Can You Use Saline Nasal Spray for Infants?

A saline nasal spray is a go-to solution for many adults to clear stuffy or congested nose caused due to colds, allergies, or sinus infections. But can you use saline nasal spray for infants? Well, as a parent, it is natural to be concerned about using anything new for your little one. So, in case you have been thinking of using a saline nasal spray for your baby, read on as we share with you if it is okay to use it for your little one.

Why Do Babies Get a Blocked or Stuffy Nose?

Like adults, even babies develop a congestion or stuffy nose when exposed to certain triggers. However, they are more prone to it as their nasal passages are still tiny and not completely mature. Their bodies produce excess mucus to get rid of the irritants, and this results in congestion, making it difficult for them to breathe, especially during feeding and sleeping.

Common triggers for congestion in babies include:

• Weather changes
• Dry air
• Pollutants
• Smoke
• Allergies
• Viral infections
• Deviated septum

Symptoms of Blocked Nose in Infants

If your baby has a blocked nose or nasal congestion, you can expect to notice the following symptoms:

• Thick mucus in the nose
• Difficulty breathing
• Noisy breathing, especially during sleep
• Sniffling
• Cough
• Nasal flaring
• Fussiness and irritation
• Trouble sleeping
• Trouble feeding (as baby cannot breathe properly while sucking)

What is a Saline Nasal Spray and When to Use One?

A saline nasal spray is a simple solution made with water and salt (sodium chloride). It contains no other medication. Isotonic saline sprays contain 0.9% salt, which is the same saline concentration found in our bodies. You can also find hypertonic saline sprays, but isotonic solutions are preferable for infant use.

You can use a saline spray in case of:

• Common cold and flu
• Allergies
• Sinus infections
• Nasal dryness

You can easily purchase a saline nasal spray from any local or online pharmacy.

Can You Use a Saline Nasal Spray for Infants?

A saline nasal spray is a safe choice for clearing stuffy and snotty nose in infants. As it does not contain any medication, you don’t have to worry about unwanted side effects.

Saline sprays usually come in a spray cum dropper bottle. You can either use it as a spray if you think your baby would be comfortable, or use it as drops to clear the nasal passages. When used correctly, your baby will be able to breathe better, feed better, and sleep better too!

How do Saline Nasal Sprays or Drops Help?

As babies cannot speak for themselves, it is their parent’s job to keep an eye on any discomfort they might be dealing with. If your baby is showing the signs and symptoms of nasal congestion as mentioned above, you may use a saline nasal spray to help them find relief. However, we would suggest you call your paediatrician to confirm if it is okay to use a saline nasal spray for your infant. If you get the go-ahead, the saline spray will:

• Thin out the mucus and facilitate drainage and removal
• Relieve stuffiness in the nose
• Wash out pollen and other allergens from the nasal lining
• Moisten nasal passages
• Make breathing easier

How to Use Saline Nasal Spray for Infants?

Many saline nasal sprays can be used in spray or drop form. Which form you use depends on your baby’s age and their comfort level. For infants, it is best to ask your paediatrician whether you should use the spray or drop format. Also, confirm the dosage and frequency to avoid overuse.

General steps to use as a saline nasal spray:

1. Clean the tip of saline nasal spray, if used before.

2. Hold your baby in a comfortable position, either upright or reclined position.

3. Place the tip of the spray close to your baby’s nostril and spray the suggested dose.

4. If using the spray as nasal drops for infants, put 1-2 drops of the nasal spray in one nostril at a time.

5. Let the spray moisten the mucus for 1-2 minutes.

6. You may now wipe your baby’s nose with a tissue or use a bulb syringe to suck out excess mucus from the nostrils.

7. Clean the bulb syringe and tip of the nasal spray and store them properly for next use.

Always read the instructions given on the label to understand how a particular spray must be used. This way you can ensure you are using the spray correctly for your child.

Things to Keep in Mind

Here are some things you should keep in mind when using a saline nasal spray for your baby:

1. Use an infant nasal spray meant specifically for babies and infants.

2. Always read the label so you don’t miss out on important instructions.

3. Use only the suggested dose in your baby’s nostrils.

4. Practice gentle application of the nasal spray. Never force it on your baby.

5. It might help to have another person hold your baby’s head or arms while giving a dose.

6. Do not try to use nasal spray on a fussy or squirmy baby. Wait for them to calm down.

7. Never share the spray bottle with anyone else to avoid the spread of germs.

When to Take Your Baby to a Paediatrician

While it is possible to manage a baby’s stuffy nose at home, there are a few situations when you must take your baby to the doctor:

• Your baby is having trouble breathing
• Your baby isn’t feeding well
• Your baby has a fever with nasal congestion and other symptoms
• In addition to the above, take your baby to a doctor immediately if you notice:
• Your baby is wheezing (creating a whistling sound while breathing out).
• If the colour of your baby’s chest or face starts turning blue or grey (a sign of central cyanosis).

Concluding Thoughts

A saline nasal spray can come to your rescue when your infant is suffering from a blocked nose or nasal congestion. Although you can find several brands of saline nasal spray in the market, for example, Otrivin Breathe Clean Isotonic Nasal Spray, which is suitable for adults and children who are 2 years and older, you might want to talk to your paediatrician to suggest a saline nasal spray for infants. This way you can rest assured the product you are using is safe and effective for your little one.

FAQs

Is a saline nasal spray safe for infant use?

Saline sprays are safe for infants and are often recommended by doctors for relieving nasal congestion.

Which saline spray is the best for newborns?

As there are many products in the market, your paediatrician will be able to suggest the best saline nasal spray for your infant.

How often can I use saline nasal spray for my baby?

You may use the spray 1-2 times a day or as suggested by your paediatrician.

What is the best time to use a saline nasal spray for an infant?

Use the spray a few minutes before feeding or put your baby to sleep so they can breathe better during these times.

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Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified paediatrician for the diagnosis and treatment of your child’s health condition.