How to Clear Nasal Congestion in Infants

Nasal congestion in infants and small children can be a difficult thing to deal with. While it is a common symptom and is not a sign of sickness or disease, it can still be inconvenient and cause the infant discomfort. The good news about nasal congestion is that it is common and can many times be easily cured.

Things You'll Need

• Humidifier
• Nasal drops

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Instructions

• 1

  Put the infant somewhere with moist air. Baby's noses are small, so they're sensitive to dry air. Put the infant in a room with a humidifier or vaporizer.

• 2

  Use a nasal decongestant or nasal drops, but consult a doctor before you do just to confirm how much you should use. Typically a physician recommends a drop or two every few hours to stop nasal congestion in infants.

• 3

  Try chest rubs or medicine for your infant. Make sure to consult a doctor before doing so. Rub a decongestant chest rub jelly or cream on your baby's chest in the morning and at night before your child goes to sleep. Using a chest rub on your infant at night helps your baby breathe more effectively during the nighttime hours.

• 4

  Keep the infant elevated when lying down. Congestion is worse when you lie down, especially on your back or stomach. Keeping the infant elevated allows the nasal passages to clear more thoroughly.

• 5

  Encourage the child to blow his nose often. This helps to clear the nasal passages and allows excess mucus to come out. When an infant's nose is running, dab the mucus under the nose with a tissue. Don't wipe as that can cause irritation.