Treatment of runny nose in children is quick and effective. Treatment of a runny nose in children - the most effective nasal drops, folk remedies, rinsing and warming A 3-year-old child has a runny nose

At 3 years old, along with the era of kindergarten and active socialization, a constant runny nose comes to the child - and with it the question: how to treat this scourge.

True, while you are thinking, the problem may become chronic.

To prevent this from happening, I have collected for you all the important information about children’s runny nose and its treatment using the most effective and harmless methods.

Causes and types of runny nose

There is always snot in the noses of both adults and children.

Find out how to treat a runny nose in a child

Most often, the cause of a runny nose in three-year-olds is ARVI - viral infections that spread in children's groups like a fire in the dry steppe.

ARVI can be identified by the fairly acute onset of the disease: malaise, muscle aches and fatigue are quickly “caught up” by fever, cough and snot.

Mucus in the nose during a viral infection performs two functions: it protects the respiratory tract from the disease penetrating further into the body and fights the cause “at the entrance.”

Thus, a runny nose in a 3-year-old child (as well as in adults) when infected with a virus is even useful.

We will talk about in what cases and how it should be treated below. Now - about green snot.

A change in the color of mucus in your baby's nose indicates that bacteria is at work.

The main thing is to correctly establish the cause of the disease

This can happen in two ways:

1. If the snot was green or yellowish from the very beginning, then there is a cold- hypothermia, which temporarily weakened the immune system and gave the microbes already in the body the opportunity to begin to actively multiply
2. If the mucus was clear and then turned green- there is a bacterial complication of ARVI

An allergic runny nose is the body's reaction to an allergen.

It is usually easy to identify, since snot begins to flow immediately after contact with what causes the allergy: household chemicals, dust, wool, food, etc.

With a pollen allergy, a runny nose is seasonal and worsens outside, which is also quite easy to notice.

Means for treating a runny nose in a child

When a child gets sick, parents naturally begin to worry.

And it is at this stage that many make mistakes without really understanding what and how to do.

Treatment of runny nose in children should be comprehensive

You need to start therapy from the very basics. In the simplest and most accessible form, the famous pediatrician Dr. Komarovsky talks about how to treat a runny nose in a 3-year-old child.

He reminds: a runny nose during viral infections plays an important role in resisting the disease, and therefore there is no need to treat it as such.

What is really necessary is to keep the snot in a liquid state, since dried mucus ceases to fulfill its protective function and becomes a favorable environment for the proliferation of bacteria.

That is why the main thing that parents of a three-year-old should do is not to let the snot turn into dry “roons”.

To do this, it is important to remember two rules:

1. The air in the child’s room (and in the apartment as a whole) should be moist, cool (18–20°C) and clean
2. You can liquefy mucus using a harmless saline solution (salt water)

Warm, dry air, typical for most apartments during the heating season, causes the snot to dry out and make breathing through the nose even more difficult.

Rule out possible allergies in your child

And active mouth breathing provokes thickening of mucus already in the bronchi, which can lead to pneumonia and other unpleasant complications of an initially harmless disease.

Saline solution is an excellent alternative to popular medications.

It has a number of advantages:

1. Affordable price (and if desired, easy to prepare at home)
2. Harmlessness
3. Proven effectiveness

You can drip it as often as you like - there can be no overdose from the usual one.

Also, in advice on how to treat a runny nose in a 3-year-old child, Komarovsky mentions oil vitamin solutions (tocopherol with vitamin E and retinol with vitamin A), as well as regular olive oil.

One drop of two or three drops into each nostril helps prevent the nasal mucous membranes from drying out for a couple of hours.

Advice: do not drip oil and saline solution at the same time - alternate their use for maximum effect.

Remember that children do not need to go to work, where snooping actively irritates all colleagues, and therefore you should not strive to get rid of a child’s runny nose as soon as possible.

Vitamin solutions will help

If a child catches an acute respiratory viral infection in kindergarten, it is absolutely illogical to undergo treatment in order to return to the contagious group.

Try to put your child's health first, even if it means taking a day off from work or asking grandma to babysit for a week.

Another important point that Dr. Komarovsky reminds us of (and which parents regularly forget about) is the importance and necessity of walks.

When the acute symptoms of ARVI are defeated, the child no longer has a fever, he has a normal appetite and activity, then neither a cough nor a runny nose is an obstacle to walking.

On the contrary, clean and cool (and even cold) air in the park and moderate physical activity contribute to a speedy recovery.

Advice: do not be alarmed if the snot gets worse during walks. This is a natural reaction and there is nothing harmful in it. Take saline solution for a walk and continue to rinse your nostrils from time to time.

Folk remedies for the treatment of runny nose

If all of the above procedures are followed, the runny nose should go away on its own a few days or weeks after the remaining symptoms of the disease disappear.

Try putting saline or olive oil in your nose

However, many parents find it difficult to simply wait and “do nothing” to actively treat children’s snot.

This is where grandmother's advice comes to the rescue.

How to treat a runny nose in a 3-year-old child using folk remedies?

I will give three of the most effective recipes using the gifts of nature as medicines.

Excellent nasal clearers that can grow on your windowsill include popular houseplants and kalanchoes (yes, they are two different flowers).

From the juice of these natural doctors, a natural tincture is prepared for instillation into the nose:

1. Aloe juice is diluted with water in proportions of one to one
2. It is better to dilute Kalanchoe juice in a ratio of one to two.

A few drops of these products provoke active sneezing and mucus production.

Help your child blow his nose thoroughly after instillation and apply olive oil to his nostrils.

Aloe and Kalanchoe juices are quite irritating to the mucous membranes, and the oil will help soothe the tissues and protect them until a new portion of mucus is produced.

Try using aloe or kalanchoe juice

Advice: mentally prepare the child for the procedure - the plants have a specific smell and are very bitter when they enter through the nasopharynx.

Honey

An excellent folk remedy for treating a runny nose in a 3-year-old child is.

Probably every grandmother knows how to treat snot with it: you need to mix honey in a one to one ratio and bury it in your nose three times a day, one or two drops per nostril.

This remedy is especially useful for bacterial complications, since honey is a mild but effective natural bactericide.

Potato inhalations

Finally, many parents, remembering their own childhood, prefer a simple but rather radical remedy: inhalation over hot potatoes.

The method has its advantages and disadvantages: on the one hand, hot wet steam well moisturizes the nasal passages and helps to liquefy mucus, on the other hand, it carries with it the risk of accidental burns.

From my own childhood, I remember how I kicked and didn’t want to “breathe potatoes,” because the steam seemed too hot for my entire face, and it was terribly stuffy under the towel.

Can't do without inhalations

1. Do not heat the inhalation too much
2. Stay close to your child all the time and listen to his complaints.
3. Stop the procedure if your baby feels hot or stuffy.

By the way, instead of potatoes, it is better to take ordinary warm water and add a drop or two of eucalyptus or - and it will be easier to breathe, and the bactericidal effect will be more noticeable.

Or buy a specialized inhaler at the pharmacy.

Nasal sprays and drops

As adults, we most often prefer quick and effective vasoconstrictors as remedies for the runny nose.

And almost all of them have a children's version. Is it worth using these pharmaceutical products to treat a runny nose in a 3-year-old child, and if so, how to treat snot with drops? Let's figure it out.

An obvious advantage of vasoconstrictors is the rapid, literally in a minute, elimination of mucus and easier nasal breathing.

Be careful when using inhalations

But pharmaceutical products also have many disadvantages, the most serious of which are addiction and possible side effects.

The latter can be either local (i.e. manifest in the nose in the form of burning, dryness, swelling of the mucous membrane) or general (unpleasant dizziness, increased blood pressure, blurred vision, vomiting, etc.).

Thus, the only case in which the use of vasoconstrictor drugs is justified is the need to almost completely get rid of a stuffy nose for several hours.

What the reason may be is up to you to decide.

In all other situations, it is rational to use the traditional means already mentioned above.

Features of treatment for a child aged 3 years

Treating a small child is always fraught with difficulties: choosing the right medications, persuading them to take them, the whims of the sick child...

How to treat a runny nose in a 3-year-old child so as not to upset either yourself or him? Reviews from experienced parents recommend taking action in advance.

We constantly tell our readers about the benefits of honey.

From the age of two, a child can and should be shown how to blow his nose correctly.

Teach your child not to sniffle and provide clean handkerchiefs or napkins.

At the same age, it is necessary to explain why and how certain medications are used so that the child understands the relationship between free breathing and unpleasant nose drops.

Strengthen your child's immunity

Do not perform rituals of nasal drops and inhalations: the less the child pays attention to his illness, the easier it will be for both him and you.

Stay calm, if your condition allows, take an active walk.

And, of course, remember: the best treatment is prevention!

We hope the above tips have clarified for you the question of how to treat a runny nose in a 3-year-old child.

For more information on the topic, watch this video by Dr. Komarovsky:

My child is 3 years old. A week ago I developed a runny nose. The mucus is either thin or thick, and the symptoms are constantly changing. I’ve already tried all the methods, but I don’t want to go to the hospital, because it’s just a common runny nose. The child feels well; his temperature has risen several times. How to treat a runny nose in a 3-year-old child quickly and effectively? Marina, 23 years old

Experimental home therapy rarely produces immediate results. Considering the duration of symptomatic manifestations, your child’s runny nose is progressing. Episodic exacerbation of symptoms and instability of mucous discharge is explained by inadequate treatment methods (for example, alternating vasoconstrictor and secretolytic drugs). Thus, with vasoconstriction, swelling and congestion are reduced, and when exposed to secretomotor drops, the mucous component increases again. Before starting any treatment, you should consult an otolaryngologist, because a feature of early childhood is the lack of skills in fully blowing your nose, which can provoke numerous complications, including the development of chronic sinusitis, sinusitis, and nasopharyngitis.

An important aspect of successful treatment is complete exclusion of factors provoking rhinitis. A runny nose in children can be caused by the following reasons:

exposure to tobacco smoke and chemical vapors;

unfavorable environmental conditions;

too hot food, aggressive foods (spicy, salty, spices);

stress factors;

anatomical features of the nasal septum;

allergic reaction to dust, animal hair;

foreign body in the nasal passages.

At the age of 3 years, a child can already more accurately report what is bothering him. Considering the similarity of the symptoms of a runny nose in adults, a parallel can be drawn between the signs: congestion, nasal voice, lacrimation and snot. The appearance of snot in three-year-old children is a signal of the onset of a cold.

How to treat

When the first signs appear, the following measures should be taken:

ensure rest and plenty of fluids;

exclude contacts;

regular suction of mucus with an aspirator:

start therapy using unconventional methods or medication.

If Children under 3 years old do not have sinusitis, due to anatomical features, then after three years the risks of pathology increase significantly. But catarrhal otitis media (inflammation of the middle ear) with severe shooting pains can very easily occur. A child's cold should be treated promptly. For general treatment, the following drugs are used:

A runny nose in a 3-year-old child is accompanied by copious mucus discharge. Aspirators should be used for safe removal. An ideal option would be an Otrivin aspirator with replaceable nozzles. After each procedure, the nozzle must be changed. You can suck out the mucus an unlimited number of times. Before each event, you should moisturize your nasal passages with saline solutions (Aquamaris, Otrivin, No-sol, Marimer, Humer).

Drops

To prevent the release of liquefied mucus, vasoconstrictor drugs with low concentrations of the active substance are used in pediatric practice. Popular drugs are:

Vibrocil;

• Nazivin in age dosage.

The silver-based drug Protargol, which has a pronounced bactericidal effect, is popular. Despite the ban on use in children under 5 years of age, pediatricians often prescribe them to children 3 years of age or younger.

The positive effect of Protargol (Sialor) is due to the thickening of mucus and its unhindered removal from the respiratory tract with sneezing, breathing, and increased activity. Vasoconstrictors should be used for no more than 7 days to avoid side effects.

