How To Remove Mucus From Your Baby

It is normal for children to suffer from mucus at a very young age. Still, many parents are concerned, especially if there is a lot of mucus or if symptoms return. So it is important to know how to remove mucus from your baby.

Coughing, insomnia, difficulty breathing and even vomiting are some of the most common consequences.

This gel-like substance forms in your little one’s airways.

When the discharge comes from the nose it is commonly known as ‘snot’. If it comes from the throat or mouth, it is called a ‘phlegm’.

Snot and mucus are often signs of the flu, although they can also be symptoms of a cold.

This substance acts as a line of defense and prevents the spread of the bacteria and virus.

Mucus serves as a lubricant to reduce irritation and also to trap germs. Therefore, mucus in itself is not harmful.

Complications that can arise from mucus

Babies have yet to develop the ability to spit and blow their noses to get rid of the mucus. This causes coughing and discomfort.

The viscous buildup builds up and causes congestion in the nose, throat and even the ears. This can lead to infection, inflammation and general discomfort.

Mucus can also affect the lungs. A significant amount can end in a lung infection or swelling of the lungs.

But there is no cause for alarm. Mucus rarely leads to serious illness.

Another symptom that may appear is softening of the stool. Since babies don’t know how to spit, they swallow the mucus which in turn ends up in their stomach.

If it stays there, it can cause nausea or even vomiting. So finding mucus in your baby’s dirty diapers isn’t that bad.

Visit a specialist

Taking your little one to a pediatrician is never a bad idea.

If your baby’s symptoms do not improve after a while or if other symptoms appear – such as a fever or chronic cough – be sure to contact your doctor.

In general, your child’s doctor will do lab tests to rule out related illnesses. If your child is healthy, your doctor is unlikely to prescribe medication to get rid of the mucus.

Whether medication is necessary or not, a medical professional will advise on the proper way to manage the symptoms at home.

For example, your child’s doctor may recommend a saline solution or vaporizer to help your child feel better.

How to remove mucus from your baby at home

It is crucial to stay calm. Keeping your baby’s nasal cavity and mouth clear is usually a simple task.

Saline solution is very useful and you can buy it in spray, liquid or drops at any local pharmacy.

Ideally, you should find a place to lay your baby on his side. Hold his arms to keep him from pushing your hands away.

Then insert the applicator completely into your child’s nostril and squeeze, releasing the saline solution. Wait a few seconds and then repeat the process in the other nostril.

The saline mixes with the mucus in your child’s nasal passages and the mixture comes out right away.

It’s good to have some gauze on hand so you can wipe it off right away. The procedure may startle your baby, so be ready to comfort him as soon as possible.

If there is still mucus in your baby’s airway, get a rubber nasal pump to suck out the remaining fluid. If you don’t already have one, you can also find one at your local pharmacy.

Press the bulb with your thumb before gently inserting the tip of the instrument into your child’s nose. When you release the pressure on the bulb, the nasal pump will act as a vacuum to remove excess mucus from your baby.

Nasal pumps are very effective tools, but you should not use them too often.

The insertion may cause irritation to the inside of your baby’s nose. Therefore, it is important to use caution to avoid injury.

Using nasal pump in the mouth

Although nasal pumps are most commonly used in the nose, they also work for clearing mucus from the throat.

Squeeze the bulb, then place the tip on the tip of the tongue. Release the pressure on the bulb to clear all the mucus in your baby’s throat.

Try to do this as soon as possible so as not to cause gagging or vomiting.

Another method for removing mucus from your baby is using your fingers. Wrap your index finger in sterile gauze and gently place the tip in your child’s mouth for a few seconds.

There is no need to use pressure – you simply remove your finger and the liquid will stick to the mesh.

General care

Keeping your baby well hydrated is an important way to prevent mucus from forming in your baby.

Providing fluids regularly helps thin the mucus. Plus, it aids in digestion and prevents your little one’s throat and nose from drying out.

Remember that babies under 6 months should only drink breast milk or follow-on milk.

A warm bath can also provide relief and keep your little one’s mouth and nose moist.

Finally , using a humidifier is also an excellent idea. You can even add herbs with menthol to the vape, making the technique all the more effective.