Runny nose is a cause of discomfort in babies and children alike. Allergy or head cold is often the cause of the health condition. Sometimes a foreign object may be a cause of runny nose, when it gets struck inside the wrong area of the body because of the inquisitive nature of the child. A runny nose is characterized by accumulation of excess of mucous fluid within the nasal cavity of the child. It may also cause cough, fever, irritability, sneezing, sleep related issues, loss of appetite and other problems. Nasal congestion may accompany runny nose. Home remedies provide for relief from the condition, which often goes away on it own as well. The home remedies are inexpensive and simple-to-apply measures for treating nasal congestion and runny nose.
Here Are 12 Home Remedies For Runny Nose In Child
1. Steam
Steam inhalation provides for removal of excess of mucous fluid that has gathered within the nasal cavity of your child. You can use a facial steamer for making your child inhale the steam. Make the child sit on your lap, and let him inhale the steam emanating out of the steamer. Remember to have a towel over the head, so that the steam does not escape.[1]
2. Honey
Children who are over 2 years of age can be treated for their nasal congestion through honey. Never use the remedy for children of lesser age, as honey has bacteria that can cause the disease botulism. Add 2 spoon of honey in clean and warm water, make a mixture, and give it your child to drink. Do the remedy 2 times a day till the condition is corrected.[2]
3. Chicken Soup
Children suffering from runny nose and appetite related problems can be treated through warm chicken soup. The soup improves the immune system’s strength. The nutritious food is also very light for the child to digest easily. Add vegetables like carrots, spinach and others to the chicken soup, and give it to the child at-least once a day to consume till his condition improves.[4]
4. Sponge Bath
Sponge bath can comfort the child affected from runny nose and fever. It also helps in removing the sleeping discomforts. Soak a cotton washcloth in water (having room temperature), wrung it to remove the excess water, and sponge body areas including hands, feet, armpits, groin and others. Give the bath to the child 2 times every day till his/her condition improves.[4]
5. Increase Intake Of Fluids
Increased intake of fluid provides for prevention of dehydration. It also provides soothing effect on the nasal cavities. The child who is hydrated properly can easily blow the nose, and release cough. For the breastfeeding babies, it is good to have the nutrient. They can also be given extra-fluids in the form of plain milk and the baby formula. Older children can be easily provided with adequate hydration through fruit and vegetable juices.[5]
6. Humidifiers
The cool-mist humidifier adds moisture to the room’s air. This effect of the humidifier provides for loosening of mucous, so that it is easily drained out of the nose. Place the humidifier in the room of the child, so that he/she can easily breathe and recover soon.[6]
7. Keep The Child At Home
Keep the child at home till he/she recovers from the condition. Ample of rest will strengthen the immune system, and will provide for faster recovery. The measure will also spread of the infection.
8. Saline Drops
The nasal saline rinse provides for faster recovery in the condition of runny nose. Add a quarter spoon of table salt into a cup of hot water. Cool the mixture sufficiently, so that it acquires room temperature. Use a dropper for putting in the drops in both the nostrils of the child. Use the bulk syringe for sucking out the excess mucous from the nostrils. You can do the remedy 3 times every day.[8]
9. Warm Wet Cloth
The child’s nose may become red, sore and irritated because of frequent secretions. Use a wet and warm cloth for wiping the nose. You can also rub the petroleum jelly for soothing the given area.[9]
10. Mentholated Salve
Mentholated salve is easily available as an OTC or Over-The-Counter medicine at pharmacies. Place a small dab under the child’s nose. The eucalyptus, menthol and camphor present in the salve open up the breathing passages, and also provide relief from the irritated nose.[10]
11. Upright Sleep
Let your child sleep in an upright position. You can try an extra pillow for the purpose. The posture will provide for smoother breathing.[11]
12. Nasal Decongestant Spray
Nose hose provides for cleaning of nose. Let your child blow the nose a number of times during the day, so that the bacteria inside the mucous does not a cause infection. You can use the nasal decongestant spray as well. It will loosen up the mucosa so that the child can blow easily, without being effected from any discomfort.[12]
