Children's nasal aspirators (snot suckers)

Young parents often don’t know how to suck the baby’s snot and are very worried about this.

Children under two or three years old do not yet know how to blow their nose on their own, and accumulated mucus must be removed from the nasal passages.

Otherwise, the baby will not be able to breathe normally, will become capricious, and will not eat well.

The ideal way to solve the problem of how to suck out snot from a child is a nozzle ejector (nasal aspirator).

Every family should have this device in their home medicine cabinet. And you need to take care of this even before discharge from the maternity hospital.

Nozzle ejector for a newborn: secrets of selection and proper use

Unfortunately, a runny nose in infants is quite common. However, the main problem with this condition is that newborn babies do not yet know how to blow their nose or breathe through their mouths like adults. Therefore, any disease that is accompanied by a runny nose seriously worsens the condition of such a child, because he cannot breathe, sleep, eat normally, and this, in turn, leads to weight loss . That is why many pediatricians recommend having a special device in the children's first aid kit - a nozzle ejector, or aspirator.

How to choose the right nozzle pump for a newborn?

Any aspirator for newborns is, in fact, an ordinary nozzle suction device. The principle of operation of such a device is that it creates negative pressure, thanks to which it is possible to quickly and painlessly clear the baby’s nose of mucus and crusts.

Today you can find many types of aspirators on sale - syringes, electronic, vacuum, mechanical and other devices . Therefore, parents often have many questions about choosing a nozzle ejector for their baby.

Operation of the device

You can suck out snot using a special device called a nasal aspirator. Using such a device, you can clean a child’s nose, remove substances that irritate its mucous membrane, which caused a runny nose. A nasal aspirator allows you to effectively clean the nose without damaging the mucous membrane, which immediately improves the baby's breathing, condition and well-being. Parents who use such a suction device for formed and accumulated mucus note their child’s rapid recovery from colds.

Is a nozzle pump necessary for a newborn?

Whether or not a nozzle ejector is needed for a newborn baby, each parent must decide for himself. You can suck out the nozzles with your mouth, as our grandmothers did, but for some people it will not be pleasant to do this, and for them, we would recommend purchasing an aspirator . Your baby may or may not get rhinitis, and you shouldn’t buy an aspirator in reserve , in case your baby never gets rhinitis.

The appearance of signs of rhinitis in a newborn child should be a signal for parents to immediately consult a doctor. The accumulation of mucus in the nasal passages leads to impaired absorption, which can lead to loss of the ability to breathe and eat normally . In addition, breathing disorders provoke problems with gas exchange, and since the baby’s body is very sensitive to a lack of oxygen, even a slight runny nose needs to be treated.

The difficulty of treating rhinitis in newborns is that most medications are contraindicated for them . You should be especially careful with vasoconstrictor drops.

You also need to take into account that children under 3-4 years old do not know how to blow their nose correctly, and therefore all attempts to independently eliminate discharge can lead to the development of otitis media. To remove mucus accumulated in the nasal passages, you can use a nasal aspirator - this device is considered the most effective and safe means for eliminating liquid secretions.

What should you use an aspirator for?

The type of snot and its origin may vary, but there are a number of reasons why you should suck it out:

They prevent the baby from breathing, especially during feeding or sleep.
When too much mucus accumulates, especially if it turns greenish or yellowish, there is a risk of complications. Regular-looking snot can turn into rhinitis, sinusitis and even otitis media. The auditory tube in babies is still very wide and short, which means the distance between the nasal passage and the middle ear is minimal.
When your nose is clogged, you have to breathe through your mouth, and this puts your respiratory system at risk. A direct path opens for bacteria and there is a danger of hypothermia of the pharynx, and there it is not far from general inflammation.

READ ALSO: what to do if a child’s nose cannot breathe due to congestion? A nozzle ejector for newborns operates using a vacuum, which is created due to mechanical or electrical action. Devices can vary in safety and convenience, as well as in drive principle and appearance.

How to prepare a child's nose before suctioning snot?

