Congestion Remedy for Infants

Infants naturally breathe through their noses. If an infant gets congested, he won't know to open his mouth and take a breath. That is why it is important for parents to take action and help relieve their baby of congestion. There are a few things that can be done at home without using any over-the-counter decongestants which can be harmful for infants.

Saline Drops

• Saline drops work to break up the mucus in your baby's nasal passages. They are completely safe to use on infants. In fact, Little Remedies makes saline drops for infants. To clear up your infant's congestion, you will need to tilt her head back. Turn the saline drop container upside down and drip three to four drops in your infant's left nostril. Wait a few minutes before repeating this with the right nostril. You can do this several times per day as needed for the congestion.

Infant Sleeping Wedge

• Laying flat can make congestion worse. You can help your infant breathe better during nap and bedtime by using an infant sleeping wedge. This wedge will prop the baby up so that the head remains higher than the chest. This works to keep your infant's airways open. In addition to the sleeping wedge, you will want to make sure that your baby is propped up during the day. You can use a bouncy seat or a swing.

Cool Mist Vaporizer

• If your infant is congested you will need to pick up a cool mist vaporizer. This device is sold in pharmacies and children's specialty stores. Set the cool mist vaporizer near your infant so that he can breathe in the mist. The cool mist will work to help your infant breathe by causing everything in the nasal passages to become liquid. The liquid will keep moving and not stay put and clog up the nasal passages. It can also help to reduce any inflammation your infant may be experiencing. It is totally safe to use during the day or throughout the night.