Congested nose in children

Congested nose in children

Small children catch colds more often than adults, and 6-8 colds a year is completely normal. In addition, many young children often suffer from stuffy or runny noses. It can be challenging to have a stuffy nose in children, as it can, among other things, affect the child's sleep, mood and appetite.

Why do children often get stuffy or runny noses?

Colds and other respiratory infections often cause a stuffy or runny nose. Babies and children do not have a fully developed immune system and, among other things, catch colds more often than adults. Small children in kindergarten often have a runny and stuffy nose, even without catching a cold.

If your child has persistent nasal congestion, you should contact a doctor, as there may be a different cause than normal viral infections. For example, many children with false tonsils suffer from chronic nasal congestion.

Stuffy nose at night

When lying down, the nasal cavities become narrower and congestion in the nose often gets worse when lying down. A good tip is therefore to raise the head of the child's bed so that the child's head is slightly higher than usual. Also try to brush the child's nose properly before putting the child to bed so that the nose is as well cleaned as possible before going to bed.

Use salt water!

Salt water is recommended for stuffy noses in children. Salt water dissolves mucus, making it easier to remove. Salt water is available as a spray, drops and rinse and can be used as often as desired. For small children who cannot blow their nose themselves, there is a nasal aspirator that allows parents to help the child suck out mucus and snot from the nose.

TIP: If the baby has problems breastfeeding due to nasal congestion, breast milk or salt water can be dripped into the child's nose before the meal.

Nasal spray with mucosal decongestant

If salt water does not have a sufficient effect, mucosal decongestant nasal drops/nasal spray can be tried. In order for the mucosal decongestant spray to have an optimal effect, you can first brush your nose with salt water and then use the mucosal decongestant spray.

Mucosal decongestants contract the mucous membranes in the nose, making it easier to breathe. Long-term use can lead to chronic nasal congestion, and for children no more than 5 days of continuous use is recommended. Children under 2 years of age should use mucosal decongestant nasal sprays/drops on the advice of a doctor, pharmacist or health nurse.

Sources: Apotekforeningen, Felleskatalogen, Helsenorge and Norwegian health informatics.