A runny nose in a child: a harmless disease or serious consequences?


Children are often diagnosed with a runny nose or rhinitis, which is accompanied by the development of an inflammatory process in the mucous membrane of the nasal cavity. This pathological state of the body can be an independent illness, and also signal the progression of allergic and infectious diseases in the child.

Rhinitis often causes discomfort and discomfort, so parents are looking for all sorts of ways to eliminate this pathology. In order to understand how to quickly rid a child of snot, you need to understand the reasons for its development, as well as possible symptoms.

Advice from Dr. Komarovsky

The longer a child with a stuffy nose breathes through his mouth during influenza or ARVI, the higher the risk that not only the mucous secretions in the nose, but also in the bronchi and lungs will dry out.
To avoid bronchitis and pneumonia, which are the most common complications of respiratory viral infections, be sure to moisturize and liquefy. All methods are described above. If, after using certain drops in the nose, a child sneezes or his eyes water, you should not attribute these symptoms to an allergic reaction to the medication. These are normal manifestations of the immune fight against the virus; treatment should not be cancelled.

A runny nose doesn't always look classic. If a child’s snot flows not outward, but inward, along the back wall of the larynx, then the disease will be called nasopharyngitis. A doctor should treat him.

Any treatment with folk remedies can lead to serious complications, says Evgeny Komarovsky. All recipes offered by traditional healers are aimed at eliminating the amount of mucus. If you have a bacterial runny nose, you should not warm your nose, rinse it with warm solutions, or make compresses or inhalations. In case of allergic rhinitis, especially of unclear etiology, most medicinal plants that are used in alternative medicine pose a danger to an allergic child in themselves.

How to treat a runny nose in children, see the program of Dr. Komarovsky.

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What it is

Snot is generally easy to treat, so parents rarely have questions about what to do. Snot is especially easy to treat if it is just a mild cold, which in some cases even goes away on its own if you do nothing.

However, everything is not always as good as we would like. In some cases, snot torments a child for several weeks, but there is no way to get rid of it, and then the question arises of why this happens and, most importantly, what to do about it.

It is the baby’s snot that lasts for a long time that indicates that the runny nose has turned from a normal acute condition into a protracted condition.

Vasoconstrictor drops for children

Tsipromed

A special feature of these drops is the presence of an antibiotic in them, which allows not only to reduce inflammation, but also to remove all purulent masses. Use Tsipromed for purulent runny nose only in the presence of thick green or yellow discharge. To achieve the desired effect, the baby may be advised to take 2 drops up to 4 times a day; the exact dose should be checked with a doctor. Therapy lasts up to 10 days.

Lazolvan Rino

Lazolvan Rino

The drug is produced in the form of a spray, which shows a quick effect. It makes breathing easier within 3 minutes of use. To obtain a lasting result, you can use the drug 2 times a day, two doses in each nostril. The course of treatment is no more than 5 days.

Otrivin Baby

Suitable for use from the first year of life. Use the medication 1-2 drops in each nasal passage. The exact number of daily uses should be checked with your pediatrician, since their number depends on the age of the baby. Typically, Otrivin Baby should not be used more than three times a day. Additionally, Aquamaris saline solution should be used with drops. The duration of treatment is no more than 5 days.

Otrivin Baby

Diagnostics

When a child’s snot has been pouring for more than a week, it is necessary to start looking for the cause, for which a wide range of diagnostic measures are used.

Usually they start with laboratory diagnostic methods. At the same time, the number of leukocytes is assessed and the search for viral particles is carried out. Most often, a PCR reaction is used for this.

If it is believed that the pathogen is bacterial in nature, then the snot from the baby’s nose can be placed on a nutrient medium to find out whether there are pathogenic microorganisms.

Instrumental diagnostics are required:

  • rhinoscopy – allows you to assess the condition of the mucous membranes of the nasal cavity, the condition of the septum, carried out using two methods;
  • endoscopic rhinoscopy is a more modern and more expensive method, it is more informative than ordinary rhinoscopy, but is used quite rarely due to its high cost;
  • Diaphanoscopy is the simplest instrumental method in which the spaces of the sinuses are illuminated, determining whether there is thickening of the mucous membranes or a foreign object in the nasal cavity.

If a child’s snot continues for more than a week, it is important not to forget about differential diagnosis, since it is necessary to distinguish pathologies by reason in order to properly conduct therapy.

Use of vasoconstrictor drugs

To moisturize the nasal cavity and prevent mucus from drying out during a runny nose, you can instill physiologically concentrated saline solutions into children’s noses (1 teaspoon of table salt per 1 liter of boiled water), and herbal drops based on natural oils with the addition of pine essential components (for example, pinosol).