Before you begin to clear mucus from your child’s nose, you need to rinse it with saline. It is important to remember that such substances should be instilled in newborn babies and not poured into them. Nasal sprays are strictly contraindicated for infants.

Important to remember!!! While rinsing the child's nose, the child must be held upright to prevent excessive amounts of solution from entering the nose. The danger of this condition lies in the threat of respiratory arrest due to a reflex spasm of the larynx.

For rinsing the nose of newborn babies, preparations such as Marimer, Aquamaris, and Salin are suitable. In the absence of allergic reactions, you can use decoctions of medicinal plants - chamomile, calendula, sage. You can easily prepare a saline solution yourself - to do this, dissolve a teaspoon of salt in a liter of boiled water.

Is it necessary to clean your baby's nose?

There is a clear and definite answer to this question – yes! By the age of three, children usually cope with the process of clearing snot from their nose on their own, but the younger the baby is, the more helpless he is and the more serious the consequences of neglecting this mandatory procedure can be. A simple runny nose, which does not pose any threat to an adult, in the absence of proper treatment can transform into sinusitis, otitis media and chronic rhinitis in a relatively short time. When pathogenic mucus accumulates in the nasal passages, the child feels discomfort, becomes restless, and refuses to eat or sleep. Most of the time the baby is in a lying position, given the short wide paths between the ears, nose and throat, a lying position promotes the unhindered passage of accumulated mucus between the respiratory tract and the development of pharyngitis and cough, so snot in children must be eliminated.

How to use a nozzle ejector for newborns?

To remove mucus from your baby's nose, you can use any type of aspirator . However, in order not to harm the child, you must carefully read the instructions and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Before each use of the aspirator, it should be disinfected and thoroughly cleaned of mucus . In addition, it is important to consider that the mucous membrane of the baby’s nose is very sensitive, and therefore can be easily injured. This is why it is so important to adhere to safety measures when removing snot. If you are afraid to do it yourself for the first time, you can ask your nurse for help.

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Contraindications for use

Before purchasing an aspirator, be sure to consult an ENT specialist about existing diseases for which the use of these devices is not permitted. You should absolutely not use them if:

the child has regular nosebleeds,
there are tumor formations in the nose, sinuses or nasopharynx,
absolute obstruction of the nasal passages.

INTERESTING: how to rinse a child’s nose at home?

Pediatrician of the 2nd category, allergist-immunologist, graduated from the Belarusian State Medical University of the Federal Agency for Health and Social Development. More details », Rate this article: (1 rated 5.00 out of 5) Loading...Share with friends!

Types and types of nozzle ejectors for a newborn: which nozzle ejector is better to choose for the home?

There are quite a few types of aspirators, each of which has certain advantages and disadvantages:

photo nozzle ejector syringe

Nozzle ejector-syringe . This device is a regular rubber bulb. It usually consists of an enema and a syringe equipped with a silicone tip. To use such an aspirator, the bulb and tip should be boiled and then cooled to room temperature. Then lubricate the tip with cream and insert it into the child’s nose. Gently relax your fingers, making sure that the secretions fall into the bulb.

The main advantage of such a device is its affordability - on average, such a device costs about 30-50 rubles. Many manufacturers produce such pears in the form of animal figures, which, of course, will interest the baby.

The disadvantages of such aspirators include low efficiency and a high probability of injury to the nasal mucosa. In addition, the use of such a nozzle suction does not make it possible to evaluate the results of cleansing.

Mechanical nozzle ejector . In this case, the removal of mucous secretions from the baby’s nose occurs with the help of the mother’s lungs. To do this, the mouthpiece of the device is inserted into the child's nostril, and his mother draws in air. As a result, the mucus enters the transparent reservoir. It must be said that this method is considered more effective and less traumatic.

The main advantages of a mechanical aspirator include its low cost - such a device can be purchased for 150-200 rubles. In addition, it is quite durable and allows you to evaluate the results of suction.

At the same time, there are certain disadvantages of such a device: first of all, it cannot be called hygienic, and in addition, it needs periodic replacement of filters and attachments.

