In the first months babies breathe mainly through the nose. That is why even a small blockage makes feeding and sleeping noticeably harder. The most common causes are upper respiratory tract infections and dry air.

How saline is used

  1. Lay your baby slightly on their side, or gently turn their head to one side.
  2. Put a few drops of saline into the upper nostril.
  3. Wait a short while; this softens the secretions.
  4. If needed, suction gently with an aspirator.
  5. Repeat the same steps for the other nostril.

Applying it before a feed lets the baby suckle more comfortably.

What to watch for when using an aspirator

An aspirator is a helper used when needed; frequent and forceful use can irritate the inside of the nose and increase swelling. Its tip should be cleaned after every use.

Adjusting the environment

Room air that is not excessively dry, frequent airing and an environment free of cigarette smoke are effective in reducing nasal congestion. Exposure to cigarette smoke is one of the most important factors that increase the frequency of respiratory tract infections.

When a doctor should be consulted

  • Rapid and laboured breathing, indrawing of the spaces between the ribs
  • Bluish discoloration, inability to feed, a decrease in the number of wet nappies
  • Fever in a baby younger than three months
  • Congestion that is one-sided and comes with foul-smelling discharge
  • A course that drags on and gets worse