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Post Nasal Drip in Children

Children, especially those who attend childcare centers or go to school, often develop illnesses that lead to postnasal drip. Although postnasal drip is not usually a cause for medical concern, it can result in discomfort and complications such as sinus or ear infections if left untreated. Consider this information from the Mayo Clinic, the National Library of Medicine and Drugs.com about postnasal drip in children.

  1. Symptoms

    • Children with postnasal drip may sniffle frequently and have a runny nose that may flow freely. Postnasal drip in children can also cause coughing and a sore throat, which can lead to difficulty with eating or swallowing. Children with postnasal drip may have a decreased appetite and babies and toddlers with postnasal drip may refuse the bottle or breast.

    Causes

    • Children with respiratory infections such as the common cold may develop postnasal drip that lasts for several weeks. Seasonal or year long allergies may also be a cause of postnasal drip in children. Children infected with respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis, chickenpox, pertussis, roseola or rubella may also develop postnasal drip.

    Considerations

    • Young children may not be able to explain their symptoms or tell parents or caregivers what hurts. Caregivers should take care to observe young children and babies who have runny noses and other respiratory symptoms. Postnasal drip may cause children to be irritable and distracted and have difficulty sleeping.

    Home Remedies

    • Children with postnasal drip may benefit from the classic cold remedy of chicken soup or chicken broth. Giving children plenty of liquids such as orange juice, hot cocoa, sports drinks and water can soothe sore throats and thin mucus. Children with postnasal drip may also benefit from spending time in a steamy bath or breathing air moistened by a humidifier.

    Medical Treatments

    • Children with postnasal drip that interferes with normal daily activities or does not get better after trying home remedies may need medical treatment. Pediatricians may prescribe antibiotics for postnasal drip caused by bacterial infections. Antihistamines or allergy shots may be prescribed for children with postnasal drip caused by seasonal or year long allergies.

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