Saline solutions for children's inhalations ~ Faculty clinics of Irkutsk State Medical University

Procedures such as inhalations help in the treatment of respiratory diseases and their prevention. To carry them out, a nebulizer is usually used - a device in which a liquid medicine becomes an aerosol. Once in the child’s body, this aerosol affects the respiratory system and speeds up recovery. One of the most common medications used for therapeutic and prophylactic inhalations is saline solution.

Inhalations for newborns for cough and runny nose

Respiratory diseases can affect a person at any age. Such diseases are especially dangerous for the youngest children, whose immune defense is in the formative stage. Inhalation of infants with a nebulizer comes to the rescue in these situations. The procedure can be carried out even for newborn babies; there are no obstacles to this. For infants, the accuracy of the diagnosis is important. A child at this age cannot yet say for himself what problems he has.

What benefits do inhalations bring to newborns?

Immunity develops in a child closer to the age of three, so until this time it is worth paying increased attention to health. Inhalation is becoming the optimal method of treatment because it is safer than other methods of therapy. An example is the use of a spray that can cause swelling of the mucous membrane.

There are restrictions on the use of some medicines. This influences the formation of the course of treatment.

The procedure has the following advantages:

moisturizing mucous membranes (important if they are dry), disappearance of sore throat;
reducing the density of sputum, due to which it is eliminated faster;
the effect of the medicine on the source of the disease, this leads to an increase in its effectiveness;
elimination of mucus and pathogens from the respiratory tract.

Each inhalation leads to a noticeable improvement. This makes it easier to use inhalers, and the child understands their beneficial effects. In therapeutic terms, the benefits are enormous. In addition to fighting the disease, damaged tissues are restored, mucus is removed, and the respiratory tract is cleansed.

How to properly inhale a baby

Inhalation can be performed using an inhaler or nebulizer. The devices differ according to the type of medicine used. The inhaler is used with aerosolized medications. If the medicine is in liquid form, you need to use a nebulizer, it will bring the medicine into a form suitable for injection.

You can choose your own treatment method only for mild rhinitis; in other cases, consultation with a doctor is required.

The procedure requires caution. An infant is not yet able to hold his head up, but if certain rules are followed, he will understand what is required of him. Parents need to know how to carry out the procedure correctly. When breastfeeding, there are specifics to the use of nebulizers.

When coughing

The procedure only seems simple at first. A detailed study leads to questions, the answers to which can be found in this article. Cough inhalation for infants is carried out in the following sequence:

the medicine is placed in a special cup;
the mask is applied so that it fits tightly to the face;
the child must be calm so that breathing is measured;
It is recommended to captivate the baby with a story or fairy tale.

For what kind of runny nose should you use a nebulizer?

Nebulizer inhalations moisturize the nasal mucosa and facilitate the removal of mucus

A nebulizer is a convenient but expensive device for treating diseases of the respiratory system. Its advantages - economical use of the drug, ease of use - are balanced by a serious disadvantage - the cost of the nebulizer itself and drugs for it. Not every patient will decide to buy such a product, so the doctor prescribes it strictly according to indications.

A nebulizer for a runny nose is used in cases where the process is prolonged and there is a risk of a secondary infection and the development of complications. If the patient already has a nebulizer (for example, he bought it earlier to treat other diseases), then the nebulizer can also be used for acute forms of the common cold, for which it is not advisable to buy such a device.

Indications for using a nebulizer for a runny nose:

Protracted or chronic course.
The presence of sinusitis or other types of sinusitis.
Secondary infection.
Runny nose due to other diseases of the respiratory system.
Seasonal allergic rhinitis.

Depending on the indications, the mode of use of the nebulizer also changes. The products used in it soften the crusts, moisturize the mucous membrane, and reduce the risk of damage. In addition, this dosage form allows the active substance to be distributed evenly and delivered to those areas of the nasal cavity that are inaccessible for treatment with nasal drops or sprays.

