Question
What medicine should I give my baby if they often have a runny nose?
Answer
A baby’s runny nose can be caused by various factors, including colds, allergies, or sinusitis. Before choosing medication for treatment, it is recommended that you first take your baby to see a doctor to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment. If the baby only has an occasional runny nose, generally no medication is needed. Symptoms can be relieved through the following methods:
- Keep the indoor air moist with a humidifier.
- Avoid exposing the baby to allergens such as dust mites, pet hair, etc.
- Help the baby blow their nose using a child-friendly nasal aspirator.
- Give the baby warm water to stay hydrated. If you suspect that your baby’s runny nose is due to allergies, you can use antihistamines or topical corticosteroid nasal sprays, but these medications should be used under a doctor’s guidance. If the runny nose is caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotic treatment may be necessary. Remember that medication should always be taken under a doctor’s supervision to ensure your baby’s safety and the effectiveness of the medication. Moreover, since a baby’s immune system is still developing, they may need more time to recover from illnesses. In this case, keeping the baby comfortable and providing adequate care and support is very important.