Photo mechanical nozzle ejector

photo Electronic nozzle ejector

Electronic nozzle ejector . The principle of operation of such a device is that you need to insert a tip with a tube into the baby’s nose, and then press the button. Quite often, in addition to the suction function, such an aspirator helps to moisturize and rinse the nasal cavities.

The main advantages of electronic aspirators include ease and safety of use. In addition, thanks to continuous suction, the procedure can be carried out very quickly. The disadvantages of the electronic aspirator include fragility and high cost. The approximate price of such a nozzle pump is about 1,500 rubles.

photo vacuum nozzle ejector

Vacuum nozzle pump . This is a relatively new device that functions by connecting to a vacuum cleaner. Before using such a device, it is necessary to moisten the nasal cavity. The aspirator has a manifold flask with three compartments that help reduce air pressure to a safe level.

The main advantages of a vacuum nozzle ejector include the speed of the procedure, hygiene, durability and safety of the device. At the same time, the disadvantage of such an aspirator can be its relatively high cost - such devices cost about 1,300 rubles. In addition, the child may be frightened by the noise of the vacuum cleaner.

photo Japanese nozzle sucker

Japanese nozzle pump . This device consists of two tubes, which helps prevent snot from getting into the mother’s mouth. In order to remove secretions, you need to press the tip to the child’s nose and begin to suck slowly, controlling the force. Such a device costs about 600 rubles and is highly effective. And thanks to the presence of a special container in which mucus accumulates, you can monitor the effectiveness of the procedure.

DIY nozzle suction . To make this device yourself, you need to purchase a dropper system, cut the tube to the required length and connect it to a plastic nozzle, which can be taken from a bulb aspirator. In this way, you can save money and get a device that is in no way inferior in efficiency to store-bought counterparts.

Rules for using the aspirator

Different types of nozzle ejectors require different operating conditions and appropriate preparation. All requirements are set out in the instructions that come with the unit. Let us list the main principles of suctioning mucus using nozzle ejectors:

The child should be laid on his back or his head slightly tilted back, for which a towel rolled into a roll is used. A saline solution should be dropped into the nose to soften the mucus. Instead of saline solution, you can use the following drugs: Marimer, Salin or Humer, then wait 15 seconds.
When using a manual aspirator in the form of a pear, squeeze the rubber part with your hand, and then carefully insert the tip into the nasal passage. The free nostril should be pressed slightly. Then you need to slowly unclench your hand, the rest of the injected solution is absorbed along with the snot. Remove the pear and squeeze out the mucus onto a napkin. Wipe the nozzle and start treating the second nostril.
Before use, the aspirator with vacuum must be assembled by connecting the tip and two flasks. The conical flask is connected to the hose, after which the vacuum cleaner can be turned on. The power of the nozzle pump is regulated using a hole in the cylindrical flask. Depending on the need, it is opened or closed. There is no need to cover the other nostril. The vacuum cleaner is turned off, and then the aspirator is removed.
When using a vacuum aspirator in manual mode, remove the conical tip. The freed end serves as an opening for mucus suction. The device must be disinfected as follows: remove the flask, wash all parts, and sterilize the tip itself.
When using the electric format of the nasal aspirator, you should put on the silicone nozzle and then insert it into the nostril. The device is turned on, and the second nostril is covered with a finger. The baby does not have to be laid down; a sitting position is possible for the procedure.

Precautions when using a nozzle ejector for a newborn

When used correctly, the nozzle ejector is completely safe for the child. However, during treatment, situations sometimes arise when medical assistance is required. Before using the nozzle pump for the first time, you must check the condition of the tip. If during operation you damage the nasal mucosa and the baby starts bleeding, you need to tilt his head and press the damaged part of the nose to the septum.

When preparing a child for the nasal cleansing procedure, you need to instill him with saline solution. To prevent this substance from getting into the baby’s larynx and pharynx, it is very important to strictly dose its amount. In addition, the child should be held upright.

Important to remember!!! It is necessary to consult a doctor if symptoms of a runny nose are observed in a child of the first year of life. The severity of the condition in such patients can only be assessed by a qualified specialist.