The main means used if a child has a severe runny nose are local vasoconstrictor drops. They can quickly ease nasal breathing and eliminate the feeling of nasal congestion. There are four situations in which the use of vasoconstrictor drugs in children is justified and necessary:

  • lack of nasal breathing;
  • a combination of complicated breathing through the nose and through the mouth (can be observed with coughing, wheezing, croup);
  • the inability to ensure that a child with a beginning and mild runny nose stays in a room with humidified and cool air;
  • partially difficult breathing through the nose in combination with high body temperature (above 38 °C).

When using vasoconstrictors, it is necessary to remember that addiction can develop to them; over time, they can cause vasoconstriction not only of the nasal mucosa, but also of the entire body, cause headaches, etc.

Therefore, when using them, it is important to do it as Komarovsky advises to treat a runny nose, namely:

  • do not use such medications for more than 7 days in a row and do not increase their dosage;
  • Monitor for side effects and consult a doctor immediately if necessary;
  • use for children only those vasoconstrictor drops that have children's dosages and are specifically intended for use in children;
  • Be sure to consult with a pediatrician about the use of vasoconstrictors in children under 2 years of age (since many of the active ingredients are contraindicated in any quantity in this case).

In general, it can be noted that the treatment of runny nose in children according to Komarovsky, based on the articles and lectures of this doctor, should induce in parents the desire, first of all, to take a consistent and logical approach to the treatment of the child. For this, a mandatory condition is a face-to-face consultation with a qualified pediatrician, who will help you understand the causes of a runny nose and avoid its possible complications.

Komarovsky has ambivalent views on vasoconstrictor drugs for the common cold. These medications, on the one hand, quickly and effectively rid the nasal cavity of mucus, on the other hand, eliminate only the symptoms, but not the cause of rhinitis. The principle of action of vasoconstrictor drugs is to reduce swelling of the mucous membranes of the nasal passages and reduce the formation of mucus. Dr. Komarovsky considers the best drugs for children to be:

  • Nazol,
  • Sanorin,
  • Otrivin,
  • Naphthyzin.

These are high-quality and effective drops and sprays; they do not give side effects if you follow the dosage prescribed in the instructions.

Parents who decide to treat their baby with vasoconstrictor medications should take into account the following points:

  • if the dosage specified in the instructions is exceeded, the child's nasal mucosa swells, sneezing intensifies, a burning sensation is felt in the nose, the oral cavity dries out, in severe cases, vision deteriorates, blood pressure increases, dizziness, tachycardia and insomnia occur;
  • the child’s body quickly gets used to any vasoconstrictor drugs, which is why it is necessary to increase the dosage, increasing the risk of side effects;
  • It is advisable to ask pharmacies for medicines developed specifically for children, containing active ingredients in low concentrations;
  • Before using the medicine, you must carefully read the instructions.

We recommend reading - recipes for complex nasal drops for a child.

Dr. Komarovsky has an extremely negative attitude towards treating children with antibiotic drugs. The use of antibiotics for a runny nose is both dangerous and useless because it:

  • does not get rid of a viral infection, which often affects young children;
  • does not help eliminate allergic rhinitis;
  • it itself can act as a strong allergen for the child’s body;
  • causes addiction to potent antibiotic medications.

What to do

When to see a doctor

You should take your child to a pediatrician or ENT specialist if:

  • A runny nose does not go away for more than 10 days.
  • The child's nose is constantly blocked, as a result of which the baby breathes only through his mouth.
  • The child's sense of smell has decreased or completely disappeared.
  • Thick yellow-green mucus discharges from the nose
  • The child complains of an itchy nose and headaches.
  • The baby is lethargic and sleeps poorly.

Survey

A child whose runny nose does not go away for 10 days or longer will be prescribed:

