SAEDNEWS: A runny nose is a common issue among children. It occurs when the nasal cavity fills with mucus.In this article, we will explore the causes of a child’s runny nose and the methods used to treat it.
According to the Family Service of Saed News, a runny nose is a common issue among children. Their immature immune system can be a major factor, and frequent touching of new objects and putting them in their mouths increases their exposure to various infections. Although over-the-counter medications are available, they are not recommended for children due to potential side effects. If you are looking for effective home remedies for your child’s runny nose, you can use the methods suggested in this article according to your child’s age limitations.
Runny nose (rhinorrhea) is one of the most common symptoms of many childhood illnesses. As a result, parents may find it difficult to determine the underlying cause and choose the most effective treatment. A runny nose can indicate different conditions—from a simple cold or allergy to more serious issues such as sinus infection. In this article, we review the most common causes and how to prevent runny nose in children.
Research shows that nearly half of children aged 6 to 19 suffer from allergies. A child with allergies may experience symptoms such as nasal irritation, sneezing, watery eyes, itching, and skin redness. If allergies persist or worsen, they may also develop sore throat, headache, and cough. Allergies can disturb sleep, leading to irritability and difficulty concentrating the next day.
Preschool children catch colds several times a year. Runny nose is one of the main symptoms and occurs due to a viral infection in the nose. Other symptoms of cold in children include:
Coughing
Sneezing
Sore throat
A deviated nasal septum occurs when the bone and cartilage that divide the nasal cavity shift to one side, making one nasal passage narrower. Some children are born with it, while others develop it due to injury. Although treatment is rarely needed, children with severe symptoms may benefit from septoplasty surgery.
Sinuses are hollow spaces around the eyes, nose, and forehead. When a child has a cold or allergies, the sinuses become inflamed and produce excess mucus. If the mucus cannot drain properly, the sinuses may become blocked and infected. Symptoms of sinusitis include fever, green nasal discharge, and headache.
When a baby cries, tears flow from the tear ducts into the nasal cavity, causing a runny nose.
In some cases, cold air can trigger a reaction that increases mucus production.
Nasal polyps are grape-like growths that form in the nasal lining.
In young children, runny nose with a foul odor may be due to a foreign object (e.g., nut or bead) stuck in the nose.
Rarely, nasal obstruction may be caused by benign or malignant tumors or cysts. This is usually suspected when symptoms appear only on one side of the nose.
Choanal atresia refers to a congenital blockage at the back of the nasal passage (nasopharynx) due to bone or tissue. If both sides are blocked, it is usually diagnosed immediately after birth. If only one side is blocked, it may go undetected for a long time. Pyriform aperture stenosis occurs when the bony nasal opening becomes narrow, causing nasal obstruction.
A runny nose can be very bothersome. Viruses spread through droplets from sneezing, coughing, and nasal discharge. Since it is difficult to stop children from touching their face or mouth, they can easily spread germs to others. The following treatments are effective in stopping a runny nose:
A child with a runny nose may breathe through the mouth, which leads to dryness and dehydration. Therefore, it is very important to increase milk intake (breast milk or formula). If your child is over 6 months old, you can offer a little water or other fluids—always after consulting a pediatrician.
Mucus buildup can make breathing difficult. A suction bulb is useful for removing mucus from the nose and helping the child breathe better. It is available in any pharmacy without a prescription. Be sure to clean the device before each use.
Keeping the child’s head slightly elevated helps mucus drain better and prevents it from collecting in the throat. Place a very soft towel or two under their head to raise it a few centimeters. Do not elevate the head too much to avoid discomfort.
Constant moisture under the nose can irritate the skin. Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly under the nose to protect the skin and prevent respiratory irritation.
These home remedies can be used based on the child’s age, but only with the doctor’s permission, as each remedy may benefit some children and harm others.
Mix ginger juice with honey. Give this mixture to your child two to three times a day.
Warm a little mustard oil with garlic cloves and carom seeds. Massage the mixture onto the child’s back and chest. Improvement may be seen after two applications.
Mix camphor with coconut oil and warm slightly. Gently massage on the child’s chest, back, and neck. This helps clear the chest and improve runny nose.
Also, ensure the child wears warm clothing in cold seasons, and use a humidifier to maintain proper indoor humidity to prevent runny nose.
Encourage your child to blow or clear their nasal mucus regularly.
Clean the nose gently with a soft tissue.
Apply petroleum jelly or olive oil around the nose to prevent redness, dryness, and cracking.
Avoid exposure to allergens and irritants such as pets, dust, mites, chemical fumes, and cigarette smoke.
Slightly elevate the head during sleep (without using a pillow). A rolled-up T-shirt can be used.
Avoid giving fatty or hard-to-digest foods.
Keep the child’s room warm and dress them in light, comfortable clothing.
Place the child in a cradle or safe resting position to increase comfort.
Seek medical attention if:
Your child is struggling to the point where eating or drinking is affected.
Signs of dehydration appear (e.g., no wet diaper for 6–7 hours, lethargy, inability to produce tears).
The cold lasts more than a few weeks without improvement.