Additionally, decoctions of chamomile, rose hips, fruit drinks from viburnum, rowan, lingonberry and cranberry are used. The room where the child is located should be moderately warm and humid. Increased dryness provokes the formation of crusts, itching, sneezing and increased inflammation. At night, you can lubricate the child’s heels with warming ointments such as Doctor-Mom, Vietnamese Star. At this age, it is undesirable to apply such ointments to the wings of the nose and the area of ​​the heart. You can rub your back (only the area of ​​the shoulder blades in the projection of the lungs) and throat.

For prolonged rhinitis, physiotherapy will be effective: ultrasound heating, laser exposure, aromatherapy, breathing exercises. Today, inhalers are available in pharmacy chains for subsequent use at home. You can put not only medications in the tank, but also essential oils and herbal decoctions.

Folk remedies

Traditional medicine does not deny the effectiveness of traditional methods of treatment, provided there is no purulent discharge and high body temperature. Treatment at home is acceptable only in the initial stages of the disease. The following means are used:

applying mustard plasters;

rubbing the legs with fat (bear, badger);

warming the nose with dry heat (heated buckwheat or rice, hot egg) in the absence of inflammation and swelling;

rubbing with essential oils (eucalyptus, pine needles, camphor, tea tree).

For a child aged 3 years, wet steam inhalations (hot herbal infusions, potatoes) are contraindicated. This is dangerous due to severe burns of the mucous membrane and skin of any location. Drops from vegetable juices, especially garlic, horseradish, pepper, onion. You should not experiment with allergenic products (aloe, Kalanchoe, honey and other bee products).

Successful treatment of a runny nose eliminates possible complications and restores the child’s health. Simultaneously with treatment, it is important to take multivitamins to strengthen the body's immune defense. Even the most caring parents are not able to prescribe correct and adequate treatment for their child, so it is better to consult a pediatrician for an accurate diagnosis of rhinitis, as well as the nature of its occurrence.

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It is important to remember that in childhood the disease develops faster than in adults. This is due to the fact that the mucous membrane of the nasal passages is looser and is supplied with a large number of blood and lymphatic vessels. Therefore, when encountering a factor that causes inflammation (most often, a viral infection), swelling develops faster, and mucus also begins to be produced more actively and in larger quantities. In addition, children, especially those under 3 years of age, have narrower nasal passages than adults. Therefore, the resulting swelling of the mucous membrane quickly leads to the closure of their lumen and difficulty in nasal breathing. In this regard, measures to treat the disease must be taken quickly enough.

What consequences can acute rhinitis lead to in children in the absence of proper treatment? First of all, against the background of a viral infection, a bacterial infection is often associated; inflammation can affect not only the nasal passages, but also the sinuses, which leads to the development of (ethmoiditis, frontal sinusitis). Also in children, the middle ear is often involved in the inflammatory process (the infection rises from the nasal cavity along the auditory tube), which leads to the occurrence of otitis media.

In addition, the lack of treatment can lead to a problem such as a prolonged runny nose in a child, that is, to the development. Illiterate use of medications also leads to adverse consequences. For example, uncontrolled use of vasoconstrictor drugs very often causes the development of a condition in a child that requires long-term treatment and observation.

Parents often believe that antibiotics are an effective remedy for runny noses in children. However, in most cases, their uncontrolled use only aggravates the situation. After all, an antibacterial drug has no effect on viruses that cause inflammation, but sometimes has an inhibitory effect on beneficial microflora, which is an important defense system of the body. In addition, uncontrolled use of antibiotics leads to the development of resistance in bacteria present in the child’s body. And in the case of a bacterial infection (purulent rhinitis, sinusitis), which are very often caused by these microbes, choosing an effective treatment can be much more difficult.

It is necessary to understand that treatment of even such a common and, at first glance, not serious disease as rhinitis in children, should be carried out under the supervision of a doctor. Because inflammation in the nasal cavity can be both a sign of a common ARVI and a symptom of diseases such as measles, diphtheria, measles, etc.

The most common cause of rhinitis in children is infection. In a child, especially under the age of 3 years, the protective mechanisms are insufficiently formed, and we are talking about both general immunity and local immunity. When inhaled, airborne pathogens primarily enter the nasal cavity. With fully functioning protective mechanisms, microbes are enveloped in mucus and removed due to the movements of special cilia, which are equipped with epithelial cells. In addition, immunoglobulins, proteins that provide local immunity on the nasal mucosa, help resist the development of infection. In young children, there is insufficient production of these proteins, and the general immune response, which allows blocking the inflammatory process at an early stage, is also “triggered” to a lesser extent.

Factors that increase the risk of developing rhinitis in a child caused by infections are inhalation of dry air and dust, as this leads to drying out of the mucus in the nose and makes it difficult for the eyelashes to work. Thus, favorable conditions are created for the proliferation of pathogens in the nasal cavity and the development of inflammation.

The cause of the disease can be both viruses and bacteria. As a rule, the disease begins with viral rhinitis in children, then inflammation caused by bacteria joins. Less common pathogens are fungi, tuberculosis bacillus, and gonococcus.

It is important to remember that a runny nose in a child can be a symptom of some infectious diseases, such as measles, diphtheria, etc. That is why treatment of the disease, especially in young children, is best done under the supervision of a doctor who can make the correct diagnosis and prevent the development of complications.

Allergic rhinitis in a child occurs due to contact with an allergen. This can be house dust, animal hair and skin flakes, plant pollen, food, etc.

There are other causes of a runny nose. Thus, vasomotor rhinitis in children occurs as a result of a violation of the regulation of vascular tone in the nasal mucosa, as a result of which epithelial cells begin to actively produce mucus even with normal physiological irritation (cool air, dust), in stressful situations. The cause of this may be a disease such as vegetative-vascular dystonia, various disorders of the nervous system (vascular neurosis), and allergic diseases.

Predisposing factors to the development of vasomotor rhinitis in a child are the proliferation of adenoids in the nasopharynx and a deviated nasal septum.

It is important to know that a very common cause of this condition is the abuse of vasoconstrictor drugs. The use of these drugs for more than 5-7 days contributes to disruption of the natural regulation of vascular tone in the nasal mucosa and the development of drug-induced rhinitis.

Kinds

Symptoms and treatment tactics for a disease such as rhinitis in a child depend on its type. Therefore, despite the presence of common symptoms, such as nasal congestion, the presence of mucus in the nasal cavity, the causes, and therefore the principles of treatment, for various types of runny nose in a child will differ significantly.

Rhinitis is divided into groups depending on the nature of the process in the nasal cavity (catarrhal,), the cause that caused the disease (for example: allergies, viruses, bacteria), and other criteria. You can see the detailed classification.

Symptoms

What are the symptoms of infection-related rhinitis in children? They depend on the stage of the disease, as well as on the characteristics of the pathogen that caused the disease.

• Initial phase(it is also called “dry” or “dry irritation stage”). During this period, pathogens penetrate the nasal mucosa. The body responds to microbial aggression by dilating the epithelial vessels, filling them with blood, but the mucous membrane itself remains dry. Symptoms of this period are a burning sensation in the nasal cavity, a feeling of “itching”, discomfort in the nose, and a desire to sneeze. Gradually, nasal congestion appears without a runny nose in the child, and the sense of smell decreases. At the same time, general symptoms may occur: weakness, lethargy, headache, and a slight increase in temperature may occur. Young children become capricious, irritable, and their appetite may decrease. As a rule, this phase lasts from several hours to one, less often, two days. If the child has good local and general immunity (it is very important to notice the symptoms in time and take the necessary preventive measures, which we will talk about later), the body can cope with the invasion of viruses, and the disease will not develop. Otherwise, the next phase begins.
• Catarrhal phase(also called the “wet” or “serous discharge stage”). During this period, there is an increase in the permeability of the mucous membrane damaged by viruses. Lymphatic fluid leaks from the vessels into the tissue, which leads to severe swelling. The activity of epithelial cells that produce mucus increases, which accumulates in the child’s nasopharynx. As a rule, the discharge at this stage is light in color and has a fairly liquid consistency. Discharge from the nose flows down the back wall of the nasopharynx and often enters the lower respiratory tract, so a combination of runny nose and cough in a child is often observed. Irritation often occurs around the nasal passages and on the upper lip. At this stage, there is severe difficulty in nasal breathing, the child can only breathe through the mouth, which leads to anxiety and sleep disturbance. The sense of smell and taste disappears, and appetite suffers.

Symptoms during this period also include a runny nose and fever in the child: the thermometer can rise to 38 degrees or higher. The severity of general symptoms depends on the characteristics of the virus that caused the inflammation. So, with the flu, you will experience muscle aches and severe fever (up to 39 degrees and above). With adenoviral infection and parainfluenza, the general condition, as a rule, suffers less, although general weakness, lethargy, and headache may bother the child.

It often happens that a child has a cough and runny nose without fever. This picture can be observed several days after the onset of the disease, when the activity of inflammatory processes is already decreasing; it may also be due to the characteristics of the virus that caused the disease, or it may indicate a low reactivity of the immune system, unable to give a full response to the invasion of infection: in this case, the disease progresses sluggishly and there is often a tendency to develop chronic rhinitis in the child.

The catarrhal phase usually lasts 3-5 days. During this period, it is very important to carry out competent treatment of runny nose in children: this significantly increases the likelihood that the body will cope with the infection and recovery will occur. However, often against the background of damage to the nasal mucosa by a viral infection, the bacterial flora is activated, which leads to the appearance of new symptoms.

• Phase of mucopurulent discharge,- the so-called purulent runny nose in a child. It can occur on days 3-5 of the course of the disease. A characteristic sign of a bacterial infection is a change in the nature of the mucus: it becomes cloudy, acquires a yellowish or greenish tint, becomes thick, and an unpleasant odor may appear.

In this case, an improvement in general condition, a decrease in temperature, and a decrease in headaches are often observed. The duration of the phase is usually 2-4 days. With adequate treatment, this phase is usually followed by recovery. If the child’s immunity is reduced and proper treatment has not been carried out, there is a possibility that the acute phase of the disease will transition into a chronic phase, as well as the development of complications.

• Recovery phase. With an adequate immune response and proper treatment, recovery most often occurs on days 5-7 of illness. During this period, there is a restoration of nasal breathing, a decrease in the amount of mucus until it completely disappears, an improvement in general condition, taste and smell are restored, sleep and appetite are improved. It usually takes 3 to 5 days for the symptoms of the disease to completely disappear.

In order for the body to effectively cope with infection, it is important to include more fresh fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins and microelements in the diet. Berries are very useful - they contain a large number of components that have a positive effect on the immune system: they can be consumed fresh, or in winter - make fruit drinks and compotes from frozen berries. It is important to remember that during illness you should not experiment with unusual dishes or exotic fruits. The introduction of new products that are unfamiliar to the child’s body requires adaptation (especially at a younger age), in addition, they can cause allergies. Therefore, it is better to focus on those healthy foods that were previously present in the baby’s diet.

How and with what to rinse your nose?

Nasal rinsing is a simple method to reduce the viscosity of mucus and prevent the formation of crusts in the nose. The mucus is easily blown out or “pulled” into the nasopharynx and swallowed - stagnation does not occur and conditions are created for restoring the natural protective function of the nasal mucosa in the child.

Treatment of runny nose with saline solution in children

One of the simplest answers to the question “how to treat a runny nose in a child” is to instill saline solution into the nose, or, more simply, a solution of table salt.

How to prepare saline solution for runny nose in children? It is enough to dilute one teaspoon of table salt in one liter of warm water (you can take any water - bottled, boiled). The concentration should not be exceeded so that the solution does not have an aggressive effect on the damaged mucous membrane of the baby’s nasal cavity. In addition, saline solution can be purchased ready-made at the pharmacy - it is very inexpensive!