  • General blood test with determination of leukemia. Such an examination will help confirm a bacterial infection or the allergic nature of the disease.
  • Rhinoscopy . The doctor will examine the nasal cavity using a frontal reflector and a nasal speculum (for anterior rhinoscopy) or a nasopharyngeal speculum and a spatula (for posterior rhinoscopy). The examination will help to see the condition of the nasal septum and turbinates. If sinusitis is suspected, endoscopic rhinoscopy may be performed.
  • Examination of nasal discharge. The child can undergo a smear, PCR to detect viruses or bacteria, as well as bacterial culture to determine the sensitivity of the flora to antimicrobial drugs.
  • Diaphanoscopy . This type of examination of the paranasal sinuses using transillumination is now often prescribed instead of an X-ray examination. It is performed in a dark room to determine whether the paranasal sinuses conduct light. Normally, they let it through well, but with inflammation there will be a darkening.
  • If a runny nose in a baby in the first months of life turns out to be physiological, no specific treatment is required from the parents. You just need to create optimal conditions for breathing for the baby - clean the air, humidify it, maintain a comfortable air temperature.
  • In the treatment of viral rhinitis complicated by a bacterial infection, medications that contain antiseptics or antibiotics are used. They must be prescribed by a doctor, since such drugs, although they have a local effect, also have side effects. In the treatment of such prolonged rhinitis, Protargol, Dioxidin, Miramistin, Isofra, Polydexa and other drugs are used.
  • If the cause of a prolonged runny nose is an allergy, first of all you should exclude the influence of allergens on the child’s body. The doctor will also prescribe specific treatment using anti-inflammatory and antihistamines, for example, Zyrtec drops. In addition, children with such a runny nose are advised to moisturize the nose with saline or sea salt products.
  • In a situation where a long runny nose is caused by adenoids, the question of treatment tactics should be decided by the doctor. In some cases, conservative methods are sufficient, but sometimes surgery cannot be avoided.

Pediatric otolaryngologist I.V. will tell you in detail about treatment methods. Leskov:

The child has had clear snot for a week now, I put vasoconstrictors in him at night so that he sleeps normally until the morning, and during the day we just blow his nose. There are no other symptoms, he plays and walks and eats well. Should I see a doctor or will it go away on its own? I really don’t want to go to the city because of simple snot(

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Perhaps it's an allergy! At this time of year, all allergy sufferers have hay fever!

Describe more precisely the appearance and thickness of the snot and attach a photo. It is very important for us to know this!

Visit the Temple of Jehovah's Witnesses - they will help.

They wrote it correctly. A clear runny nose is a sign of hay fever. Need to see a doctor.

I need to visit the Adventists for 7 days, they cure a runny nose.

Or maybe the child has a hussar runny nose? Then go to the Kremlin doctors.

Related topics

see a doctor immediately! A friend’s child died this way.

How transparent are the boy's nozzles? Like a tear or like a spring icicle? If they are not so transparent, then it is difficult to advise anything at all..

Author, this is most likely allergic rhinitis. Take your child to an allergist. Such “little things” can become a problem over time.

Vasoconstrictor drops are used for no more than 5 days.

Well, they wrote and made diagnoses. Author, well, the child has a cold, it will pass. You are doing everything right, make sure that the snot does not turn yellow or green - then see a doctor.

A runny nose can be not only viral, but also allergic. Moreover, now everything is blooming, the grass is turning green, there may well be an allergy (And you don’t have to think that if there were no allergies before and the child is not allergic, then there won’t be an allergic runny nose. All this is nonsense, an allergy can manifest itself at any time and at any time place, even for supposedly non-allergic people. You will have to visit a doctor; based on the examination, the doctor will be able to answer the question of what kind of runny nose it is and how to treat it. Don’t get carried away with vasoconstrictors either, because their long-term use can lead to addiction and drug-induced rhinitis. Replace vasoconstrictors with sea ​​water, it is useful for any runny nose and will not cause addiction. If the runny nose is allergic, then antihistamines + sea water will be prescribed. If the runny nose is viral, then another treatment. In any case, you need to determine what kind of runny nose in order to treat it. You can also read about allergic runny nose Read here: https://gynea.ru/health/1316-allergicheskiy-rinit-chem-pomoch.html

It looks like allergic rhinitis, we have it like flowering. The allergist prescribed us fenistil and nasal rinsing with Morenazal. Morenasal from the nose cleanses well and washes out pollen, the nose breathes freely, it becomes easier after going outside

Perhaps it's an allergy! At this time of year, all allergy sufferers have hay fever!

Well, they wrote and made diagnoses. Author, well, the child has a cold, it will pass. You are doing everything right, make sure that the snot does not turn yellow or green - then see a doctor.

Vasoconstrictor drops are used for no more than 5 days.

In my case, when the snot starts, I stick a breathing patch on her clothes, it helps very well to remove the snot, and her nose immediately breathes. It’s good for the child - no one gets into his nose and gets better at the same time. Well, for me it is important that the product is natural.

Yes, it looks like allergic rhinitis. Dolphin green is a good remedy for allergies

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If a child develops liquid, transparent snot, this is a clear sign of an acute respiratory infection or an incipient allergy. Is it necessary to treat such snot? Nasal mucus in a child is produced in the same way as in an adult and does not pose any threat. The appearance of clear snot indicates that the body is beginning to protect itself from the effects of the virus.

Mucus secretion occurs when the body fights viruses and allergens , preventing them from spreading. When does a baby’s clear discharge need to be treated, and in what cases can his condition be alleviated with the help of nasal hygiene? Let's try to figure this out.