The best nebulizer medications for the common cold, their effect

Inhalation with a nebulizer ensures the full effect of drugs on the nasal mucosa

The nebulizer allows you to use various medicinal solutions. The principle of operation of the device is that a small amount of solution is sprayed into a tiny suspension, which the patient inhales.

A special tube or mask for these purposes allows you to direct the air flow strictly into the patient’s lungs. This ensures extremely economical consumption and minimal loss of the active substance.

Most used drugs:

Each of these drugs is prescribed for a specific purpose:

Interferon has antiviral activity. This is a substance that is produced naturally in the human body as one of the defense mechanisms against the virus. Interferon drugs help stop the development of a viral infection.
Tonsilgon, Furacilin, Chlorophyllipt have antiseptic properties. They are prescribed to prevent the development of infection, as well as to relieve inflammation in the nasal cavity and sinuses.

To ensure an antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect, alcohol tinctures of medicinal herbs are used - chamomile, calendula, sage and others. Propolis tincture has become very popular.

Inhalation with a nebulizer for a runny nose with saline solution

Inhalations with saline solution will help you get rid of runny nose symptoms faster

Saline solution in the form of inhalations is prescribed to moisturize the nose, soften the crusts and facilitate their removal. This drug has no side effects or contraindications if the patient can, in principle, use a nebulizer.

The product can be used independently or as a diluent (for example, for preparing Tonsilgon or diluting alcohol tinctures).

The benefits of saline solution for a runny nose:

Softens crusts and makes them easier to remove.
Moisturizes the mucous membrane during seasonal or vasomotor rhinitis.
Improves blood microcirculation in blood vessels.
Normalizes the tone of blood vessels in the nasal mucosa.

Inhalations with saline solution are useful for any type of runny nose. They are most effective in cases where the patient suffers from vasomotor rhinitis caused by excessive use of vasoconstrictor drops. Such inhalations can also be used to prevent such diseases.

Medicines for inhalation

The prescription of medications is carried out by a doctor; an independent choice may turn out to be erroneous, which will only lead to complications. Certain medications can provoke an allergic reaction. Read the warnings on the packaging carefully. In controversial situations, seek advice from specialists.

The following medications for inhalation are very popular:

Ambrobene - mucolytic and expectorant effect;
Berodual - helps well with any problems with the bronchi;
Ventolin is distinguished by its versatility of use.

Each drug has its own scope of application. Improper use is fraught with dangerous consequences and can make the situation worse.

Medicines for inhalation are varied. A large selection of medications becomes a favorable factor for caring for a child’s health.

With saline solution

Some medications for inhalation must be diluted with saline solution. These include Lazolvan, Pulmicort and other popular brands. Stirring with saline solution is carried out according to the instructions that come with the medication. This rule is related to the specifics of the substances used. We also have to take into account the characteristics of the child’s body.

Before use, you should familiarize yourself with the contraindications. Lazolvan stands out compared to other drugs; it has virtually no negative effects. The only peculiarity of how to give inhalations to a baby is the correct dilution with saline solution.

Contraindications to the procedure

Inhalation is the best way to combat diseases of the respiratory system in a child, but this method of therapy cannot always be used. Before giving inhalation to a newborn, you need to make sure that nothing interferes with its implementation.

In infancy, children's health is precarious and can easily be thrown out of balance.

The need for inhalation procedures does not replace compliance with instructions. It is better not to carry out inhalation than to worsen the health of infants because of it. The procedure cannot be done in the following cases:

body temperature exceeds 37 degrees;
the child has blood running from the nose;
problems with the heart and blood vessels (even with minor disruptions to the functioning of these organs);
allergy to substances contained in the medication.

Before starting the procedure, the child must be calm. If he cries or is afraid of something, it is better to postpone inhalation.