To instill saline solution into the nose, you can use a regular pipette. The procedure can be carried out at any age: for children under 3 years old, 1-3 drops in each nostril are enough, for older children – 4-6 drops. The frequency of instillation depends on the amount of mucus in the nose: if its formation is intense, saline solution can be dripped into the nose every 10-15 minutes (excluding sleep time).

How to make breathing easier for a child with a runny nose? To more intensively cleanse the nasal cavity of accumulated mucus and restore nasal breathing, you can perform a nasal rinsing procedure. For this, a saline solution or a solution based on sea salt is also used - you can, for example, purchase a Dolphin kit at the pharmacy, which includes bags of sea salt and a special bottle for rinsing the nose.

You can also purchase a ready-made children's runny nose spray - however, you must pay special attention to age restrictions. Too strong a spray in a spray designed for use in older children can lead to mucus being thrown into the auditory tubes in babies, which can lead to the development of otitis media.

However, in most cases, rinsing the nose is not a necessary procedure when treating a runny nose in children; simply instilling saline solution into the nose is often sufficient. Nasal rinsing is much more important when treating sinusitis in children: you can read more about the procedure.

Rinse the nose with hydrogen peroxide

Quite often you can find recommendations to use hydrogen peroxide for a runny nose in children - in the form of drops and a solution for rinsing. Adherents of this technique believe that the antiseptic properties of this substance can be useful in the treatment of inflammation of the nasal passages.

However, the use of this technique - both in childhood and in adulthood - has no official justification; no clinical studies have been conducted on this approach to prove its effectiveness and safety. The use of hydrogen peroxide can lead to damage to the mucous membrane and disrupt the functioning of the cilia, which epithelial cells are equipped with to cleanse the nasal cavity of microbes and foreign substances. You can read more about this method.

When answering the question “how to quickly cure a child’s runny nose,” doctors, in addition to the basic methods that we described above (humidifying and cooling the air, drinking plenty of fluids, putting saline in the nose or rinsing it, a protein-free diet, vibroacoustic therapy) include some drugs in the treatment regimen, which can help relieve symptoms and speed up the healing process.

However, when trying to find an effective children's remedy for the runny nose, it is important to remember that independent and uncontrolled use of medications can lead to negative consequences, become addictive and even cause complications. Only a doctor can formulate a treatment regimen based on the specifics of the process, the age of the child, and the nuances of his condition.

Vasoconstrictor drugs

Medicines that have a vasoconstrictor effect are the only means that quickly restore nasal breathing. They affect the tone of the vessels of the nasal mucosa: when used, the vessels narrow, swelling decreases and breathing through the nose becomes easier.

However, if these drugs are used for a long time (more than 5-7 days), this will lead to disruption of the natural regulation of vascular tone, that is, addiction will develop. The consequence of uncontrolled use of such drugs is chronic runny nose and nasal congestion in a child (vasomotor rhinitis), which are very difficult to treat. If the need to use vasoconstrictors persists for longer than 5-7 days, it is important to consult a doctor to determine further treatment tactics.

If a child often has a runny nose, what should you do? Under no circumstances should you resort to vasoconstrictor medications on your own, but consult a doctor and undergo an examination to determine the cause of the disease. It is important to remember that instilling vasoconstrictors into the nose is not a therapeutic procedure; it is aimed primarily at relieving symptoms and facilitating nasal breathing. In parallel with their use, it is necessary to take other measures to promote recovery.

Herbal remedies

Currently, many products are produced for the treatment of rhinitis in children, which include herbal components. These can be fatty and essential oils (sea buckthorn, fir), plant extracts, etc.

Herbal medicines are made in the form of drops, sprays, or in such a form as an ointment for the common cold for children. The active substances included in their composition (medicinal components of certain plants) are designed to have an antimicrobial effect, accelerate regeneration, soften and nourish the mucous membrane, and reduce inflammatory manifestations.

It is important to remember that the uncontrolled use of herbal medicines without taking into account the individual characteristics of the child and the nature of the process can cause serious harm to the health of a small patient. The fact is that many plant components can cause allergic reactions and irritate the nasal mucosa. The use of oil-based products can adversely affect the functions of the epithelium of the nasal cavity, causing the cilia to “stick together” and disrupt their work in removing microbes from the nasal passages. In addition, many herbal remedies have age restrictions: you must carefully read the instructions before using this or that remedy on a child.

The use of any herbal medicine must be agreed upon with the attending physician, who will decide whether there is a need to prescribe them and at what stage of the disease their use will be most effective.

Mucolytics

Drugs called mucolytics or secretolytics can help reduce the viscosity of mucus in the nasal cavity. They contain enzymes that dissolve mucus and make it more liquid. It is important that they can also affect mucous sputum, which is formed during viral, allergic, vasomotor rhinitis and in the treatment of purulent rhinitis in children.

However, doctors believe that it is easier to prevent the mucus from thickening in the child’s nasal cavity by ensuring the necessary humidity and temperature of the inhaled air, drinking plenty of fluids and regularly instilling saline into the nose than to cope with the problem with the help of certain medications. It is important to remember that the enzymes included in most mucolytic agents are protein in nature and can provoke an allergy attack in a child. Therefore, the need to prescribe them in complex treatment should only be determined by a doctor.

Anti-inflammatory drugs

When the question arises of how to cure a child’s runny nose, the doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs as part of a comprehensive treatment. As a rule, drugs in this group also have antipyretic and analgesic effects.

In a situation where a child has a high fever and runny nose, anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed to relieve general symptoms - fever, headache.

Before giving your child any anti-inflammatory drug, it is important to consult a doctor: sometimes parents try to “bring down” even the slightest fever, not realizing that fever is the most important defense mechanism in the body’s fight against infection. Therefore, doctors do not recommend giving antipyretic medications if the child has a runny nose and a temperature of 37 degrees - until the thermometer rises to 38.5 degrees or higher.

The exception is when the child does not tolerate high fever, complains of a severe headache or weakness, is vomiting, or is at risk of developing seizures. In addition, most anti-inflammatory drugs have a negative effect on the gastrointestinal mucosa, so they should be used with caution in children with a tendency to inflammatory or ulcerative processes in the stomach or intestines.

Antiviral drugs

Currently, the pharmaceutical industry produces various drugs with an antiviral effect for local and general use, which people are trying to use as an effective remedy for the common cold in children.

However, according to the famous pediatrician E.O. Komarovsky, all existing means inherently cannot have an effect on viruses. This is due to the peculiarities of the life activity of these microorganisms: in order to start living and multiplying, the virus must get inside a certain cell. And it is possible to destroy it only together with this cell. Therefore, even those agents that are effective in the fight against viruses in the laboratory cannot in any way affect these microaggressors in the body. In this regard, most drugs that are declared as antiviral cannot destroy the virus in any way.

Read more about the opinion of E.O. Komarovsky about antiviral drugs in the treatment and prevention of ARVI can be found in this video:

However, there are other opinions regarding the use of antiviral drugs to prevent ARVI. Thus, leading researcher at the Department of RVI in Children of the Research Institute of Children's Infections (Moscow), Doctor of Medical Sciences O.I. Afanasyeva believes that the use of certain antiviral drugs, in particular Cycloferon, helps increase the child’s body’s resistance to viral infections and activate immune resources when encountering an infection: the doctor’s opinion is based on the results of studies conducted in foreign and Russian clinics.

In any case, the decision on the need to use antiviral drugs for the prevention and treatment of viral infections should be made by the attending physician.

Antibiotics

The question often arises: will antibiotics help with a runny nose in a child? Doctors believe that in most cases these medications are not only ineffective, but can also cause significant harm to health. As we have already said, in the vast majority of cases, inflammation of the nasal membrane develops against the background of a viral infection. Antibacterial drugs do not act on viruses! But their introduction into the body causes addiction and increased resistance on the part of those bacteria that are present in the child’s body and could potentially cause a particular disease.

As is known, many inflammatory processes of a bacterial nature, for example, otitis media, sinusitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, etc. are caused by microbes that live in the human body and exhibit their pathogenic properties when immunity is reduced. For example, after a viral infection. If a child was given an antibacterial drug against the background of an acute respiratory viral infection, then if he subsequently develops a bacterial infection, the disease will be much less responsive to treatment.

Another unfavorable consequence that can occur if a child’s runny nose is treated with antibiotics is the development of allergies. Each contact with an antibacterial drug increases the risk of an allergic reaction. The more often parents resort to the unjustified use of various antibiotics, the narrower the range of medications becomes that will help in a situation where the use of these drugs will be truly necessary or even vital!

If purulent rhinitis occurs, treatment does not necessarily have to be based on the use of antibiotics. Even a change in the nature of the mucus (turbidity, the appearance of an unpleasant odor) and the appearance of other symptoms indicating the addition of a bacterial infection are in most cases not an indication for prescribing antibacterial therapy. It is enough to continue activities that help ease the passage of mucus from the nasal cavity, which we discussed above, as well as strengthen the body’s defenses. And in most situations, the body copes with the disease on its own.

In what cases is it indicated to prescribe an antibiotic for the common cold in children? When there is a risk of developing bacterial complications such as sinusitis (ethmoiditis, sinusitis, frontal sinusitis), as well as inflammation of the middle ear (otitis). If otitis occurs, antibacterial therapy may be prescribed, but this decision should only be made by the attending physician! The use of local antibacterial drugs is unacceptable.

According to E.O. Komarovsky, antibiotics, which are prescribed in the form of ointments, sprays, drops, are not able to create in the body the concentration necessary to destroy microbes. This means that this is the path to developing microbial resistance!

In addition, when it comes to the treatment of sinusitis that has arisen as a complication of acute rhinitis, antibiotics prescribed locally remain in the nasal cavity and do not reach the maxillary sinuses, where the inflammatory process occurs. You can read more about this.

Antiseptics

Often among the recommendations on how to treat a runny nose in children, there is advice on the use of antiseptics. These are substances that contain components that can act on bacteria in one way or another. These can be substances of plant (for example, eucalyptus leaf extract) or animal origin, silver, as well as medications (for example, sulfonamides).

Will antiseptics help cure a runny nose in a child? In most cases, their use is not particularly necessary. In addition, it is important to remember that the ingredients included in their composition can have an irritating effect on the inflamed mucous membrane of the child’s nose, and also cause the development of allergies. Only the attending physician can decide how justified and safe the use of a particular antiseptic is and give the correct recommendations for its use.

Inhalations

Are inhalations necessary for children with a runny nose? Inhalation means the child inhaling air containing substances that can have one or another therapeutic effect.

The most common type of inhalation is steam inhalation over a saucepan.

Parents can add various herbs, soda, or a decoction of potatoes, etc. The problem is that the concentration of active ingredients in such a vapor is very small, insufficient to provide any therapeutic effect. The main effect that such inhalations provide for children with a runny nose is moisturizing the mucous membrane. This is a useful property of steam, as it can lead to a decrease in the viscosity of mucus and the elimination of crusts.

However, it is necessary to take into account some nuances. The traditional method of “breathing over a saucepan” can cause burns to the respiratory tract, as well as injuries associated with overturning a vessel with hot liquid. Therefore, if there is a need to carry them out - and this issue must be resolved with a doctor - it is better to use a special device - a steam inhaler.

It is also important to remember that inhalations for children with a runny nose have contraindications: age under 7 years, elevated body temperature, a combination of inflammation in the nasal cavity and purulent processes (sinusitis, otitis, etc.).

On the Internet you can find many recommendations for inhalation with a nebulizer for a runny nose, recipes for children that parents can rely on when choosing treatment. What is a nebulizer? This is a special device that turns the medicine into very small particles (the so-called fine aerosol), which are inhaled by the child.

But is a nebulizer effective for a runny nose in children?

