You can unblock your baby's nose using a nasal aspirator (often called a "snot sucker") that you operate with your mouth. Here's how:
- Use saline drops: First, instill a few saline drops into one of your baby's nostrils. This helps to loosen the mucus.
- Prepare the aspirator: Ensure the nasal aspirator is clean and assembled correctly. Most aspirators have a filter to prevent mucus from entering your mouth.
- Create a seal: Place the nasal tip of the aspirator gently just inside your baby's nostril, forming a seal to prevent air from escaping.
- Suck gently: Put the mouthpiece of the aspirator into your mouth and gently suck in. The mucus should be drawn into the aspirator's collection chamber.
- Repeat: Repeat the process for the same nostril if needed, and then switch to the other nostril, again using saline drops first.
Important considerations:
- Gentle suction: Be extremely gentle with the suction to avoid irritating your baby's nasal passages.
- Cleanliness: Always clean the aspirator thoroughly after each use to prevent the spread of germs.
- Frequency: Avoid using the aspirator too frequently, as this can also irritate the nasal passages. A few times a day, when needed, is usually sufficient.
- Alternative: You can also use a bulb syringe for nasal aspiration.
If your baby's nasal congestion is severe or accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, consult a pediatrician.