Contraindications and adverse reactions

Sodium chloride has contraindications that you should familiarize yourself with before starting treatment. Saline solution should not be taken if:

swelling of the respiratory organs;

serious heart disease;

lack of calcium in the body;

excessive fluid content outside the cell;

concurrent use of corticosteroids.

In most cases, sodium chloride is well tolerated by patients. But if you exceed the permissible doses or use the solution for a very long time, adverse reactions may occur:

deterioration of the nervous system, which is manifested by anxiety, restlessness, weakness, dizziness, headaches, severe sweating;

failure of the digestive system, which leads to vomiting, nausea, and indigestion;

hormonal imbalance, menstrual irregularities;

a sharp drop in potassium levels in the blood;

failure of the cardiovascular system, heart rate increases, blood pressure increases;

If even one undesirable reaction occurs, you should immediately stop using the saline solution and consult a doctor. The specialist will assess the patient’s condition and, if necessary, provide medical assistance to eliminate the negative effects.

Before use, you should also consult a doctor who can determine the appropriate treatment system to prevent overdose. If necessary, urine and blood tests are performed.

Everyone knows that today it is very difficult to do without inhalation via a nebulizer. A mandatory component of any inhalation drug is saline solution or sodium chloride. In other words, saline solution for a nebulizer is a unique solvent for all times.

From a scientific point of view, physiological is a solution whose osmotic pressure is equal to the osmotic pressure of human blood. Based on the treatment goals, saline solutions are different. The simplest of all is a 0.9% aqueous solution of sodium chloride. As a matter of fact, it is used for a nebulizer.

Choosing a nebulizer for a baby

The purchase of a nebulizer should be discussed with your pediatrician. To combat a simple cold, a compression nebulizer will be sufficient; there is no point in purchasing an inhaler.

The following rules can be distinguished:

try not to use a nebulizer for newborns; it is suitable for older children;
If you have chronic diseases, ultrasound equipment is suitable;
If your child reacts sharply to loud sounds, buy devices that operate quietly. The accompanying documentation indicates the level of noise emitted.

Inhalations during breastfeeding

When breastfeeding (BF), you should use certain therapeutic procedures with caution. There are a number of negative factors associated with inhalation. Some of them relate directly to lactation and breastfeeding, the other part is related to the young age of the child. Unfamiliar things can frighten a baby, so it takes a lot of effort to make him feel safe.

If you have any doubts about the advisability of a treatment procedure, you should consult a specialist.

For dry cough, inhalation is an effective treatment, but it may interfere with breastfeeding. When feeding, many substances enter the body, which sometimes creates good soil for the proliferation of pathogenic bacteria. During lactation, the use of nebulizers is allowed in exceptional cases.

Saline solutions for children's inhalations

When to use

Sodium chloride solution has been successfully used:

at the time of surgery and after surgery to maintain plasma volume;

when the body is dehydrated, which is caused by various diseases;

for severe bleeding, severe burns and dispensation to maintain plasma volume;

to reduce intoxication when a dangerous infection enters the body;

for washing eyes during inflammatory and infectious processes, allergies and injuries;

for rinsing the nose during colds;

for inhalation for respiratory diseases;

for dissolving different drugs when used together for injection.

How to cook it yourself?

When planning to make saline solution at home, you can take pure table salt, preferably finely ground (for better dissolution).

Take one liter of warm boiled filtered water for a heaped teaspoon of salt. After thoroughly mixing the salt in water, this solution can be stored for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.

Before inhalation with such a homemade saline solution, it should be warmed to room temperature.
Remember that such a solution is unsterile, so during inhalation, not only water and salt, but also microbes will enter the respiratory tract. Therefore, the pharmacy version of saline solution is more preferable, especially since its cost is low.
Instead of saline solution for inhalation, you can use alkaline mineral waters.

Methods of application

Subcutaneous and intravenous administration

In medicine it is now difficult to do without the use of saline solution. It is necessary when administering medications by drip and injection, since any concentrated and powdered drug must be dissolved in saline before use.

