If you’ve noticed that your child is breathing heavier than normal or snoring when they don’t usually do so, it’s likely that they have a congested nose. Approximately 12% of the U.S. population is congested at any given time.[1] While the symptom is common, many people struggle to get rid of it.
Understanding the possible causes of your child’s congestion and trying a few things to manage it will get your little one breathing easier in no time.
Common Causes of Pediatric Congestion
It doesn’t take a lot to congest your little one’s tiny nose. A few things that can inflame the tissues lining their sinuses and obstruct breathing include:
- Allergies
- Colds
- Flu
- Nasal polyps
- Enlarged adenoids
- Cold or dry air
In addition to identifying and treating the underlying cause with the help of an ENT specialist, there are a few home remedies you can try to improve your child’s congestion.
Home Remedies for Congestion
Try the following to help your child breathe easier:
- Use a steamer or humidifier. A facial steamer or humidifier will hydrate your child’s sinuses and decrease inflammation. You can also create your own steam by running a hot shower or bath and placing a towel under the door to trap the steam.
- Have them drink plenty of fluids. Dehydration can worsen congestion. Give your child plenty of water or their favorite juice.
- Try nasal strips. If your child is over five years old, have them sleep with a pediatric nasal strip over their nose to reduce congestion and snoring.
- Offer over-the-counter medicine. Over-the-counter antihistamines, short-term decongestants or cold and flu medication can provide temporary relief.
If your child’s congestion persists for more than 10 days or if they have a fever, it’s time to make an appointment with an ENT specialist. Our specialists at ENT for Children can examine their nose and sinuses and review their medical history to get to the bottom of the underlying condition and treat it.
[1] Cleveland Clinic medical professional. (2022). Nasal congestion. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17980-nasal-congestion