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Health Tip: Ease Baby's Stuffy Nose

Last Updated: 2011-Apr-28  ::  (HealthDay)

(HealthDay News) -- Easing a sniffly baby's stuffy nose can make both baby and parents feel better.

The ADAM Encyclopedia suggests how to help reduce nasal congestion in babies:

  • With the baby lying on the back and a towel rolled up beneath the shoulders, place two-to-three drops of a saline solution into the nose before rolling baby onto the stomach.
  • Use a nasal suction bulb, sometimes called an aspirator, to suck mucus from baby's nose. Follow the product's directions carefully.
  • Elevate the head of baby's crib.
  • Get baby to drink a lot of fluids, so breast-feed or offer formula frequently.
  • Use a cool-mist vaporizer. But don't let the room get too humid, and remember to disinfect the vaporizer daily.
  • Before bedtime, run a hot shower and take baby into the steamy bathroom to help break up congestion. Never put baby in the hot shower.
  • Don't use cough-and-cold medicines or nasal sprays in children younger than 2.
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Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.