How to treat a runny nose in a newborn baby?

2025 Author: Priscilla Miln | [email protected]. Last modified: 2025-01-22 17:55

Rhinitis is a fairly common phenomenon that can affect children of any age, including very young ones. However, not all parents know how to treat a runny nose in a newborn. But it is necessary to get rid of such a nuisance as soon as possible, because a prolonged runny nose can lead to chronic diseases of the nasal mucosa. In addition, because of the mucus that has accumulated in the nasal passages, it is difficult for the baby to breathe. Babies who are breastfed cannot eat fully, as they have to breathe through their mouths. Because of this, the child develops irritability, he often cries for a long time, his sleep becomes restless and, most importantly, the baby gains or even loses weight poorly. Before answering the question of how to treat a runny nose in a newborn, it is necessary to establish the causes of its occurrence.

Causes of a runny nose

In babies under two months, the presence of discharge from the nose does not always indicate any disease. During this period, there may be a so-called physiological runny nose. At this age, the nasopharyngeal mucosa cannot yet fully perform its functions, thereforemay secrete a small amount of mucus.

Of course, most runny noses are caused by a cold, a viral infection, or the flu. This always causes swelling of the mucous membrane, and it becomes difficult for the baby to breathe.

Allergens such as animal dander, dust, pollen can also cause a newborn baby to runny nose. Therefore, whenever possible, the baby should be protected from potentially dangerous objects.

Rhinitis in a newborn: how to treat?

First of all, it is necessary to create a certain microclimate in the room. The air should be humid and cool, and the temperature should not exceed 22 ºС. By the way, such an atmosphere in the children's room should be constantly, and not only during the period of illness. This will help keep the mucus in your little nose from drying out.

In addition, not only the air in the room, but also the nasal mucosa should be moistened. For this, a simple saline solution is best - water and s alt. This solution should be instilled into the baby's nose every 30 minutes (3-4 drops each).

Of course, the best option is to see a pediatrician. He will conduct an examination and give recommendations on how to treat a runny nose in a newborn. You can also use certain medications designed specifically for children to fix the problem. However, you should not prescribe medication yourself, let the doctor do it.

Possible Complications

Eliminate runny nosethe newborn is necessary immediately after the onset of symptoms. Not fully cured, it can give serious complications. The most dangerous of these is pneumonia. Also, with improper or untimely treatment, sinusitis, sinusitis, bronchitis, pharyngitis can develop.

You should also not wipe your baby's nose too hard and often. This may cause sores on the wings of the nose, which will cause pain to the baby, which will only increase his irritability.

Of course, any disease is much easier to prevent than to treat for a long time. Therefore, strengthening the immunity of the baby should be the main task of parents. But, nevertheless, everyone should know how to treat a runny nose in a newborn.