Pathological causes

Most often, persistent snot in a child is caused by the following processes:

  • adenoiditis - inflammation of the retropharyngeal tonsil;
  • otitis – inflammation of the middle ear, from which pathological discharge can easily enter the pharynx and nasal cavity;
  • sinusitis - bacterial infection of the maxillary paranasal sinuses (this process practically does not occur in children under 3 years of age, since the sinuses are not yet developed);
  • chronic inflammatory diseases of the laryngopharynx;
  • frequent colds and weakened immunity;
  • prolonged and uncontrolled use of vasoconstrictor nasal drops;
  • deviated nasal septum or congenital anomalies in the structure of the sinuses;
  • passive smoking – if a child is constantly forced to breathe cigarette smoke.

Depending on the nature of the origin of the runny nose, it can be:

  • viral;
  • bacterial;
  • allergic.

In some cases, inflammation of the mucous membranes in the nose can be caused by traumatic tissue damage, for example, when small toys get into the nose, unsuccessful cleaning, or inserting fingers and sharp objects into the nasal cavity.

Symptoms of a viral runny nose

Ordinary acute rhinitis develops as a result of viruses entering the mucous membranes, which penetrate into epithelial cells and begin to actively multiply there. Often in children, an acute runny nose occurs in parallel with inflammation of the retropharyngeal tonsil (adenoids), tonsillitis, and pharyngitis.

Viral rhinitis is characterized by nasal congestion, abundant clear mucous discharge, redness of the skin around the vestibule of the nasal cavity, and impaired breathing as a result of tissue swelling.

Runny nose of bacterial origin

Bacterial rhinitis is a consequence of a complicated or untreated acute runny nose and is characterized by the addition of a secondary bacterial infection and the development of a sluggish inflammatory process, both in the nasal cavity itself and in the nearby paranasal sinuses.

In this case, the discharge acquires a thick consistency, a yellow or greenish tint, becomes mucopurulent or purulent, and may have an unpleasant odor.

Breathing through the nose is impaired, the child constantly has snot, and during sleep he may snore and cough due to mucus draining down the back wall of the throat.

The inflammatory process alternates between periods of improvement (when the immune system strengthens and is able to restrain further proliferation of microorganisms) and relapse (when, under the influence of external factors, such as hypothermia or too dry air, the defenses are weakened and bacteria begin to multiply again).

Allergic reaction

Allergic persistent runny nose in a child can have either a periodic course or a chronic course, depending on the nature of its origin. For example, if rhinitis is caused by the flowering of ragweed or poplars, then a runny nose will appear in the summer and continue until autumn.

If the allergic form of the runny nose is caused by exposure to house dust, mold (lives in all homes without exception), household chemicals or pets (their fur), then nasal discharge will be constant and year-round with short periods of remission (improvement).

A persistent runny nose of an allergic nature is characterized by the following symptoms:

  • itching in the nose;
  • severe tissue swelling and inability to breathe normally;
  • nasal voice;
  • sneezing;
  • sore throat;
  • lacrimation;
  • cough, during which a small amount of viscous, transparent sputum is released.

You can only get rid of allergic rhinitis if you establish the cause of the pathology (carry out a skin test for allergens), and then avoid contact with the pathogen.

Transparent snot in a child: how to treat it?

Before treating clear snot in a child, you need to show him to a doctor, who will find out the exact cause of its occurrence. Regardless of the etiology of the runny nose, its treatment necessarily includes the procedure of cleansing and rinsing the nasal canals.

Washing baby's nose

If a child has snot that resembles water, then a nasal aspirator . If the mucus is too thick and viscous, then it must first be liquefied with saline or a decoction of medicinal herbs, using St. John's wort, chamomile or sage for its preparation. For these purposes, you can also purchase a pharmaceutical saline solution:

  • Humer;
  • Dolphin;
  • Aqualor;
  • Salin;
  • Aquamaris.

A few drops of decoction or freshly prepared solution are instilled into each nasal canal, after which the diluted secretion is sucked out using an aspirator.

Any procedures that are carried out using nasal drops or sprays are carried out only after thorough cleansing of the nasal passages. When a small child learns to blow his nose on his own, he will need to be constantly reminded to do it himself.

Treatment of a runny nose with acute respiratory infections or acute respiratory viral infections

Liquid transparent snot in a child who has fallen ill with a viral infection or acute respiratory infection, after some time is replaced by thick discharge. Treatment of such a runny nose should be carried out only with strict adherence to bed rest.

A runny nose of any etiology, which is accompanied by the release of a transparent mucous secretion, should be treated with vasoconstrictors (Nazivin, Nazol, Rinonorm, Vibrocil, Naphthyzin, Galazolin, Sanorin). Such medications alleviate the patient’s condition and reduce the amount of mucous secretion only for a while. They cannot cure a runny nose. It is recommended to use them no more than seven days .

