, some of the typical remedies that relieve this frustrating symptom for adults can’t be administered to a child.

At Child Safety Store, we know how frustrating this can be. We want your little one to be bright-eyed and bushy-tailed. So let’s discuss what to do when your baby or toddler has a stuffy nose.

The Root of the Problem

Babies and toddlers often get sick as they build immunity to everyday viruses. In the case of a stuffy nose, inflammation or too much fluid in the nasal cavity can lead to congestion and sinus infections. Often, this can be caused by allergies, dry air and a common cold, among other things. Other symptoms of nasal congestion include thick or discolored nasal mucus, snoring or noisy breathing while asleep, sniffling, sneezing or coughing.

Treating a Stuffy Nose 

It is never advisable to give cold medications to children under the age of six without first consulting your child’s pediatrician.  This can be frustrating, since the solutions we turn to as adults cannot provide our children with relief. Luckily, there are still some treatment options available to help alleviate their discomfort. 

First, to help minimize the risk of contracting a cold to begin with, wash your hands and your child's hands frequently. In addition, ask everyone who comes in contact with your baby to do the same. If your child already has a stuffy nose, you may try one of these treatments:

Saline drops and Nasal Aspirator

One of the most effective ways to clear a baby’s stuffy nose is a saline spray, which is available at most pharmacies. Put two drops in each nostril to loosen the mucus, and then use a nasal bulb aspirator to suction the mucus out the nasal passages.

The Safety 1st Newborn Nasal Aspirator is specially designed for smaller babies. It features a soft, flexible tip that is comfortable for a newborn.

Another option is the Safety 1st Easy Clean Nasal Aspirator. This product's clear tip helps you to be sure that the aspirator is working properly.  This aspirator separates easily into two pieces for thorough cleaning, and it is even top-rack dishwasher safe. Simply squeeze the bulb before placing it into your child’s nostril, and then release the bulb to pull out the mucus from inside. 

Vapor rubs

Depending on the advice of your pediatrician, you may be able to use some vapor rubs on the soles of your child's feet or on their chest, but never use it under or inside your child’s nose. If you use a vapor rub, look for one that is specially formulated for babies.

Humidifier

A humidifier can moisten the air in your child’s room by releasing a cool mist that can help to relieve dry, irritated sinuses. Place the humidifier near the child so that the mist reaches them, but never use hot water, as it can cause burns. Always be sure to clean the device after every use to avoid the growth of bacteria inside.  If you don’t have a humidifier, you may let your shower create steam in your bathroom. Hold your baby in the steamy room for several minutes.

If your child’s stuffy nose is accompanied by other symptoms, such as a fever or sore throat, this can be the sign of something more serious. Additionally, if your baby ever shows signs of troubled breathing, consult a doctor or call 9-1-1. Typically, a stuffy nose is nothing to worry about, however the treatments above can help to relieve your baby or toddler’s discomfort until symptoms subside.