Pediatrician E.O. Komarovsky believes that its use for inflammation of the nasal mucosa will not be beneficial. Because the nebulizer was designed primarily for the treatment of diseases of the lower respiratory tract - when used, the medicine is sprayed into very small particles, the diameter of which is less than 10 microns. It does not linger in the upper respiratory tract, including the nasal cavity, but is directed to the lowermost parts of the respiratory system.

You can read more about the nuances of using a nebulizer for inhalation.

Inhalations are also sometimes carried out, in which essential oils are used for runny noses for children. They are carried out using an aroma lamp, or simply pour a few drops onto a piece of fabric and let the child breathe. However, the concentration of active substances during this procedure in the inhaled air is very small, and the healing properties of the oils do not have the desired effect on the healing process. In addition, it is necessary to remember that many essential oils are allergens.

It is important to note that if you follow the basic rules for treating inflammation in the nasal passages in a child (constant humidification of the air, instilling saline solution into the nose, etc.), in most cases there is no need for inhalation for a child with a runny nose.

Warming up the nose

Warming the nose when a child has a runny nose: this procedure is often considered an effective method of treating the disease. Parents apply a boiled egg, hot salt, paraffin to the area of ​​inflammation, or use a blue lamp, etc. But what can the effects of thermal procedures lead to during the inflammatory process in the nasal mucosa?

Exposure to heat causes blood vessels to dilate and increase blood flow to the area. In the initial stage of the disease, this can lead to activation of the inflammatory process. Warming the nose is strictly contraindicated if the child has an elevated body temperature, if there is a risk of developing purulent processes in the sinuses or otitis media.

However, it is possible to use warming up the nose for a runny nose in children at the final stages of the process: it can help speed up the processes of regeneration of the mucous membrane. However, before carrying out it, it is imperative to consult with your doctor!

Mustard plasters

Is it advisable to put mustard plasters on children with a runny nose? Typically this is not necessary. Mustard plasters are a so-called distracting procedure, the task of which is to activate blood circulation and irritate the skin in reflexogenic zones - at points (feet, calf muscles) that are connected to the place where the inflammatory process takes place. Doctor E.O. Komarovsky believes that there is justification for using mustard plasters in the recovery period in the treatment of diseases such as bronchitis, pneumonia, sinusitis, that is, diseases that require fairly active rehabilitation measures.

When it comes to how to cure a runny nose in a child, there is, as a rule, no need to use mustard plasters - in most cases, if you follow all the necessary measures that we talked about above, the body will cope with the disease on its own.

You can read more about the use of mustard plasters for a runny nose.

Acupressure

Acupressure for a runny nose in children is associated with an effect on certain reflexogenic zones: it can help ease nasal breathing and speed up the healing process. It is important to study the technique of carrying it out: it is best if a specialist introduces the technique to parents.

The technique of acupressure in children is similar to that in adults; you can read about it in detail.

Sometimes parents believe that treating a runny nose in children with folk remedies will quickly help cope with the disease. There is a myth that such methods may be safer and at the same time more effective in treating the disease. However, doctors say that the use of many traditional methods will not only not benefit the child, but can also seriously harm and cause complications. Herbal and other components included in the composition of the products often cause irritation - this is especially important when it comes to young children, since their mucous membranes are more sensitive to the effects of aggressive substances.

In addition, when we talk about such an aspect as a runny nose and its treatment with folk remedies in children, it is necessary to remember the high risk of developing allergic reactions. Any component can cause allergies; there is a risk of both local and general reactions.

It is also important to understand that, relying on folk remedies for treating runny nose in children and neglecting the basic methods that we talked about above, and - if necessary - medications prescribed by a doctor, you can waste time and get various complications. Therefore, it is better to use drugs with proven effectiveness in treatment.

Next, we will look at the most popular folk remedies for the common cold for children, and also talk about what their use in the treatment of diseases in childhood can lead to from the point of view of official medicine.

Kalanchoe

You can often find recommendations for using Kalanchoe juice for children with a runny nose. The juice of this plant actually has anti-inflammatory properties, since it contains various vitamins, microelements, bioflavonoids, etc.

However, is it worth using Kalanchoe for a runny nose in children? Pediatrician E.O. Komarovsky does not recommend doing this, since when using this folk remedy, many children experience a deterioration in their condition: it is very difficult to predict the individual reaction of a child to the use of Kalanchoe juice. Possible irritation of the mucous membrane, aggravating the course of the inflammatory process, the development of allergic reactions, etc.

Therefore, despite the medicinal properties of Kalanchoe, when children have a runny nose, it should be used with extreme caution and after mandatory consultation with the attending physician!

Aloe

There are also tips for use when a child has a runny nose. It is believed that the use of this remedy can help due to its anti-inflammatory properties. However, it is important to know that no studies have been conducted to confirm the effectiveness of using aloe for inflammation in the nasal cavity in children. All preparations containing aloe juice are not recommended for children under 12 years of age without prior consultation with a doctor.

The use of aloe can lead to the development of allergic reactions - both local and general, up to the development of Quincke's edema and anaphylactic shock: conditions that threaten the baby's life!

Onion

One of the popular folk remedies is for children with a runny nose. To do this, it is recommended to instill an aqueous solution of onion juice and mix it with oil, honey and other ingredients. However, it is important to remember that onion juice has a strong irritant effect on the mucous membrane, which can cause burns, causes damage to epithelial components, disrupting the formation of mucus and the functioning of cilia, which help remove toxins and microbes from the nasal cavity. All this leads to the development of a protracted process and complications.

In addition, the use of this remedy for the common cold in children can cause allergic reactions. Therefore, doctors do not recommend using it for topical use. They believe that the best use of onions for the prevention and treatment of ARVI is to include them in a child’s diet!

Beet

In folk medicine it is sometimes used for runny noses in children. It is believed that the juice of this plant helps reduce inflammation in the nasal cavity. However, the effectiveness of this technique has not been proven, so it is more rational to use products that have proven their effectiveness and safety, so as not to waste time and prevent the development of complications.

It is much more useful to use the properties of this product by including it in the diet - the beneficial substances included in the root vegetable will help strengthen the body's defenses.

Oak bark

There is such a folk remedy for the runny nose for children as. It is used to prepare decoctions that are dropped into a child’s nose - it is believed that the substances contained in oak bark help reduce the viscosity of mucus and reduce inflammatory manifestations.

However, can we say that oak bark is a good remedy for runny noses in children? The instructions for use do not indicate that this herbal medicine can be used to treat inflammatory processes in the nasal cavity. At the same time, it can be used to prepare a decoction for gargling in the treatment of nasopharyngitis. But this should be done with caution, since many components of oak bark can cause allergies in children.

Oils

Also, supporters of traditional medicine may recommend using this or that oil for the common cold in children. It is believed that their use will help soften the inflamed mucous membrane. There are recommendations for the use of the following oils:

• when a child has a runny nose. It contains substances that help activate the regeneration processes of the mucous membrane, which may be important at the final stage of treatment. The use of this product is contraindicated in children under 12 years of age.
• Essential for a runny nose in children - there are very different reviews about its use in childhood. In some cases, a positive effect is observed, which is associated with the presence of anti-inflammatory substances and antioxidants in its composition. In other cases, parents talk about its ineffectiveness, and in some cases, about a worsening of the condition, which is associated with the occurrence of irritation and allergic reactions. At the same time, the instructions for use contain contraindications for the use of thuja oil under 18 years of age.
• Essential for runny nose is recommended for children to relieve inflammatory manifestations and accelerate the regeneration processes of mucous membranes.

In any case, when it comes to the use of fatty and essential oils in the treatment of runny nose in children with folk remedies, consultation with a doctor is necessary before using them. It is important to know that oil, when instilled into the nose, causes gluing of the cilia that epithelial cells are equipped with (their movement is an important mechanism for cleansing the nose of foreign elements), which disrupts the protective properties of the mucous membrane and can complicate the healing process.

In addition, it must be remembered that vegetable oils contain components that can cause the development of allergies in a child. That is why the question of the need to use such folk remedies for the common cold in children should be decided only by the attending physician.

Prevention

Prevention of runny nose in children should include a set of measures aimed at both activating local protective mechanisms in the child’s upper respiratory tract and strengthening the immune system as a whole.

In order for the nasal mucosa to fully realize its protective properties, it is important to prevent an increase in the viscosity of the mucus and the formation of crusts in the nose.

• It is necessary that the air that the child breathes is always sufficiently moist and cool. Regulate the temperature in the room - the higher it is, the less moisture remains in the air; you can also use various evaporators and humidifiers.
• It is important that the child consumes enough fluid - dehydration leads to drying out of the mucous membranes.

Physiological norm of fluid intake for children

• In addition, in order to prevent mucus from thickening and to prevent the appearance of crusts, it is recommended to instill saline solution into the child’s nose daily (during periods of increased risk of illness, this can be done several times a day).

Measures to strengthen the immune system

When it comes to allergic rhinitis, the best way to prevent it is to eliminate allergens: regular wet cleaning and maintaining an optimal microclimate in the room (if the allergen is house dust). Use of protective equipment or change of place of residence - if we are talking about an allergy caused by pollen.

Prevention of vasomotor rhinitis is the competent use of vasoconstrictor drugs (no more than 5-7 days).

Preventive measures also include a competent approach to antibiotic treatment. Their unauthorized use and non-compliance with treatment regimens weaken the body’s defenses and increase the risk of developing infectious diseases, including the runny nose in children.

Conclusion

There is often a situation when parents get carried away with searching for one or another remedy that will provide treatment for a runny nose in children quickly and effectively, and forget about the simplest and most effective measures that can significantly alleviate the child’s condition and activate their own defenses. These include cleaning, humidifying and cooling the air in the room where the child is, rinsing the nose, proper drinking regimen, and diet. These simple measures, combined with those that support the immune system and replenish the body’s resources, will help cope with the disease as soon as possible and avoid complications.

FAQ:

Is it possible to bathe a child with a runny nose?

Parents often ask if it is possible to bathe a child with a runny nose. In most cases, inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nasal cavity in a baby is not a contraindication to bathing. On the contrary, contact with water helps to reduce the viscosity of mucus and soak the crusts.

You should refrain from bathing when the child has a runny nose and a temperature of 38 degrees or higher, when the child’s general condition is suffering. In this case, it is recommended to wipe with cool water.

Is it possible to walk with a child with a runny nose?

The answer to this question depends, first of all, on the cause of the disease. If a child has an allergic runny nose caused by house dust and the elements it contains, a walk in the fresh air will bring relief. If the allergy is caused by plant pollen, then walking can lead to an exacerbation of symptoms. Also, if inflammation in the nasal cavity is associated with ARVI, then while walking it is better to avoid contact of the patient with other children.

Also the answer to the question “can you walk with your child if you have a runny nose?” depends on the child’s condition and weather conditions. If you have a high temperature, lethargy, or weakness, it is better to stay at home. You should not go outside when the air temperature outside is below zero, there is wind or other unfavorable weather conditions.

How many days does a child’s runny nose last?

How long does a child's runny nose last? The average duration of the disease, when it comes to inflammation occurring against the background of a viral infection, is 5-8 days. This is due to the peculiarities of the immune response: this is the period required for the production of interferons and antibodies (substances responsible for protecting the body from infection).

If during this time the child’s runny nose does not go away, what to do? It is imperative to consult a doctor so that he can help determine the causes of the protracted course of the disease. These may be developed complications, for example, the addition of a bacterial infection and the development of sinusitis and otitis media.

A persistent runny nose in a child may be evidence of an allergic process - in this case, an examination by an allergist and determination of the cause of the disease is indicated.

Also, if a child’s runny nose does not go away for a long time, this may be a sign of a violation of the regulation of vascular tone, including that associated with the use of vasoconstrictor drugs - vasomotor rhinitis.

How to soothe a child's feet with a runny nose?