Treatment of liquid mucous discharge during the first three days after the onset of the disease is carried out using human interferon preparations. These include Grippferon and Interferon. Clear snot in the form of water can be treated by inhalation using a nebulizer charged with an interferon solution.

Infectious rhinitis is usually treated with immunomodulatory drugs. Sinupret is considered the most effective - a drug that consists of natural ingredients.

With ARVI, natural recovery usually occurs faster if the child is provided with access to cool and fresh air, as well as a normal drinking regime. becomes thick after a very short time , making it difficult to breathe through the nose and increasing the risk of spreading the virus, as well as the addition of a secondary bacterial infection.

Treatment of allergic rhinitis

If a child’s liquid transparent snot occurs as a result of an allergic reaction, then it is necessary to find out which allergen contributed to its development.

Treatment of allergic rhinitis is carried out with antihistamines in compliance with strict dosages. Before doing this, you should definitely consult an allergist, who will select the right drug. An advanced disease can cause the development of bronchial asthma .

Thus, clear snot in a child may indicate either the presence of an infection in the body or be a reaction to a certain allergen. The baby needs to be shown to a doctor who will conduct an examination, make the correct diagnosis and prescribe appropriate treatment.

If a child’s runny nose does not go away for several weeks or more, then this manifestation of the disease can be called protracted. Many women who are faced with this problem in their babies are concerned about the question of how to deal with the disease and what it can mean.

Symptoms in an infant

There are several symptoms that will make it easier for parents to navigate the specifics of the disease:

  1. Treatment does not give any results after two weeks, nasal discharge continues to the same extent.
  2. The baby's sense of smell decreases. The child ceases to distinguish aromas and may not respond to the pungent odors of onions or garlic.
  3. The child's well-being noticeably deteriorates. There is little activity, lethargy, eating and sleeping patterns are disrupted. The baby may complain of headaches and often say that he is tired.
  4. The appearance of crusts on the mucous membrane. A common cause of the anomaly is vasoconstrictor drugs and irritated mucous membranes. Itching may often occur.
  5. Thick mucus or purulent discharge from the nose. If the airways are affected, they may be white or have a greenish tint. If a transparent thick mass appears, an allergic reaction of the body occurs.
  6. Congestion. If the issue is an allergy, then there is a cyclical increase in the symptom. In the case of infection, the accompanying problem is permanent.
  7. Physiological runny nose. The first three months of a baby’s life, the mucous membrane adapts to environmental conditions, and the release of liquid mucus is normal. A mechanism that moisturizes the mucous membrane is activated. Its excess appears in the form of a runny nose. This phenomenon does not require treatment; it must be waited out.

If rhinitis does not go away for a long time, this is already a symptom of a serious illness. In case of regular accumulation of snot, difficulty breathing, fever, coughing and wheezing, you should immediately contact a specialist for an accurate diagnosis. The doctor will give the necessary answers and prescribe treatment.

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=7gi89w9EEkM

Varieties

Common variety

It is formed if a person has a severely weakened immune system, there are anatomical changes in the normal structure of the nasal cavities, or, alternatively, he takes vasoconstrictor medications for a long time and incorrectly.

In the first year of life, the most common cause of this condition lies precisely in the structure of the nasal cavities, but immunity in the first year of a child’s life can also play a significant role.

Bacterial species

This is a form of acute rhinitis. Some doctors call it a complication of rhinitis. In this case, pathogenic microflora joins the viral infection in the nasal cavity.

The result is obvious: the child is tormented by snot, which is thick, putrid in appearance and greenish-yellow in color.

Allergic variety

It develops when the baby is forced to be exposed to an allergen for a long time. Usually in this case, the snot is liquid, clear and profuse, and other characteristic symptoms of a cold are simply absent.

Variety accompanying teething

Snot does not appear due to problems with the immune system, but due to increased blood supply to the facial area. Mostly they go away on their own if nothing is done as soon as the teeth stop cutting. Often found in children a year or so old, it can last for more than a week.

When a child’s runny nose does not go away for a long time, the mother should evaluate the reasons that could serve as a trigger for the pathology. These include:

  • improper treatment of acute rhinitis:
  • weakness of the immune system;
  • regular colds;
  • allergies;
  • infectious complications of a bacterial nature;
  • anatomical deviations from the norm;
  • hypothermia, etc.

If you ask yourself why a child suffers from a runny nose for a week or more, you can find out that this often occurs due to contact with strong odors from the environment. This factor is also recommended to be taken into account when searching for causes.

Mothers should also know that if a child has eaten spicy food or suddenly switched from cold to warm, he will develop a physiological form of a runny nose.

