Since infants primarily breathe through their nose rather than their mouth, a stuffy nose is extremely uncomfortable. With their nostrils being so small along with the inability to blow their nose, infants cannot clear out excess mucus from their own nose. This discomfort can hinder a good night’s sleep as well as proper feeding.
A stuffy nose is certainly not life threatening and can be treated by a few simple measures. For example, running a hot shower in your bathroom. Once a good amount of steam has accumulated, sit with your infant in the bathroom. This will help to loosen the mucus in the nose.
Another more permanent option is placing an ultrasonic humidifier or cool-mist vaporizer in the infant’s room. Be sure to only use cool water and clean the machine regularly to prevent the growth and spread of bacteria.
A suction bulb is a safe and effective way to remove nasal mucus. First squeeze the bulb, and then insert the tip into one nostril and release. Squeeze out any nasal mucus into a tissue. Repeat in the other nostril. Always keep the suction bulb clean and sterilized.
Saline, or salt water, solutions can be used to loosen the mucus as well. Whether you make it at home or buy it at the drugstore, be sure that the dropper does not come into contact with the infant’s nose; this will contaminate it. Administer the saline solution by tilting the infant’s head back or laying the child face up on your lap. Gravity will help to pull the drops into the upper nasal passage.
Dulcamara is a common homeopathic remedy. Infants should not be given any type of cold medicine unless prescribed by the doctor. Some medicines may have harmful side effects for infants. Be sure to keep the infant well hydrated.