In most cases, this procedure is not the best remedy for a runny nose for children. Just like mustard plasters, thermal procedures for the feet are aimed at stimulating reflexogenic zones. They cannot be used in the acute period of the disease, at elevated temperatures. But they can be effective in the recovery period of treatment of diseases such as bronchitis, pneumonia, when there is a need to increase blood flow in the affected organ by stimulating active points on the foot.

When looking for an answer to the question “how to cure a child’s runny nose at home,” you should not consider such a procedure as warming up the feet: this disease, with proper treatment, which we discussed above, goes away quickly enough and does not require active rehabilitation measures.

How to treat an incipient runny nose in a child?

When a child develops a runny nose, a number of measures can be taken to support his defenses and prevent the development of the disease. Firstly, it is necessary to ensure the full performance of the functions of the nasal mucosa, which is responsible for protecting the nasal passages from infection.

First aid for a child with a runny nose is to ensure the correct microclimate in the room: the sick person should breathe moist, cool and clean air. It is also important to provide your baby with enough fluids and put saline solution into the nose.

How to cure an incipient runny nose in a child? Another set of measures should be aimed at strengthening the body's defenses. When the first symptoms of the disease appear, it is recommended to switch the baby to a protein-free diet, which reduces the load on the lymphatic system and liver.

It is also recommended to include vibroacoustic therapy in the treatment of a runny nose in a child at the initial stage: the use of Vitafon devices activates the body’s defenses, has a beneficial effect on the lymphatic system, and reduces the toxic load on the body.

What should I do if I cannot cure my child’s runny nose?

Why does a child’s runny nose not go away for a long time? The cause may be the development of chronic inflammation in the nasal cavity, changes in the mucous membrane (thickening or thinning).

If a child has a frequent runny nose, the cause may be allergies, impaired vascular tone associated with abuse of vasoconstrictor drugs and other factors.

Also, if a child has a long runny nose, the cause may be a deviated nasal septum, an injury to the nose, overgrowth of the adenoids, etc.

In any case, to understand how to get rid of a runny nose in a child, you need to see a doctor to undergo a comprehensive examination that will help determine the cause of the disease and select effective treatment.

Will homeopathy help with runny nose in children?

Representatives of the World Health Organization believe that “the use of homeopathy has no evidence base, and in cases where it is used as an alternative to primary treatment, it poses a real threat to people’s health and lives.”

Doctors claim that the effectiveness of a method such as homeopathy for the common cold for children, as well as for other diseases, is associated with the placebo effect, that is, with the patient’s belief that the treatment is helping. You can learn more about the principles of homeopathy from this TV show by E.O. Komarovsky.

Important to remember that homeopathy is by no means the most effective remedy for a runny nose for children! Moreover, if the disease becomes protracted, if there is a risk of developing purulent complications, such as otitis or sinusitis, etc., in no case should you rely on this method of treatment: this can be fraught with serious consequences, including the death of the child. Only complex treatment using antibacterial drugs under the supervision of specialists will help cope with purulent-inflammatory processes in the body.

List of used literature:

1. Bogomilsky M.R., Chistyakova V.R. Pediatric otorhinolaryngology. M.: GEOTAR-Media, 2006.
2. Karpova E.P., Bozhatova M.P. Rational methods of treating ARVI in children // Farmateka, 2008;
3. Kryukov A.I. Acute rhinitis. In the book: Otorhinolaryngology: national guide / Ed. V.T. Palchuna. M.: GEOTAR-Media, 2008
4. Lazarev V.N., Suzdaltsev A.E., Ivoylov A.Yu., Babeshko E.A. Methods for studying adaptation processes and their correction in inflammatory diseases of the paranasal sinuses in children: Methodological recommendations, Moscow, 2002.
5. Radtsig E.Yu. Features of the course and treatment of acute rhinitis in infants and young children / Breast Cancer, 2011.
6. Romantsov M.G., Golofeevsky S.V. The effectiveness of Cycloferon in the treatment of acute respiratory viral infections and influenza during the epidemic rise of respiratory morbidity (2009 – 2010) / Antibiotics and chemotherapy, 2010.
7. Sinopalnikov A.I., Klyachkina I.L. The place of mucolytic drugs in the complex therapy of respiratory diseases / Russian Medical Bulletin No. 4.
8. Chuchalin A.G. Avdeev S.N. Rational pharmacotherapy of respiratory diseases: Hand. for medical practitioners / Litterra, 2004

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A runny nose (rhinitis) is an inflammation of the inner lining of the nose, which is a reaction to the action of aggressive agents and is accompanied by mucous discharge. Before treating a runny nose in a 3-year-old child, you need to consult a pediatrician. It is important to choose age-appropriate medications to avoid an allergic reaction. You can also use traditional medicine, but combining them with medications.

Features of the treatment of different types of runny nose

A runny nose in children can be infectious or allergic. Infectious is the most common type of runny nose, caused by exposure to microbes and accompanied by headache, fever and general lethargy. It is not recommended to treat such rhinitis on your own; immediate consultation with a specialist is necessary.

The doctor prescribes drops with sea water, vasoconstrictors, antiseptic, antiviral drugs. If you have a fever, you may need to use antipyretic medications. Antibiotics for a runny nose in a 4-year-old child are prescribed only in extreme cases, in the presence of complications.

Allergies are caused by substances, odors, etc. that a particular child cannot tolerate (for example, pollen from flowering plants, cat hair, and even ordinary house dust). At the same time, allergic rhinitis can be quite easily cured with home remedies, especially when used at the initial stage of the disease.

Therapy for allergic rhinitis should be comprehensive. First of all, the allergen should be identified and its effect on the child’s body should be eliminated. The use of antihistamines, immunomodulators, vasoconstrictors, and corticosteroids is required.

Use of medications

To cure a runny nose in a 3-year-old child, it is necessary to use medications from different groups. It is necessary to select drugs in accordance with the age, individual characteristics of the child’s body, as well as the type of disease.

Sea water drops

Thanks to the natural composition, medications based on sea water do not injure the mucous membrane and have a gentle effect on it. Children 1-2 years old are recommended to use such drugs only in the form of drops. Otherwise, the substance may enter the cavity of the inner ear, causing inflammation. Sprays are suitable for older children, but they should be used with caution.

One of the most common products for children is Aqua Maris. Suitable for the treatment of infectious and allergic rhinitis, used for prevention and hygiene of the nasal cavity. The product should be instilled or injected 2-3 times a day, one drop/injection into each nostril.

The medicine is safe for children. However, an allergic reaction may develop, accompanied by swelling of the mucous membrane. In this case, the use of the drug must be stopped, and if symptoms are severe, consult a specialist.

Another product is Aqualor Baby. It has a completely natural composition and does not contain preservatives. The drug cleanses the nasal passages, relieves inflammation, and reduces swelling. It is necessary to put drops in the nose, and then tell the child to blow his nose to remove all the mucus.

Vasoconstrictor drugs

When you have a runny nose, the blood vessels in your nose dilate, which leads to swelling. The use of vasoconstrictor drugs helps to narrow blood vessels, which reduces swelling and restores breathing. But as soon as the effect of the medicine wears off, the unpleasant symptoms will return.

These products should not be used for longer than 4 days. Otherwise, so-called medicinal rhinitis may develop. The vessels will cease to function normally, they will be constantly dilated. As a result, the baby will suffer from a constant runny nose. The mucous membrane dries out very much, crusts form on its surface, which leads to nasal congestion.

Here are effective vasoconstrictors for children that quickly eliminate unpleasant symptoms:

• Nazol Baby. The active ingredient of the drug is phenylephrine. After using the medicine, tissue swelling is relieved, which makes breathing easier for the baby. The drug is safe and suitable for children from birth. Babies under one year of age need to instill 1 drop of the product no more than 4 times a day, and older children - 2 drops 4-5 times a day. If side effects occur (dizziness, sleep disturbances), it is recommended to stop using the drug.
• Otrivin Baby. Its composition is the same as that of saline solution. It moisturizes mucous membranes and does not cause irritation.
• Vibrocil. Contains phenylephrine, dimethindene, lavender oil. Before using the medicine, the spout must be cleaned. The drug may cause burning and soreness in the nasopharynx.

When using vasoconstrictor drugs, be sure to follow the dosage prescribed by your doctor. The drug penetrates the bloodstream through the mucous membrane. Excessive amounts of the substance can affect all blood vessels in the body and cause high blood pressure.

Antiviral agents

Antiviral drugs are used to treat colds accompanied by a runny nose. Also, their use is recommended in autumn and spring for preventive purposes during seasonal diseases.

Such medications are available in the form of tablets, capsules, and drops. Children can be prescribed Oxolinic ointment for the treatment and prevention of colds. It destroys pathogenic microorganisms and prevents their penetration into the body through the nasal mucosa. It is necessary to smear the baby's chest and nasal turbinates.

Antibiotics

If the cause of a runny nose is a bacterial infection, antibiotics are required. They are also used for sinusitis. Neomycin, Bioparox and others are suitable for children. Can be used in tablet form for internal use. But the medicine can negatively affect the gastric microflora.

To treat clear snot, you can use drops and sprays containing antibiotics. Such drugs have a local effect and are less likely to cause adverse reactions. But they should be used no longer than 7 days.

Folk remedies for runny nose

You can treat a runny nose in children at home. This therapy has a number of advantages:

• the absence of harmful components in home remedies, including those that are addictive and provoke inappropriate reactions;
• availability and low price of raw materials (in most cases it is always available at home);
• ease of manual production and use;
• Possibility of use for children (after consultation with your doctor).

However, the use of folk remedies has some disadvantages. There is a high risk of error in determining the type of runny nose. At the same time, attempts to treat allergic rhinitis with home remedies, at best, will not give any positive effect, and at worst, will lead to complications and more serious diseases.

Home treatment of young children should be carried out with the approval of the supervising specialist. Failure to comply with manufacturing and use technologies for medicinal formulations can lead to negative consequences.

Warming up your feet

If your child has snot, you can deal with it by warming up your feet. The first method is to immerse your feet up to your ankles in an aqueous solution of salt and mustard heated to a comfortable temperature (1 tablespoon per 5 liters). The procedure is carried out before bed and lasts up to 15 minutes, after which warm socks are put on the feet, the patient is put into bed and covered with a blanket.

The second method is also used before bedtime and involves applying mustard plasters to the calves and feet, wrapping the legs with cloth and putting on socks.

Warming up the sinuses

Boiled potatoes, boiled eggs or salt are used for the procedures. The corresponding component (any of those named) at a tolerable temperature is wrapped in cloth or placed in a bag, applied to the nose on both sides and held until it cools.

The method is not used for patients with high fever. Otherwise, it may increase even more, which is fraught with various complications.

Water inhalations

The optimal device for their implementation is an inhaler. If it is not available, use small pans or other containers designed for approximately 1.5 liters of liquid. The solution is prepared from a decoction of chamomile with soda, pine buds, mint or sage oil. With traditional inhalation, the finished broth is cooled to 40 degrees, the child bends over it, covers himself with a blanket and inhales the fumes for 10 minutes. After the procedure, you cannot go outside - you should wrap the baby in a blanket so that he goes to sleep. Therefore, it is advisable to carry it out immediately before bedtime.

Homemade drops

They are made from aloe juice, honey, and fresh beets and are instilled 3 times a day. It is possible to lubricate tampons with this preparation and insert them into the nasal passages. However, their use is extremely uncomfortable and is unlikely to work with small children.

There are more effective folk remedies to combat rhinitis. For example, garlic and onions perfectly eliminate its symptoms. However, they should be used very carefully, since there is a high probability of damage to the mucous membrane, especially in children.

Thus, traditional and non-traditional remedies can be used to treat children's runny nose. But be sure to consult a doctor before choosing medications to avoid negative consequences.

