Question
Why do children have a blocked nose?
Answer
Infants’ nasal passages are not fully developed; they are shorter and smaller, with rich blood vessels in the nasal mucosa. When exposed to changes in cold or hot air or to pathogens, inflammation of the nasal passages may occur, leading to nasal congestion and runny nose. At this time, children may feel uncomfortable, often crying and being restless, and in severe cases, they may breathe through their mouth, affecting their eating. In such situations, parents should not be overly worried. You can gently wipe away the runny nose, but be careful not to do it too frequently to avoid damaging the skin. If there are nasal crusts inside, you can apply a warm, moist towel to the nose or use a cotton swab dipped in a small amount of water to clear them, making gentle movements to avoid damaging the nasal mucosa. Do not use nasal drops on newborns, as they may contain ephedrine, which is unsuitable for newborns. If the child also has symptoms of a cold, such as coughing and fever, it is advisable to take the child to the hospital for a check-up and follow the doctor’s instructions for medication.