Buzz
The ongoing debate on whether to clean a child's nose with a nasal wash has garnered diverse opinions, leaving families in a state of concern. Recent instructional videos on nasal rinsing using a nasal spray are drawing considerable views. So, is it advisable to nasal rinse for children?
There has been a multitude of conflicting opinions on the issue of nasal rinsing for children, causing mothers to worry about the safety of this method. However, some argue that it is a safe and effective way to cleanse the nasal passages without causing harm to the child's nasal mucosa. Consequently, many mothers have rushed to purchase nasal spray devices with silicone tips to create DIY nasal rinsing solutions for their children.
Caution when Using Nasal Wash for Infants
According to Dr. Truong Huu Khanh from Children's Hospital 1, using a nasal wash to clean a child's nose is highly perilous due to its high pressure, which can lead to splashing and psychological trauma for the child. Even suctioning or nasal rinsing with incorrect pressure can damage the child's nasal mucosa. Additionally, the use of a nasal wash with a sharp tip can cause injuries such as nosebleeds and scratches to the nasal mucosa. The weak swallowing reflex in children can also result in the inhalation of nasal wash into the lungs.
Dr. Dao Dinh Thi, PhD - Central Ear, Nose, and Throat Hospital, emphasizes the importance of caution when using a nasal wash for children. It is advisable to use a nasal wash only when there is no inflammation. Using a nasal wash when the nose is inflamed (blocked nose) can lead to improper drainage, causing mucus to accumulate in the ears and potentially leading to middle ear inflammation due to trapped fluid.
Managing a Child's Runny or Stuffy Nose
According to Dr. Khanh, when a child shows signs of nasal congestion or a runny nose, parents should gently clear the child's nose and keep their feet warm to maintain a suitable bedroom temperature. If the child experiences frequent nasal congestion, mothers can use 2-3 drops of 0.9% saline solution in the child's nose and perform deep suctioning to remove mucus and nasal fluid. Repeat the process once more. When performing deep suctioning, mothers should use clean, durable, and soft tissues, rolled into a large and small end, and ensure thoroughly clean hands.
When irrigating a child's nose, it's advisable to use specialized nasal wash bottles designed with standard pressure to avoid damaging the child's nasal mucosa. Mothers can choose the Nasopure nasal wash bottle, a specialized product from the U.S., for nasal irrigation.
Additionally, mothers can utilize specialized nasal aspirators for nasal hygiene in children. Adding saline solution into the child's nose helps thin the nasal discharge, followed by using a nasal aspirator to effectively suction out the nasal fluid.