This form disappears when the body adapts to the environment. It doesn't take weeks.

Features of treatment

To treat a runny nose in children, it is first necessary to eliminate its causes. Children under one year of age require the creation of conditions to increase the body's protective abilities. During treatment, it is recommended to clear the nasal passages of mucus and combat its stagnation (in children, suction). Moisturizing with sea water based products. The following salt solutions are recommended for this: Aqualor, Aquamaris, Dolphin, Humer.

Among them, an important place is given to immunostimulating ones, for example, Derinat. Derinat solution is well tolerated by children and strengthens the immune system.

How to treat: instill 3-5 drops into each nostril 4-6 times a day (up to one month). Helps suppress the activity of viruses and bacteria. Many people are interested in what is the best way to treat a persistent runny nose in a child with reduced immunity. Such children are prescribed Interferon, which is available in the form of suppositories, tablets, drops and ointments.

Medications used

  • Drops and spray: Vibrocil, Nazivin, Otrivin, Nazol. 1 drop up to three times a day for no more than 7 days.
  • Homeopathic remedies: Delufen spray, Euphorbium compositum. Used from an early age.
  • Cinnabsin – one tablet up to 10 times a day.
  • Sinupret - 1-2 tablets three times a day.
  • Hormonal sprays: Nasobek, Nasonex: 1-2 injections 3 times a day. Use after clearing mucus from the nose.
  • Pinosol based on plant components in the form of a spray, drops or ointment.
  • Antihistamines Cromohexal and Allergodil for allergic rhinitis.
  • Local antibiotics Isofra and Bioparox (as prescribed by a doctor).

In the video, Dr. Komarovsky will tell you how to treat a persistent runny nose:

Physiotherapy

Inhalations are effective. If the cough is dry, inhalations are necessary to relieve irritation of the mucous membrane and inflammation. If wet - to separate sputum.

Approximate composition for inhalation: St. John's wort, calendula and mint, mix one tablespoon per 1 liter of water. Let it brew and strain. Use for breathing with a steam inhaler for 10 minutes. You can also use chamomile and eucalyptus.

Cold inhalations: moistening a napkin in essential oil (mint, rosemary, lemon) for inhalation by the baby. For purulent discharge, inhalation is not recommended.

Acupressure is recommended to strengthen the mucous membrane in children on both sides of the wings of the nose. Massage up to three times a day, rubbing aromatic oils into the sinuses.

Folk methods and remedies are widely used: compress with warm salt, inhalation of warm steam, juice of Kalanchoe plants, aloe as nasal drops. Mustard plasters on the chest and back are effective for 10-20 minutes (for the first time 3-5 minutes). At the end of the session, lubricate the child’s skin with cream and wrap it up. Mustard plasters are not recommended for up to a year. It is better for babies to apply it with the back side. Do not use if body temperature rises. The skin should be clean, without any damage to its integrity. Course up to 10 days.

Before treating a child with a persistent runny nose, it is important to learn some rules. A runny nose cannot be treated with antibiotics. They are not effective in fighting viruses

Bacteria quickly “adapt” to the drugs. But there may be reasons for allergies. In addition, antibiotics quickly become addictive. Use vasoconstrictor medications only as prescribed by a doctor and strictly according to the dosage. They have a number of side effects. Can affect the heart and delay the healing process. Such drops can only reduce the amount of mucus in the nose, but it has protective functions.

Possible complications of childhood rhinitis

A runny nose, which children are often susceptible to, can lead to complications such as: chronic runny nose, chronic sinusitis, otitis media.

Otitis is most often diagnosed in children under one year of age, this is due to the anatomical features of the auditory tube in infants, which remains widened and shortened. In addition, at this age, the baby cannot yet cough up mucus during the inflammatory process of the nasopharyngeal mucosa, and therefore secretions from the nasal cavity freely penetrate into the auditory tube and cause inflammation in the middle ear.

The disease begins with acute pain that continues to increase. Symptoms of otitis media require urgent medical attention. Self-medication in this case is not only pointless, but also dangerous. If, against the background of otitis, pus begins to discharge from the ear, the child is indicated for hospitalization.

Chronic runny nose usually appears in preschool age against the background of frequent rhinitis and colds. Symptoms of chronic rhinitis boil down to problems with nasal breathing, alternating congestion of one of the nasal passages, and constant light nasal discharge. Treatment is carried out on an outpatient basis.

Sinusitis in childhood is asymptomatic, which is explained by underdevelopment of the paranasal sinuses. Typically, sinusitis is treated on an outpatient basis, but if complications occur such as an increase in body temperature of 38 degrees, purulent nasal discharge mixed with blood, or severe anxiety in the child, urgent hospitalization is necessary.

