Is it safe to use nasal drops on my baby?
When blocked nose causes a lot of discomfort even to an adult, what can you say for the babies? It is sure to a cause a lot of discomfort. Nights become miserable for the kids and the parents as well. I am sure as a parent you are desperate to get rid of the blocked nose of your baby. Many nasal drops, with the promise of giving instant relief from blocked nose, are available in the market? Is it safe to use nasal drops on my baby – This is a frequently raised question. Do you want to know the answer? Here is an analysis.
There are three types of nasal sprays available in the market.
- Decongestant nasal sprays – They contain medications like oxymetazoline or phenylphrine or xylometazoline or naphazoline etc. They help in narrowing the blood vessels in your nose. This helps in reduction of swelling in the nose and gives instant relief from nose congestion.
- Saline nasal sprays – It is a spray containing a mixture of salt and water. It works by softening and loosening hardened nasal mucus and clearing it out from the nasal passages.
- Steroid nasal sprays – Medicines used in this spray include Fluticasone, monetasone, triamcinolone or beclomethasone.
Which of the above are safe for your baby?
Saline nasal sprays are the safest for your baby because they do not contain any drugs.
- A saline nasal spray loosens the mucus. You can then extract the mucus with a nasal aspirator.
- Saline drops don’t cause any side effects.
- Saline drops can be used in babies from birth and in older babies and children.
- You can use it as often as needed to clear your child’s blocked nose.
- They do not affect other medicines.
- You can use a saline spray or drops, both are effective.
- Saline drops combined with nasal aspiration can be done before each feed and bedtime.
However, you should be careful to follow a few basic tips to avoid undesired side effects.
- You should make sure you clean your hands to avoid further infection in the baby.
- You should not share droppers. One bottle per baby.
- You should not place the dropper outside the nostril and should not insert inside. Keep it right at the opening of the nostrils and squeeze one or two drops.
Decongestant nasal sprays
Decongestant nasal sprays are not recommended for little ones below the age of 6. If your child is above 6 years, it is not advisable to use them for more than 3 to 4 days. When you use for 5 days or more it may cause a rebound effect. When the effect of the nasal drop wears off it may worsen the congestion.
Steroid nasal sprays
Steroid nasal sprays are not advisable because they cause side effects like burning and stinging, itching and soreness.
Verdict
When helping your baby to overcome his nasal congestion or blocked nose, saline nasal drops are an essential aid. When combined with a nasal aspirator, it can be a real help .