A runny nose is a common condition that young children get.
Whether caused by a cold, sinus infection, or allergies, it can be a good idea to learn how to help your child feel better when she has a runny nose.
Home Remedies for Runny Noses
Especially with all of the recent warnings about not giving young kids cold medicines, it can be helpful to know some home remedies that don't involve actually giving your baby a cold medicine.
These home remedies can include:
- using a cool mist humidifier.
- placing a few drops of saline nasal drops in your child's nostrils, which can help thin the mucus in your baby's nose, waiting a minute or two, and then suctioning it out with a nasal aspirator designed for babies.
- making sure your baby is well-hydrated by continuing to breastfeed or drink her baby formula. If she doesn't seem to be drinking as well, give her a few extra ounces of an electrolyte solution such as Pedialyte, with or instead of each feeding.
- giving your child a pain or fever reliever if she seems fussy, including products with acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil), although ibuprofen should only be given once your baby is six months old.
When using a nasal aspirator or suction bulb, squeeze the bulb before you place it in your child's nose. This motion releases air and helps build suction. You can then gently place the bulb's tip into your child's nose and slowly release the bulb.
Calling Your Pediatrician
In general, you should call your pediatrician if your baby's runny nose is lingering for more than seven to 10 days, if she is under two to three months old and has a fever, is having trouble breathing, or seems fussy and inconsolable.