Despite the apparent ease of a runny nose as a symptom of a cold, its danger cannot be underestimated. Therefore, it is important to start treating a runny nose from the first symptoms.

Author: Nina Pleshakova, therapist, especially for Moylor.ru

How and how to treat a persistent runny nose

Basically, at the first symptoms of a runny nose, parents try to cope with the symptom on their own, but when home treatment does not help, rhinitis does not disappear for a long time, then they turn to doctors.
Treatment depends on the cause and includes both the use of topical medications and internal medications. Good results can also be obtained from inhalation procedures, washing the mucous membrane with saline or isotonic solutions. One of the frequently prescribed medications for a persistent runny nose is Sinupret, which is available in two forms: tablets and drops for oral administration. The drug is herbal based and can be prescribed to children over 2 years of age. Sinupret has a pronounced anti-inflammatory, secretolytic effect, relieves swelling, facilitates the passage of mucus from the nasal passages, and reduces inflammation.

The second drug used for a prolonged runny nose is interferon preparations, which help stimulate the immune system and suppress the aggressiveness of viruses and bacteria. Such drugs are produced in different forms, nasal drops, tablets for the common cold, drops for internal use: Nazoferon. Edas-131 drops or Euphorbium Compositum nasal spray have worked well for a prolonged runny nose.

Vasodilator drops are quite good at coping with a persistent runny nose, but they can both help and harm. In order for such drugs to bring a good therapeutic result, they can be used for no more than 5-7 days.

If prolonged rhinitis appears against the background of an allergic reaction, you need to eliminate contact with the allergen and take drugs with antihistamine action: Erius, Tavegil, Loratadine, Eden and others.

Any drug for prolonged rhinitis in a child should be prescribed by a doctor individually, taking into account the age, cause, and characteristics of the child’s body.

Inhalation

Inhalation procedures for a prolonged runny nose will help relieve swelling of the nasal mucosa and eliminate inflammation. As medicinal raw materials, you can take both pharmaceutical preparations (Dekasan, Miramistin) and traditional medicine (chamomile, calendula, plantain, essential oils). Inhalations with medicinal herbs can be carried out over a pan of hot steam. If a medication solution is used, you will need an inhaler - a nebulizer. If the body temperature rises above 37.2, inhalations are contraindicated. Procedures with decoctions of medicinal herbs are not recommended for children under 3 years of age.

Washing

One of the effective methods for any rhinitis is washing the mucous membrane with isotonic or saline solutions: Humer, Marimer, Aquamaris. Saline solutions help cleanse the mucous membrane of accumulated mucus, viruses, bacteria, allergens and other pathogens. Children of any age can wash the mucous membranes.

Massage

An auxiliary technique to the main treatment can be acupressure. You can do it several times a day. It is enough to lightly massage the area around the wings of the nose; you can use essential oils or warming medicinal ointments for children.

How to cure a persistent runny nose in a child and eliminate possible complications is determined by the doctor individually for each little patient. In cases where the cause is hidden in defects of the ENT organs, the doctor may prescribe surgical treatment.

Traditional medicine against runny nose

Onion and garlic nasal drops for a runny nose are considered the most effective and safest in folk medicine.

Traditional medicine recipes have a good effect in the fight against rhinitis, with the help of which it is possible to get rid of nasal congestion in a short time.

At home, you can use the following advice from traditional healers:

  • To relieve nasal congestion, you can instill onion or garlic juice, previously diluted with water. Kalanchoe juice, which has a bactericidal and anti-inflammatory effect, is also considered an effective remedy.
  • If the child does not have allergies, you can prepare drops based on honey, combining it with beet juice in a ratio of 1:3. This folk remedy must be instilled into the child’s nasal passages several times a day, 3 drops.
  • Decoctions and infusions prepared with chamomile, calendula, mint and St. John's wort will help the body cope with colds.
  • You can warm up your nose with a boiled egg, and also take hot foot baths.

Rhinitis often develops as one of the symptoms of a disease, and therefore requires mandatory treatment. In the absence of drug therapy, the likelihood of further progression of the pathology and the development of many complications increases.

Is physiological runny nose in a baby normal or pathological?

Main causes and signs of the disease

In young children, the paranasal sinuses are underdeveloped and the nasal passages are insufficiently formed. These areas of the respiratory system fill with mucus, which causes swelling and inflammation.

The main signs of a prolonged runny nose in children are:

  • The duration of the disease is more than 10 days;
  • Difficulty breathing through the nose;
  • Dulled or absent sense of smell;
  • The child does not distinguish the taste of food;
  • Child's drowsiness, fatigue;
  • Sometimes there is a sharp or muffled headache.