Children, due to the relative weakness of their immunity, often suffer from a runny nose. Rhinitis can be called one of the most common childhood ailments. Sometimes the disease has obvious causes, but sometimes the nose “blocks up” in a child who is outwardly completely healthy, and apart from impaired nasal breathing, there are no other complaints. Be that as it may, parents want to help the baby as soon as possible. It is not always possible to see a doctor, because clinics are closed on weekends and holidays. It is not customary to call an ambulance with complaints of a runny nose.

Prescribing medications to a child on your own is unsafe and risky, especially if we are talking about a small toddler. Parents can come to the aid of folk remedies that help get rid of a runny nose quite quickly.

Why does a runny nose appear?

A runny nose (rhinitis) is difficult to consider as an independent disease; it is usually a manifestation of a variety of disorders in the body.

The nose stops breathing partially or completely due to inflammation of the mucous membranes of this organ. Most often, this is a consequence of resistance to pathogens and viruses. As you know, viruses enter the body mainly through the respiratory system. The nose is the first line of defense; most often, invading viruses manage to pass further - into the nasopharynx, into the larynx.

Inflammation of the mucous membrane in this case is an attempt by the body not to let the harmful agent pass further.

The episode of Dr. Komarovsky’s program about the causes and methods of treating children’s runny nose can be seen in the following video.

But several people inhale the same influenza virus through airborne droplets. But not everyone will get sick. Whether a runny nose starts or not depends not only on the state of the baby’s immunity. The development of rhinitis is greatly facilitated by various factors, such as dusty or polluted air, hypothermia. There is another type of runny nose - non-infectious.

This includes nasal congestion due to allergies (allergic rhinitis) and vasomotor rhinitis (associated with disturbances in the processes in the autonomic nervous system). They arise somewhat differently, as a result of narrowing of the lumen of blood vessels during a reaction to an antigen or vascular nervous pathology. Acute rhinitis - occurs as a reaction to a virus (less often to bacteria).

With it, the swelling of the mucous membranes is quite strong, and it affects both halves of the nose. With it, the child may experience increased lacrimation, redness of the wings of the nose and the release of liquid mucus; people say “running nose”. If such a runny nose is treated incorrectly or not treated at all, after 3-4 weeks the process will become chronic.

With it, the nose will remain stuffy for a long time, the child’s sense of smell will noticeably decrease, the discharge from liquid will turn into thick, sometimes purulent, the mucous membrane will sometimes dry out, and crusts will form in the nasal passages.

• Nasal breathing disorders in children occur due to various diseases:
• ARVI and influenza.
• Scarlet fever.
• Measles.
• Allergy.
• Vegetovascular dystonia.
• Proliferation of the palatine tonsil (adenoids).

Other diseases.

A runny nose in a child can be mild, or it can be accompanied by fever, loss of appetite, headaches and severe general weakness. It is impossible to predict exactly what symptoms will accompany rhinitis; everything is purely individual.

A runny nose in itself does not pose a danger to a child. But its consequences can be quite serious. These are sinusitis, sinusitis, meningitis, inflammatory processes in the inner ear, and as a result - complete or partial hearing loss, encephalitis and a number of other unpleasant diagnoses. Therefore, there are some indications for immediate consultation with a doctor if you have rhinitis:

• If your child's nasal discharge is gray-green or green in color and has a very unpleasant odor. This may indicate a severe bacterial infection. This condition requires prompt prescription of antibiotics.
• If, in addition to a runny nose, the child has pain in the frontal region, under the eyes, in the area of ​​the paranasal sinuses. This may be a symptom of sinusitis, inflammation of the hearing organs. A child in this situation does not need onion drops in the nose, but serious therapy with the use of antimicrobial agents, hormonal and anti-inflammatory drugs.
• If, after a head injury or fall, the child’s nose is blocked and a thin, clear discharge appears, you should urgently take him to the hospital! Such symptoms may indicate a disturbance in brain activity; this condition requires prompt examination and hospitalization.
• If blood is noticeable in the mucus discharged by a child with a runny nose, ichor or clots. This may indicate the traumatic nature of rhinitis, a foreign body in the respiratory system, the baby needs to be examined as soon as possible.

Effective folk remedies

In most cases of acute infectious rhinitis, a child can be quite effectively helped using alternative medicine.

Fresh vegetable juices

The most popular way to quickly relieve nasal congestion is to give your child onion juice. To do this, you need to grate the onion on a fine grater, squeeze out the pulp using a piece of gauze, and dilute the resulting juice in half with saline or boiled water. You can drip the onion preparation from 2 to 6 times a day.

This recipe is not suitable for children who have not yet turned 2 years old, since onion juice, even diluted, acts quite aggressively and can cause burns to the delicate mucous membranes of children. For children over 5-6 years old, you can add a little honey to the onion drops, this will have an additional anti-inflammatory effect.

Children under 2 years old can use beet or carrot juice in their nose with caution. To do this, using a juicer or a fine grater and a piece of gauze, you need to squeeze out the juice, dilute it with boiled water in half and drop 1-2 drops into each nasal passage up to 5 times a day. Infants may choke when instilled; it is better for them to place small cotton wool pads soaked in beetroot juice in both nasal passages.

Oil mixtures

A good effect for a runny nose is provided by drugs that will have a gentle effect on the nasal passages. These include mixtures that include oil - sunflower, linseed, vaseline.

A popular recipe is based on mixing finely chopped 2-3 cloves of garlic with 30 ml of sunflower oil. You need to infuse the drug for at least 10-12 hours, then strain and drop 1-2 drops into the child’s nose 3 times a day. This recipe should not be used to treat rhinitis in children under 6-7 years of age.

Another effective way to relieve nasal congestion is based on sea buckthorn oil mixed with calendula juice. This recipe can be used even by small children who have not yet turned 3 years old. The ingredients are mixed in half. The resulting oil mixture does not need to be dripped into the nose; it is enough to soak cotton swabs in it, which are placed in the nasal passages for half an hour. The procedure is repeated 3 times a day.

Children over five years old can drop a mixture of two oils - thyme and olive - into their nose. Proportions -1:1. You need to drip 2 times a day, 2-3 drops in each nostril.

Plants

Among indoor plants that can quickly cope with a runny nose, the leader is aloe. The juice of this plant has an antimicrobial effect, softens the mucous membrane, and relieves swelling. To prepare the drops, you need to cut off one fleshy aloe leaf and squeeze the juice out of it. Mix the resulting liquid with a drop of honey and drop it into the child’s nose once a day, preferably before bedtime.

St. John's wort will come to the aid of a child who is overcome by a runny nose. The dry collection of this medicinal plant (1 teaspoon) should be mixed with a glass of boiled water and boiled in a water bath for a quarter of an hour. Cool, strain through several layers of gauze. Drop the liquid into the nose of a child aged two years and older no more than 4 times a day.

Warming up

Freshly cooked millet porridge should be cooled to a warm state, formed into small balls, placed in a cloth and applied to the maxillary sinuses. Some recipes use a boiled chicken egg instead of porridge. They carefully “roll out” the area of ​​the nose, sinuses, and forehead above the bridge of the nose.

Inhalations

Inhaling the vapors of medicinal herbs and essential oils allows you to quickly cope with a runny nose. The most effective procedures are based on pine and eucalyptus oils, fir oil. Sage, chamomile, and calendula are excellent raw materials for inhalation. Inhalation can be carried out over a container with a hot decoction of herbs, to which a few drops of oil are added. But it is better if you have a special device at home for such purposes - an inhaler or nebulizer. This way there will be no fear that the child will get burns of the mucous membranes of the respiratory organs with steam if he inhales too much.

Rinse

You can use regular salt to rinse your nose when you have a runny nose. To do this, a tablespoon of salt should be dissolved in a half-liter container of boiled water. You should rinse your nasal passages with saline solution several times a day, this will relieve swelling and restore nasal breathing.

The danger of self-medication

Parents, even very attentive ones, who are carried away by preparing nasal drops from vegetables and fruits, may not notice important clinical manifestations when the nature of the runny nose begins to change. Thus, they may not notice the transition to a new stage in time, which will then affect the timing of treatment of a runny nose in a child, because doctors will have to treat severe complications of ordinary rhinitis using completely traditional methods.

Often, a mother persistently treats her child’s runny nose, but there is no reaction to any medications.

The fact is that diagnosing allergic rhinitis at home on your own is quite difficult. And vegetable juices in the nose will only increase the swelling of the respiratory organs, since they also contain allergens. What can we say about drops with honey!

What not to do

• You should not carry out any heating if there is purulent discharge from the nose and suspected sinusitis. Heat in this situation can aggravate the problem, the inflammation will only intensify. Also, warming up is strictly contraindicated at elevated body temperatures.
• You cannot blindly trust all the recipes for a runny nose published on the Internet by “knowledgeable” people. Thus, mothers who advise others to wash their children’s noses from the inside with laundry soap for rhinitis are risking the health of their child. Laundry soap, coming into contact with inflamed mucous membranes, irritates them and provokes further spread of infection.
• The positive effect of the laundry soap that they write about can, with a stretch, be explained by the same irritating effect. Soap causes the baby to sneeze; during this reflex, the mucus moves away faster. However, then the congestion will certainly return, and the runny nose may become even worse.
• When placing turunda and cotton balls with medicine in the baby’s nose, you should not make them too small, so that the baby does not accidentally inhale them.

Adviсe

• Before instilling any products into the nose, you should prepare the mucous membrane, after pre-rinsing. Only then can you drip the prepared drug, both medicinal and folk.
• If a child often suffers from a runny nose, you need to pay attention to the air condition in the apartment, Where does he live. Perhaps it is too dry; the mucous membrane inside the nose dries out and inflammation begins. Ventilate the house more often, do wet cleaning, and humidify the air. To do this, you can buy a humidifier or regularly hang wet towels over the radiators. The best indicators for children's health are as follows: air temperature is about 19 degrees, humidity is about 60%.
• When treating a child with a runny nose, you need to provide him with plenty of warm drinks. This is necessary so that the mucous membranes of the nose, already inflamed, dry out less.
• A child's runny nose is not a reason to refuse walks. In any weather, even in the rain (under an umbrella), you can take short walks outside, since fresh air is very important for restoring breathing through the nose.
• You should not limit your child’s movement. If he wants, let him run and jump; active movements improve blood supply to the body, including the nasal mucosa.
• When treating allergic rhinitis, folk remedies are undesirable, almost all of them can also be allergens. It is important to eliminate the main antigen; for this it is better to go to the hospital, where they will do a special test (nasal swab).
• Vasomotor rhinitis should not be treated with folk remedies, since its causes lie in vascular nervous disorders, it will be better if, with this form of runny nose, the child receives therapy under the supervision of a doctor.

Before you start treating your baby for a runny nose with folk remedies, especially if he is not yet 1 year old, consult a doctor, because even harmless, at first glance, herbal preparations that you prepare yourself can harm the child.

At the age of 3, the child communicates a lot and begins to go to kindergarten. Therefore, infectious diseases are inevitable. They are often accompanied by runny nasal discharge. How to treat a runny nose in a 3-year-old child?

Causes and symptoms

Most often, a runny nose in children 3 years old occurs as a result of a cold. Microbes, penetrating the respiratory tract, settle on the surface of the mucous membrane and their numbers increase sharply. Snot is the immune system's response to an infection. In addition to pathogens, other factors also cause a runny nose:

• Foreign object (small part of a toy, etc.).
• Pathology of the nasal septum - curvature after injury or congenital defect.
• Allergic reaction.
• Severe stress.

The disease goes through different stages from beginning to end and lasts from a week to 10 or more days. It can vary in severity and become more complicated in the absence of proper treatment.