When is it strictly prohibited to use a nozzle ejector for a newborn?

You need to use an aspirator very carefully in children who have too narrow nasal passages , since the likelihood of injury to the mucous membrane increases many times over. In addition, you should be careful about the procedure if the child is highly active . Any careless movement by an adult or child can cause unpleasant consequences and injuries. Sometimes the child even develops nosebleeds.

In addition, many pediatricians do not recommend using improvised means to remove snot. It is much safer to use aspirators specially designed for this purpose, which have smooth, soft edges and limiters that prevent deep penetration into the nasal passages. You should also not forget about a sense of proportion - you should not carry out the procedure if the child is capricious or fidgeting.

A nasal aspirator can confidently be called an indispensable device that should be present in every first aid kit. Thanks to this device, you can easily and painlessly clear mucus from your baby’s nose. To ensure safe use of the aspirator, it is very important to study the instructions and strictly follow all the manufacturer’s instructions.

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Precautionary measures

In their practice, pediatricians sometimes recommend the use of additional means for sucking out snot, but do not forget to warn parents to be as attentive and careful as possible. When using a nasal aspirator, there is a danger of harming the baby:

it is possible to injure the inner surface of the nose due to the fact that the baby may twitch during the procedure (this happens when using any type of device),
if you use the vacuum device carelessly, the nozzle can stick to the mucous membrane and lead to its damage, even bleeding,
Do not leave the tip in the spout, and avoid inserting too deeply.

The aspirator should have soft edges and stops to prevent the nozzle from being inserted too deeply. When carrying out the procedure, it is important to be calm and confident, while at the same time not forgetting about a sense of proportion.

We should not forget that liquid snot flows out on its own. The most important thing is not to let them dry out. Excessively thick snot will not respond to any type of device. Use aspirators only when absolutely necessary; the rest of the time, try to maintain a comfortable temperature and humidity in the room. Use special solutions to thin mucus.

READ ALSO: what does Komarovsky say about what to do if a newborn has snot?

Nozzle ejector reviews

Irina, St. Petersburg : I suffered with snot for a long time - nothing helped. Then we finally decided to purchase a nozzle ejector. We chose the baby vac and are very pleased - it is an effective and easy-to-use device. I think that for children 2-5 years old this is simply an irreplaceable thing. Cleans efficiently and prevents the development of complications. Marina, Kemerovo : My son often had a runny nose, we tried many remedies, but nothing gave the desired results. We even specially bought an Otrivin Baby nozzle ejector to remove mucus. But it seems to me that it is better not to use an aspirator, because I noticed that the more you clean your nose, the more mucus is released. To combat a runny nose, I washed my nose with saline solution, and then used a turunda to remove the snot. Literally 3-4 days after such manipulations, the snot disappeared.

Svetlana, Yaroslavl : We use the baby vac aspirator - we are very pleased with the result. Before this, we tried many models, but nothing helped - the child was scared, and the effectiveness was not pleasing. Compared to them, the baby vac sucks out snot so quickly that the child doesn’t even have time to get scared. A real salvation for mothers whose children often get sick.

Yulia, Novosibirsk : The aspirator was not useful to us, and we tried quite a few types - both a rubber bulb and a mechanical one, but the child only got scared and cried, and the results were not encouraging. In general, to treat a runny nose, we use only saline solution and cleansing the nose with cotton wool.

Elizaveta, Kiev : We used a Japanese pigeon aspirator. I can say with confidence that this is an indispensable item in a child's first aid kit. Thanks to this device, we have easily cured more than one runny nose. And the advantages of such a nozzle ejector are difficult to overestimate - easy to use and maintain and very effective.

Natalya, Moscow : When we have a runny nose, we always use the Otrivin aspirator - it’s a wonderful thing. Before the procedure, I thoroughly rinse the nose with aquamaris, and then clean it with an aspirator. The baby’s condition improves very quickly after this procedure, so I advise everyone to use this device.