If a child has the above symptoms, you should immediately contact your pediatrician to prescribe appropriate treatment.

How to cure a persistent runny nose in a child? To do this, you need to know the reason that provoked prolonged prolonged rhinitis.

In medicine, the following causes of chronic runny nose in children are identified:

  • Hypothermia;
  • Exposure to viruses, bacteria and microbes;
  • Allergic reactions to external irritants;
  • Complications after chronic colds;
  • Defects and pathologies of the nasal septum.

Prevention of runny nose in children 3 years old

At 3 years old, children usually go to kindergarten, where they bring snot, colds, etc. Prevention is very important to prevent persistent infections. The immune system is formed in sufficient volume only by 4-5 years. If you still had to send your child to kindergarten before this age, be prepared for the fact that he will end up in an aggressive microbial environment and begin to get sick.

Based on the above, we can conclude that:

  • The first rule of prevention is to find the right kindergarten. This is one where teachers monitor hygiene, ventilate the premises, and also send home a sick child.
  • The second rule is the right clothes. Children at 3 years old are very active, they run, jump, and therefore sweat. If you wear too much warm, and even synthetic, clothing, there is a high chance that your sweaty child will catch a cold. Choose clothes so that they are suitable for the weather, made from natural materials and do not allow cold air to pass through.

At home, rooms need to be ventilated, especially in winter, when radiators actively burn oxygen and dry out the air. Open windows when you go somewhere, and also buy a humidifier. It will help create comfortable conditions for the child.

Proper nutrition, rich in vitamins and microelements, as well as vitamin complexes, walks in the fresh air, away from dust and cars, will help strengthen your immune system.

You can begin to harden the child. But you don't need to water it with cold water. It is enough to reduce the water temperature. For this purpose, you can send your child to a toddler pool, where the temperature difference is created by the air temperature being lower than the water temperature.

How to get rid of a runny nose in 1 day - the most effective methods and tips

Causes of snot in the nasopharynx

Snot in a child’s nasopharynx can appear for various reasons:

In babies of the first year of life, a runny nose is a much more common occurrence than in adults. This is due to the fact that their nasal passages are narrower.

It may also be due to the fact that the nasopharynx is not cleared after childbirth. A runny nose can be triggered by regurgitation and dryness of the nasal cavity (in winter this is facilitated by heating, in summer by air conditioning).

Rhinitis can appear even when teething: the mucous membrane of the gums swells, the mucous membrane of the entire nasopharynx reacts, bacteria enter, and green discharge appears.

A runny nose is accompanied by such a common phenomenon in children as stomatitis. In the clinic it may be indicated as a diagnosis, although, in fact, it is only a manifestation of the disease. But it goes away on its own within a week, and it is not always possible to establish the cause that caused it.

Mothers usually complain that nasal congestion is felt in the morning. Here you need to sensibly assess the situation and not rush into using vasoconstrictor drops.

If, when you wash your face in the morning, you moisturize, thin and cleanse the nasal mucosa, then the same principle applies to babies, and morning cleansing is a natural process. After all, the formation of mucus is a normal phenomenon. It is not normal when its formation is excessive.

The main types of protracted rhinitis

Correct and competent treatment, depending on the causes of the disease, will help quickly get rid of a prolonged runny nose in children.

Viral and bacterial rhinitis

When pathogenic bacteria and viruses enter a child’s body, the immune system begins to fight them.
However, due to a weakened immune system, mucus and phlegm do not completely come out of the sinuses. Distinctive manifestations of viral rhinitis are:

  • Long-term nasal congestion;
  • Copious mucous discharge;
  • The child has chills and fever;
  • Weakness, drowsiness;
  • Sore throat, redness and swelling of the tonsils.

Allergic runny nose

Many children from an early age experience a reaction of the immune system to external stimuli. Allergic rhinitis occurs due to the following substances entering the body;

  • Pollen during flowering plants;
  • Dust particles outdoors or indoors;
  • Smoke;
  • Allergens contained in animal fur;
  • Bird fluff;
  • Pathogenic fungus or dust mite;
  • Household chemicals, detergents.

Symptoms of allergic rhinitis are:

  • Severe or moderate swelling of the nasal mucosa;
  • Copious discharge accompanied by sneezing;
  • Seasonal course of the disease with possible exacerbations at certain times of the year;
  • Constant sneezing, itchy nose;
  • Sometimes, excessive tearing.

Important! The absence of colds and allergies indicates that the child has a vasomotor rhinitis. This type of rhinitis refers to a chronic disease that occurs when the functioning of blood vessels or a defect in the nasal septum is impaired. Also, a prolonged runny nose of this type is provoked by inflamed adenoids and enlarged polyps.

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