Symptoms of a runny nose are immediately noticeable and easy to identify. First of all:

• Mucus is discharged from the nose, sometimes profusely. At the age of three years, a baby can blow his nose out on his own; if not, he needs help with a special device.
• The nose does not allow air to pass through well, as the mucous membrane becomes inflamed and swollen. Consequently, it becomes difficult to breathe, especially at night.
• The skin on and around the nose turns red. Firstly, from swelling, and secondly, with frequent use of a handkerchief or napkin, irritation of the skin occurs.
• Cough. Due to the fact that the infection enters not only the nose, but also the respiratory tract, a cough occurs. It can be dry or moist with slight mucus discharge.
• Chills, increased body temperature. As the body fights infection, the temperature increases, sometimes up to 38 degrees.
• Decreased appetite. With a cold, the child’s general well-being worsens, including appetite.

It is necessary to treat a runny nose in children 3 years of age. The baby is developing rapidly, a constantly stuffy nose affects the formation of facial bones. Frequent infections weaken the immune system and negatively affect hematopoiesis and the functioning of internal organs.

How to treat?

To make a runny nose go away faster, create the necessary conditions to improve the baby’s condition.

• In the room where the child spends most of the time, maintain the temperature between 18-23 degrees.
• Use a special humidifier to prevent the mucous membrane in your nose from drying out.
• When going to bed, place a pillow so that your head is higher and mucus does not accumulate in the nasal cavities.
• Starting from the age of 2, children should be taught to clean their nose properly. You need to blow your nose out one at a time, from each nostril. Otherwise, nasal swelling will worsen.
• Teach your child not to leave mucus in the nose or suck it in. This way the infection gets deeper into the body and affects more organs.
• Make sure that handkerchiefs or napkins are clean.
• Give more warm liquid. If the baby does not want water, then alternate tea and fruit juice, cook compote or liquid jelly.
• Try not to create a stressful environment. During this period, children are very vulnerable and react painfully to criticism or scolding. Play with them often and be patient. Then the disease will recede faster.

Success in the treatment of any disease depends on timely intervention. Don’t delay going to the doctor, it won’t go away on its own.

Procrastination can result in a chronic form of the disease or serious complications.

Get rid of a runny nose with inhalation

• There are many ways to combat rhinitis. One of them is inhalation. 3 years is the age when you can use various types of inhalers. They come in different types and forms. For example, a nebulizer. Easy to use:
• Place the required amount of inhalation solution or medicine in a special container; you can use mineral water.
• Put a mask on your child.
• Plug it into the network.

The baby breathes steam for several minutes. At this time, the necessary components of the medicine enter the infected areas and eliminate microbes and the inflammatory process. The mucous membranes are moisturized and their functions are restored as soon as possible.

Such inhalations are carried out 1-2 times a day. Among the advantages: ease of use, efficiency. The disadvantages of a nebulizer include cost and noise. If the relatively high price pays off, then the noise may frighten a small child.

Drugs in drops

• Most often, to cure snot in a child, special medications are used in drops. There are many types and names of them. Depending on the diagnosis, the following are used:
• Vasoconstrictor;
• Antibacterial;
• Antiseptic;

Ask your pediatrician exactly what medications your child needs. Self-medication is strictly prohibited, since it is dangerous to use medications without a doctor’s recommendation.

However, you can familiarize yourself with those that are most often used and have lasting positive results.

• There are a huge number of drugs in drops that cure rhinitis in modern medicine. Of these, only a few are recommended for children over 3 years of age. For example:
• Otrivin;
• Snoop;

Tizin for children.

Otrivin Moisturizing, vasoconstrictor. The active element is xylometazoline. Used to treat all types of runny nose.

Relieves swelling, facilitates mucus evacuation.

• You can treat a runny nose in children with this drug 2 times a day. It is necessary to instill 1 or 2 drops. If Otrivin is taken uncontrolled for a long time, side effects are possible. They are expressed in the form:
• Nausea;
• Headache;
• Increased dryness in the nasal cavity;
• Redness;
• Itching;
• Deterioration of vision;
• Tachycardia;

Allergies.

Contraindications to the use of the medicine apply only to those who are very sensitive to it, as well as to children who have undergone brain surgery. For children 3 years old, only drops are recommended; sprays are allowed from 6 years of age.

Snoop

Vasoconstrictor medicine for the common cold for children. The active ingredient is xylometazoline hydrochloride. Quickly, within 3 minutes, eliminates swelling, inflammation, and irritation of the nasal mucosa. Used to treat runny nose from colds and allergies. Helps cope with complications after illness and other forms of diseases of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses.

• You can cure a runny nose in a child by instilling Snoop 3 times a day, 1 drop, in some cases the dose is doubled. Among the side effects, you should pay attention to:
• Depression;
• Vomiting;
• Visual impairment;
• Arrhythmia;
• Increased symptoms;
• Paresthesia;
• Headache;

Problems with the cardiovascular system.

It is contraindicated to use the drug if the child is intolerant to it. The same applies to brain surgery. For children under 6 years old, it is advisable to choose drops with a percentage of 0.05%.

Tizin for children Used in the treatment of various diseases of the nasal cavity, including complications after a runny nose.

Treatment of runny nose in three year old children with Tizin is carried out 3 times a day, a few drops. If rhinitis is complicated, the dose can be increased. The drug is contraindicated for:

• Glaucoma;
• High sensitivity to the drug;
• Taking antidepressants and tranquilizers;
• Children under 2 years old.

Side effects appear only if the doctor’s recommendations are not followed and use is prolonged. Expressed as:

• Nervous disorders;
• Disorders of the cardiovascular system;
• Burning sensation.

When using vasoconstrictor drugs, you must remember that there is no point in using them for a long time and often. This only harms the child's health. If no positive changes are visible within a week, then you need to change the drug or treatment regimen, after consulting with your pediatrician.

Getting rid of rhinitis with ointments

In addition to liquid medications, special ointments containing natural essential oils can be used to treat a runny nose. Advantages - do not accumulate in the blood, are effective, safe, and have a long-lasting effect. As an alternative to solutions, you can try the following ointments:

• Dr. MOM;
• Balm Golden Star.

Ointment Doctor MOM

Anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antimicrobial agent. The composition includes oils - eucalyptus, menthol, nutmeg. Additionally contains camphor and thymol. Relieves neuralgic pain, eliminates inflammation and swelling, fights pathogenic flora. Clears nasal cavities of mucus. It is used to treat many diseases, including being used as a remedy for the common cold.

To get rid of rhinitis, it is enough to lubricate the wings of the nose and the area above the upper lip with a small amount of the product 3-4 times a day. Side effects rarely occur in the form of a skin reaction or bronchospasms. It is contraindicated to use the ointment if you have bronchial asthma, an allergy to it, or if there are lesions on the skin.

Balm “Golden Star”

Distracting, irritating, analgesic, anti-inflammatory. The composition of the ointment is a storehouse of essential oils. Among them:

• Cinnamon;
• Clove;
• Mint;
• Eucalyptus.

Additionally contains camphor and menthol. Used to treat respiratory diseases, neuralgia, headaches. It is successfully used to treat runny nose in children 3 years and older.

To eliminate rhinitis, lubricate the nose and under it with a small amount of balm 3 times a day. The ointment is contraindicated in case of serious pathologies of the bronchi and damage to the skin areas where the product is applied. Side effects include dermatitis.

Before using any drug, consult your doctor. Use the ointment only when it is recommended for your child.

Traditional methods

Eucalyptus grass.

Perhaps in ancient times they did not think about how to cure a runny nose, but used their own methods. Some of the most effective ones have survived to this day and are successfully used at home. A 3-year-old child will not be harmed by:

• Decoction of eucalyptus leaves. For a glass of water - 50 grams of raw materials. Boil, cook for 3 minutes. Remove from heat and wait until it cools. Instill a few drops of warm broth 4-5 times a day. Promotes the evacuation of snot, relieves inflammation of the mucous membrane. A contraindication may be the high sensitivity of the child’s body to the drug.
• A solution of table or sea salt. For a glass of water, half a teaspoon of the main ingredient. Instill the warm mixture a few drops at a time every hour. Promotes rapid removal of mucus and fights germs. There are no contraindications.
• Natural oils, often essential (mint, eucalyptus, fir) or fatty (olive, sea buckthorn, vaseline). Esters are diluted with water in a 1:1 ratio and applied to the nose and the area above the upper lip or instilled into the nose, 2 drops several times a day. Fatty oils do not need to be diluted. Lubricate the nasal cavity if excessive dryness occurs. The use of oils is not recommended if you are allergic to them.

The treatment method that you choose for your child is guaranteed to help only with the right and reasonable approach. Without the pediatrician's approval, treatment will be useless or, worse, cause irreparable harm to the baby.

Many parents are faced with this problem - how to treat a child’s runny nose if it literally haunts the baby? We haven’t even had time to register for preschool, and I’m already overcome with a runny nose. We just had treatment and a few days later the nose began to run again. People with a sniffling nose are not allowed into the garden. So how can you get rid of this annoying disease, and why does this happen?

The disease does not lag behind, first of all, because the baby’s immune system is not yet formed (final formation occurs by the age of 10). In addition, it is necessary to take into account the fact that in a group of 20-30 children, the concentration of viruses and bacteria is very high. The emotional stress associated with a change of environment should not be discounted.

First aid

Before treating a child’s runny nose with medications or folk remedies, try to alleviate the baby’s condition using available methods:

• If the baby feels unwell and begins to sniffle, take immediate action and provide the baby with bed or semi-bed rest. It’s easier to sit at home for 1-2 days and stop the disease at an early stage than to cure a child’s runny nose, which has become protracted, accompanied by fever, cough and other “cold delights”,
• Place a pillow under the child’s shoulders and head so that the head and upper body are at an angle of 45° relative to the bed and the baby can lie comfortably. This will allow the mucus that has formed in the nose to separate more easily, which will make breathing much easier,
• give plenty of warm drinks– tea with raspberry jam or with currants, cranberries, sea buckthorn. These berries are famous for their high content of vitamin C, which successfully fights viral infections. They also have an anti-inflammatory effect and can strengthen the immune system. A child of two to four years old needs to drink up to 1 liter of liquid per day,
• You can also give heated alkaline mineral water (non-carbonated) - viruses die in an alkaline environment. To do this, it is better to buy such water at the pharmacy. Drinking plenty of fluids facilitates the passage of nasal mucus and reduces intoxication of the body caused by the activity of viruses and bacteria,
• Provide your baby with dietary nutrition - reduce the amount of meat and fat. Digesting heavy meat foods requires a lot of energy and enzymes, and the body of a sick child needs strength to fight a cold.

Moisturizing the nasal mucous membranes

It is very important to prevent mucus from drying out in your nose. Since this can completely upset nasal breathing. Therefore, it is necessary to moisturize the nasal passages with saline solution. It is quite easy to prepare such a solution at home:

• dissolve ¼ tbsp in a glass of boiled water. l table salt and one drop of iodine,
• Dissolve 1 tbsp in a liter of boiled water. l. sea ​​salt, filter through cheesecloth,
• dissolve ½ tsp in a glass of boiled water. ordinary salt and soda on the tip of a knife.

The saline solution is instilled 3-4 drops into each nostril. You can repeat the procedure every half hour or hour. The first instillation can cause discomfort in the child, as well as provoke sneezing, coughing and even the urge to vomit. But after several procedures, the mucous membranes of the nose and throat will no longer be so sensitive and such reactions will disappear.

The saline solution quickly clears the nose of dust and germs, softens dry crusts, promotes the removal of mucus and makes breathing easier. If you do not want to prepare the solution yourself, you can use pharmaceutical preparations such as Aquamaris or Salin.

These drugs have no contraindications, come in different concentrations, and are suitable even for infants. Therefore, when answering the question: “How to cure a child’s runny nose?”, pharmacists in pharmacies, first of all, recommend these particular remedies. Regular saline solution also successfully copes with the task of moisturizing and cleansing the nasal passages.