Maria, Yaroslavl : It seems to me that it is quite possible to do without an aspirator. Cleaning the nose with this device can hardly be called very pleasant for both mother and child. We had an Ariana snot pump, but my son was afraid of this procedure, so we simply dropped saline solution into his nose, and the snot went away quite quickly.

How to distinguish pathological discharge

The nasal cavity of all healthy people is covered with a layer of mucus. This prevents bacteria from entering the body. Mucus protects the respiratory system and purifies the air that a person inhales. It has a characteristic shade: slightly whitish color.

Since infants are often in a horizontal position, the baby's mucus can block the passages in the nasopharynx and form crusts, which cause trouble. This problem can be easily solved: you need to hold the child in your arms more often.

However, young children often have abnormal discharge. They can be caused by various factors: allergies, inflammatory processes. Such discharge has a greenish or yellowish tint and a liquid consistency. In severe cases, they flow profusely from the nose. This is a bad sign. The baby needs treatment, and the mucus needs to be sucked out. Pathological discharge must be dealt with immediately.

Otherwise, the baby may experience:

crying, whims, screams and irritability;
difficult breathing, frequent and deep sighs. This is facilitated by a clogged nasopharynx;
acute respiratory diseases that lead to chronic sinusitis, otitis. Often people then suffer with them all their lives;
the baby sleeps poorly and refuses to eat;
There is discharge from the nose.

Such phenomena cannot be ignored; the snot must be removed as soon as possible. Fortunately, you can use an aspirator to suck out the discharge very quickly. Usually the child resists at first because he is not yet accustomed to such procedures. But with regular use of the device, the baby will behave calmer.

Such products have many advantages: they quickly remove all mucus and secretions from the nasopharynx. At the same time, they are harmless and painless. They are hygienic if washed after each use. Using an aspirator, you can not only get rid of snot, but also clean the entire nasal passage.

What the aspirator removes from the nose cannot get back. This is another advantage of such a device. Electric nozzle ejectors simplify the procedure as much as possible: just press a button and the product will start working. Replaceable filters provide additional safety. Even mom can't get infected.

It is better to use an aspirator, but if you don’t have one at home, a regular medical syringe without a needle will also help. However, it is not always convenient, as it can injure the baby’s delicate skin. If mucus is secreted abundantly, it is better to use a nozzle suction. You can consult a doctor who will perform this procedure himself.

Constant prevention will help minimize the possibility of pathological discharge.

To do this you need:

keep the room clean and fresh. Wet cleaning should be done as often as possible. There should be no dust or dirt. It is advisable to ventilate the rooms more often;
Tea tree essential oil helps to cope with such phenomena in a child. It is necessary to dilute two drops of oil in boiling water and leave it in the room;
special warming ointments for children also prevent the development of a runny nose in a small child. They can be purchased at the pharmacy.

If your baby’s snot does not go away, you should consult a doctor. He will prescribe treatment.

Good nasal breathing is very necessary for a child of the first year of life. Physiologically, a small nose is built in such a way that even a slight swelling of the adenoids or mucous membrane leads to the fact that it becomes difficult for the baby to breathe. Because of this, he constantly wakes up at night because mucus flows into his throat and irritates his diaphragm. A child who cannot breathe through his nose also has problems feeding. After all, he cannot suck the breast and breathe through his mouth at the same time. Therefore, during feeding, the baby is constantly interrupted, greedily inhales air, and gets angry that he cannot eat normally. All this leads to whims, crying and restlessness of the baby. And how parents worry when they see the child’s condition and cannot help him in any way. Well, they can’t blow their nose for the child, can they? In general, a baby will learn to get rid of mucus in the nose on his own only by the age of two, or even later. Until this time, parents must learn how to suck out the snot from their baby on their own.

Several decades ago, when there were no modern nasal aspirators on sale, young mothers had no choice but to suck out snot directly with their mouths. At the same time, there was a high probability of infection from the baby. And there wasn’t much that was pleasant about this method, you’ll agree. Modern products delight us with effective and safe devices with which we can free our children’s noses quickly and efficiently. So, let's look at the main types of nasal aspirators for infants.