It also allows you to preserve plasma volume and maintain water-salt balance. Effective during poisoning, severe swelling, for diluting thick blood.

The solution is most often introduced into the body through an IV or subcutaneous injection. Before administration, you need to warm the solution to 36-38 degrees.

When injecting, it is worth taking into account the characteristics of the patient’s body, his age, weight, amount of lost fluid and missing sodium and chlorine.

The average person needs 500 ml of sodium per day. This is the volume that needs to be entered. If a lot of fluid is lost or severe intoxication is noted, then you can increase it to 3000 ml per day.

For a 1 kg child you need 20-80 ml.

Only a sterile solution is suitable for subcutaneous and intravenous administration.

For rinsing the nasopharynx

Saline solution is considered an inexpensive remedy that is very effective. Sodium chloride helps flush the nasopharynx during colds. After the first use, you can notice a significant improvement in your condition, your nose is cleared of mucus and your runny nose disappears. Washing can be done for allergic rhinitis, to prevent inflammatory processes.

The product is allowed to be used by pregnant and breastfeeding women. It can also be given to infants when taking other medications could be harmful.

The advantage of the solution is that after use the nasal mucosa does not dry out or become injured. You can rinse the nasopharynx several times a day; there are no restrictions on the frequency of use.

The solution can be easily prepared independently at home. To do this you need about 10 g of table salt and 1 liter of boiled water. Strain the solution through cheesecloth and drip it into your nose. It is non-sterile and can be given to children from 3 years old.

To cleanse the stomach and intestines

The solution is effective for severe poisoning. It is used for rectal enemas to stimulate bowel movements. In this case, you will need 3 liters of 9% solution per day. Before use, you need to warm the solution to 36-37 degrees so as not to cause intestinal irritation. An unsterilized solution will do.

It is also used for food poisoning for gastric lavage. Sodium chloride solution is drunk in small sips, after which you need to induce vomiting yourself. For this you only need a sterile solution.

Indications

The use of saline solution for inhalation is indicated for:

Runny nose.
Throat diseases.
Diseases of the bronchi and lungs.
ARVI.
Adenoids.

The main principle of the influence of such inhalations on the child’s body is to maximize the hydration of the respiratory tract. This improves mucus production, eliminating dry cough, and also speeds up the removal of phlegm.

Are there any contraindications?

You should not breathe saline solution or other drugs diluted with saline solution if you have an elevated body temperature, a tendency to nosebleeds, or otitis media.

If a child has a runny nose with purulent discharge, the procedure may lead to a worsening of the disease. In addition, inhalations with saline solution are not recommended for violations of water-salt balance and heart failure.

For information about what you need to know when performing inhalations, watch the video of the Union of Pediatricians of Russia.

Sodium chloride - what is it?

Therapeutic saline solution is considered an excellent conductor of electricity. Thanks to it, the water-electrolyte and alkaline balance is maintained.

The preparation of saline solution is quite simple - add table salt little by little to distilled water until the required concentration is obtained. The main thing is to introduce the salt in portions so that it completely dissolves, so that a precipitate does not form.

In some cases, the body may not have enough sodium chloride. Its deficiency can be caused by:

large loss of fluid;

gastrointestinal tract infection;

Adding Other Medicines

In addition to procedures with saline only, children are often prescribed other therapeutic inhalations. In this case, saline solution is used to dilute other medicinal drugs.

In combination with saline solution for nebulizer inhalations, use:

Bronchodilators (Atrovent, Berodual, Berotek and others) - their use is indicated for bronchial asthma and other diseases in which there is bronchospasm.
Mucolytics (ACC injection, Ambrobene, Mucaltin, Lazolvan and others) are prescribed for coughs in order to make it productive and facilitate expectoration of sputum.
Antiseptics (Miramistin, Chlorophyllipt, Dioxidin, Furacilin) - recommended for cleansing mucous membranes.
Antibiotics (Gentamicin, Fluimucil) - indicated for bacterial infections of the respiratory tract.
Antitussives (Tussamag, Pertussin) - help get rid of unproductive cough.
Anti-inflammatory drugs (Pulmicort, Cromohexal, Rotocan and others) are indicated to reduce swelling of the mucous membrane and treat inflammation, especially of an allergic nature.

