Easy Tips to Help Clear Your Child’s Stuffy Nose

The dreaded cold and flu season is here and sneezes and viruses are everywhere. My own children were very sick a few weeks ago and many of my little one’s friends are currently sick.

Prevention is always the way to go but sometimes catching the cold/flu is inevitable!

Is your little one sick? Here are some tips with some simple things you can do to help:

• Use a humidifier or have them breath in the steam from a hot shower

A stuffy or congested nose occurs when the tissues lining it become swollen. The swelling is due to inflamed blood vessels. Breathing in moist air can significantly help sooth the irritated tissue. Use a humidifier in your child’s room to help reduce congestion.  Don’t have one? Then take your little one to the bathroom, close the door, turn the hot water on the shower an allow it to run while you sit close to the tub. Breathing in the steam from the shower will help thin out any mucus and also reduce inflammation.

• Use a nasal saline spray

Just a few sprays of a saline mist solution like Boogie Mist in each nostril will help clear and moisturize nasal passages. These also help thining the mucus, which in turn will help decrease the inflammation of their blood vessels.  Using a saline mist before trying a nasal aspirator also makes it easier to remove all the mucus and congestion.

• Use a Nasal Aspirator

Use a Nasal Aspirator or snotsucker like the NoseFrida to gently remove mucus from the nose. It may sound gross but it is actually very hygienic and safe. I have used it many times and it really provides fast relief.

• Keep them Hydrated

Keep your little one hydrated with water, tea, soup and natural juices. If they are younger then ensure you are breastfeeding them often or offering enough water. Hydration is very important when you are sick, staying hydrated helps thinning the mucus, reducing pressure in their sinuses and pushing the fluids out of their nose.

Finally, don’t forget to use gentle wipes when blowing your little one’s nose. A chapped nose is not fun and it will just add to their discomfort. We use Boogie Wipes, they are very gentle and they are alcohol-free!