Without starting the disease, taking the necessary measures immediately, it is quite possible to get by only with the above methods and means. A runny nose will go away very quickly - in one or two days and without the use of other drugs.

Medications

If you can’t get by with improvised means alone, the runny nose gets worse, the mucous membranes swell and nasal breathing becomes very difficult - parents are faced with a dilemma: to use or not to use vasoconstrictor drugs. After all, the effect of these drugs is obvious, but there is a danger of complications.

So, a runny nose in a two to four year old child – how to treat it? And how justified is the use of decongestants (vasoconstrictor drops) to facilitate nasal breathing? It should be noted that complications arise not because of medications, but because of their illiterate use. It is unacceptable to use “adult” concentrations of the drug for children or increase the prescribed dosage, as well as more frequent and prolonged use.

However, failure to use decongestants can also lead to the development of complications such as sinusitis. The fact is that all nasal sinuses (maxillary, frontal, ethmoid and sphenoid) open with small openings into the nasal cavity. It is through these openings that the sinuses are cleansed of germs along with nasal mucus.

In children, these openings are so small that with severe swelling of the nasal mucosa, they close completely. As a result, microbes accumulate in the sinuses, which leads to acute inflammation - sinusitis.

When choosing a medicine for a child’s runny nose, you should pay attention to the active substance and its percentage (concentration) indicated on the box or in the instructions.

Active substance - "Phenylephrine"

Medicines containing phenylephrine (mesaton) are used to facilitate nasal breathing in case of influenza, hay fever, colds, as well as allergic reactions accompanied by rhinitis or sinusitis:

• "Vibrocil" - drops. Can be used in children from infancy, but not more than seven days. Duration of action is six to eight hours. Instill three to four times a day. For children under one year old – one drop in each nasal passage. Children from one to six years old – 1-2 drops. Children over six years old – 3-4 drops. Before use, it is necessary for the baby to thoroughly blow his nose, and then rinse the nasal cavity with saline solution or Aquamaris,
• “Nazol Baby 0.125%” - drops. This drug should be used with caution, no more than three days. It is not recommended for use in children under one year of age. Duration of action is up to six hours. Dosage for children from one year to six years – 1-2 drops in each nostril, no more often than every six hours. Children over six years old – 3-4 drops. After use, the pipette on the bottle must be wiped dry.
• "Polydex with phenylephrine" - nasal spray. Can be used in children from two to fifteen years of age. The course of treatment is five to ten days. Duration of action is eight to ten hours. Dosage: one injection into the nasal passage three times a day, holding the bottle in an upright position. Cannot be used in children suffering from renal failure.

Active substance – “Imidazoline”

“Imidazoline” (“Xylometazoline”), when applied topically, reduces swelling of the nasopharyngeal mucosa and reduces the amount of secretion. Used to facilitate nasal breathing in acute, vasomotor, allergic rhinitis and inflammation of the paranasal sinuses. Nasal drops containing imidazoline:

• "Naphthyzin 0.025%" is intended for children aged two to six years. But given the too short duration of action and possible side effects, it is not recommended for use in the treatment of runny nose in children,
• “Otrivin Baby” can be used from infancy, but no more than ten days. Duration of action is ten to twelve hours. For infants and children under six years of age, instill 1-2 drops into each nostril twice a day. Children over six years old – 2-3 drops up to four times a day. Before use, clear the nasal passages of mucus and dry crusts.
• "Xymelin 0.05%" - for the treatment of runny nose in children from two to six years old. The duration of action of the drug is 12 hours. Use with caution, no more than three to five days. Children aged two to six years are instilled with 1-2 drops 1-2 times a day. For children over six years of age, Xymelin 0.1% is used to treat rhinitis - 2-3 drops in each nasal passage, no more than three times a day,
• “Nazivin 0.025%” is used in children aged from one to six years. The course of treatment is no more than three to five days. Has a long-lasting effect – 10-12 hours. Place 1-2 drops in each nostril 2-3 times a day. A solution of “Nazivin” with a percentage of 0.01% is prescribed to children under one year of age - a drop in each nostril twice a day. And “Nazivin 0.05%” is used for children over six years old, 1-2 drops 2-3 times a day.

When wondering how to cure a runny nose in a child, you should remember that vasoconstrictors do not cure a runny nose, but only provide temporary relief.

Vasoconstrictor drops are contraindicated in children suffering from heart rhythm disturbances, high blood pressure, as well as children with thyroid diseases and diabetes.

Home remedies for treating runny nose in children

Very effective methods of dealing with a runny nose at home, such as rinsing the nose and warming the feet. These methods have been known for a long time and their effectiveness has been tested by time.

Nasal rinsing can be done daily. And not only for treatment, but also for prevention. This procedure is especially useful for urban residents. It allows you to free the nasal mucosa from dust, dirt and germs.

Nasal rinsing

You can rinse your nose with warm boiled water, but sea water or an infusion of medicinal herbs (calendula, chamomile, sage, St. John's wort, eucalyptus) will have a greater effect.

The washing procedure can be very unpleasant for a child, so you need to set it up in advance and explain that this is very important. Gradually, the baby will get used to it, especially since the result will be noticeable to him immediately.

Rinsing can be done using a small syringe. It is necessary that the child lowers his head face down and tilts it slightly to the side, so that the solution can freely come out through the mouth. The liquid is poured alternately into both nostrils. For the first time, the jet pressure should not be strong so as not to scare the child.

After the first procedure, it will immediately become easier for him to breathe. And the effect of medications for the common cold will be more effective if they are applied to a clean nasal mucosa.

General warming up

Unlike the nasal rinsing procedure, warming the feet is a rather pleasant procedure for the child. Usually children happily agree to “steam their legs with mustard.” It must be remembered that this method of treatment is applicable only if the child does not have a fever.

Mustard is diluted in warm water at the rate of 2-3 tbsp. l. mustard powder in a bucket of water. The child’s feet are first placed in warm water, and then hot water is added, gradually raising the water temperature to 41 0 C. As soon as the feet turn red, you need to pour cool water over them and place them in hot water again.

This procedure should be repeated three times. After the last cold douche, put woolen socks on the child and put him to bed. Warming with mustard cleanses the nose well, eases the general condition, and helps with coughing. You can warm your hands in the same way.

Of course, it is much easier for parents to cure uncomplicated rhinitis in a child who is already two years old than to treat a runny nose in a newborn child or infant. But even in this case, you must be careful and be sure to consult a pediatrician.

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A child’s immune system is weaker than that of adults, so ordinary snot is a frequent “guest” at this age. When a child develops snot, parents begin intensive treatment by all means and means. This treatment only leads to increased symptoms of a runny nose.

Therefore, in order not to harm your baby, call a pediatrician who will determine the cause of snot and draw up a treatment plan.

Causes of snot in three-year-old children

Snot can be of infectious or non-infectious origin. Infections still dominate, and therefore a runny nose in a 3-year-old child most often occurs due to viruses and bacteria.

Sometimes the cause of a runny nose can be foreign bodies that get into the nasal passages. Children love to experiment with various small objects, and such unsafe games lead to injury and blockage of the nasal passages.

Important! If you find a foreign body in your child’s nose, immediately seek help from the ENT department. Never try to remove a stuck object yourself.

A very common cause of a runny nose in children is simple hypothermia, especially when the child’s feet are frozen. This is explained by the interaction of reflex connections between the nose and feet. Therefore, the child’s feet should always be protected from getting wet and hypothermia.

Polluted air, flowering plants, smoke, chemicals are common causes of allergic rhinitis in children, which causes sneezing and copious mucous discharge from the nose.

Preventive measures to prevent a runny nose in a child aged 3 years

The success of treating any disease is prevention, the main thing is regular implementation of all pediatrician’s recommendations and health procedures.

What should you do to avoid snot in your child?

• The health of a child, like that of adults, depends on a healthy lifestyle. Walk more with your children in any weather. Keep your child busy with active games. TV viewing should be limited.
• The child's diet should be balanced. In the off-season, introduce more fruits and vitamin fruit drinks into your diet: cranberry, lingonberry, sea buckthorn.
• Do not allow your child to become hypothermic. Clothing must be appropriate for the weather. After walking in the cold, be sure to give your child warm tea with honey.

• If possible, assign your child to sports sections; swimming, dancing, gymnastics are good options. These sports perfectly strengthen and develop the body.
• Sport helps a child from the age of three get rid of colds, as well as acquire protection against scoliosis (curvature of the spine), which often becomes the cause of many diseases in the future.
• In the summer, visit seaside resorts where there are plantations of coniferous trees. The child will receive healing sea bathing and will saturate his respiratory tract with phytoncides, without which it will be difficult to cope with viruses and bacteria.

Treatment of snot in a child aged 3 years

At the first sign of snot, all measures should be taken to alleviate the child’s condition. If there is a fever, you should put the child to bed and call the pediatrician.

Rinse your nose with slightly salted water using a dropper full of water into each nostril. Before the doctor arrives, perform the procedure three times a day. Saline solutions are prepared very simply: a teaspoon of table salt (you can take sea salt) is dissolved in 200 ml of boiled water.

Often give your baby tea made from raspberries, linden, currants and sea buckthorn. If you are not allergic to citrus fruits, give your child oranges and tangerines. These fruits not only saturate the body with vitamin C, but also actively reduce elevated body temperature.

Drugs acceptable for the treatment of snot in children aged 3 years should be prescribed only by a pediatrician or pediatric ENT specialist. If treatment is started on your own, then it is better to resort to safer drugs. Let's look at them:

1. Salin, aquamaris - safe drops based on saline solutions. The drops moisturize and cleanse the nasal mucosa.
2. Otrivin, Snoop, Nazivin are vasoconstrictor drops. Their action is based on reducing mucus and nasal congestion.
3. Protargol, collargol - antiseptic and anti-inflammatory drops.
4. Allergodil and vibrocil have an antiallergic effect.
5. Pinosol - drops that relieve inflammation and swelling in the nasal passages, as well as reduce the viscosity of snot.

Traditional methods of treating snot at 3 years old

To get rid of snot, use frequent rinsing of the nose using folk remedies:

• sea ​​salt solution (5 grams of salt per glass of water);
• infusion of chamomile, eucalyptus, calendula, sage (take 10 grams of raw materials per 300 ml of boiling water, leave for 40 minutes).

Rinsing is done up to three times a day, pouring a full pipette into each nasal passage. This method allows you to thin the mucus in the nasopharynx. After just a few washes, the child will breathe easier. Usually the course of treatment lasts 5 days.

An effective method for a viral runny nose is rubbing your feet with Dr. Theiss's cold ointment. The ointment contains natural ingredients: pine and eucalyptus oil, as well as camphor.

These components perfectly relieve the inflammatory process and have a general stimulating effect on the entire body. The ointment can be used from the age of two. Rubbing should be done twice a day, before the child rests: during the day and at night.

Another effective way is instilling onion drops. They are prepared as follows: drop 5 drops of fresh onion juice into a teaspoon of olive oil and stir the mixture. Place two drops in each nostril three times a day.

Homeopathic approach to the treatment of runny nose in children

To restore a child’s immune system, many pediatricians recommend homeopathic remedies, but only a qualified homeopath can help you choose the right drug correctly. Homeopathy is a very delicate healing that often solves a complex of childhood problems.

Having addressed one problem, to the surprise of the parents, the child gets rid of another sore. For example, when a child comes to see a homeopath with a runny nose, after a few months the child gets rid of diathesis or dysbacteriosis. Therefore, you should not neglect homeopathy - it works!

Important! Parents should remember that if a runny nose does not go away after a week, despite performing all medical procedures, it is necessary to consult a pediatrician or ENT specialist for a second consultation. A prolonged runny nose leads to serious complications in the nasopharynx, ears and respiratory system. Take care of the health of your kids!