Video

How much sodium chloride to fill

Depending on the purpose of use and the composition of the mixture when inhaled through a nebulizer, the dosage for an adult can vary from 5 ml to 15 ml. All proportions should be determined only by a specialist.

But let's look at how much saline to pour into the nebulizer in the most common cases. If we are talking about a common runny nose, then sodium chloride is quite enough.

For dry coughs, drugs such as Pulmicort are used; for wet coughs, Lazolvan is best. Doctors often prescribe Bioparox. In order for the medicinal drug to work, its temperature must sometimes be raised to 50°. But this only applies to adults.

How much saline solution to pour into a nebulizer for a child

The dosage of saline solution for a nebulizer when preparing a “children’s medicine” depends on the type of disease, the age of the child, and physiological characteristics. All proportions must be drawn up by a specialist.

There are several features that are necessary for the correct composition of the inhalation mixture.

For a normal runny nose, the size of the sprayed particles should be 10 microns or more.
To treat pharyngitis, solutions are used whose particles are 5-10 microns.
For laryngitis and tracheitis, inhalation mixtures have a particle size of 5 microns, no more.
For the treatment of bronchial asthma, experts recommend a size of 2-5 microns, and for pneumonia 0.5-2 microns.

Depending on the above, it will depend on how much saline solution to pour into the nebulizer for the child. All manipulations are carried out an hour before or after meals.

In the table you can see examples of the simplest solutions, but ONLY a DOCTOR can give permission for their use.

Action	Age	Composition for one procedure	Number of times per day
Bronchodilator Berodual	Up to 6 years	10 drops + 3 ml saline solution	3
6-12 years	20 drops + 3 ml saline solution	4
12 years or more	40 drops + 3 ml saline solution	4
Lazolvan expectorant	Up to 2 years	1 ml + 1 ml saline	2
2-6 years	2 ml + 2 ml saline	2
6 years or more	3 ml + 3 ml saline	2

The course of treatment, as a rule, does not exceed five days, but everything is individual . Before purchasing this or that medicine, read the instructions carefully and be sure to consult a doctor (for children, a pediatrician), since there are drugs that are PROHIBITED to be used in ultrasonic nebulizers.

Instructions for use, duration and frequency

For inhalation with saline, both a steam inhaler and any type of nebulizer are used. It is important to remember that if you decide to use a steam inhaler for the procedure, you will only affect the upper respiratory tract. Saline solution can enter the bronchi and alveoli only with the help of a nebulizer. Before the procedure, the saline solution is heated.

Features of inhalation with saline at different ages:

Source

How to carry out procedures

Inhalations are done with a nebulizer - a special device that turns the medicine into an aerosol that can penetrate even the most inaccessible places. However, young children may be afraid, so they need to be prepared for the upcoming process.

To avoid injury, you must follow the recommendations:

The procedure is not carried out after eating: you need to wait a certain time, ideally 30-40 minutes;
do not inhale at high temperatures (this is written in the instructions);
do not put oil-based solutions into the nebulizer;
if the infection is concentrated in the upper respiratory tract, you can breathe through the nose, if at the middle level - through the mouth, and for the lower respiratory tract there is a special tube;
You need to read the instructions and consult a doctor - then the treatment will be as effective as possible.

The frequency of procedures depends on age and severity of the disease. Small children should not inhale more than twice a day. It is important not to exceed the dosage, because then the treatment will not have an effect.

Such inhalations are good for coughs, runny nose and other diseases. For treatment to be effective, complex therapy is usually carried out - for example, antibiotics and vasoconstrictors are prescribed.