Just like adults, infants can and do suffer from congestion Most of the time, congestion is harmless, and while it may not be fun for you or your baby, the symptoms should pass as quickly as they came. Here’s what your pediatric ENT in Amherst wants you to know about congestion in infants.
What Causes Congestion in Babies?
Because their nasal passages are so tiny, even the most minor of pollutants can irritate a baby’s system. If your child isn’t congested because of a virus or allergies, cigarette smoke, dry air, or pollution might be at fault. Even changes in the weather might cause your infant to become congested.
If you notice that your child is snoring, breathing with difficulty, refusing to eat normally, coughing, or sniffling, he/she is probably congested.
How Do You Treat Congestion in Babies?
Here are some great tips from your favorite pediatric ENT in Amherst:
Baths—The steam from the bathtub can help loosen the mucus in your child’s nose so it can drain away naturally. If your child is reluctant to take a bath, you can also hold him/her in the bathroom while letting the shower run.
Air Quality—You might also consider placing a humidifier in the baby’s bedroom at night. If your child is very sensitive, you could even invest in an air filter to clear the air of any potential irritants.
Saline Sprays—You can pick up a simple, over-the-counter saline spray to help with decongestion. Squeeze a couple of drops of salt water into each nostril and then suck up the liquid with a suction bulb.
When Should You Call Your Pediatric ENT in Amherst?
If you feel there is a cause for concern, you shouldn’t hesitate to call your pediatric ENT in Amherst. That being said, there are some warning signs you should know.
Time—If congestion doesn’t pass after a week or two, your child may be suffering from environmental allergies. Children and adults alike suffer from allergies, and it’s just as uncomfortable at a young age. You’ll know an allergy from a cold by the clear color of the mucus and the lack of fever.
Irregular Breathing—If your baby is breathing at a rate of more than 60 breaths per minute, he/she probably won’t be eating and sleeping normally either. Any rapid breathing, flared nostrils, or moaning while breathing is troubling. If you notice any of these signs, make sure to call your pediatric ENT as soon as possible.
Dry Diapers—If your baby can’t breathe, he/she probably isn’t in the mood to eat or drink. Dry diapers are a sign that your baby isn’t eating and drinking as much as he/she should be.
