Every parent knows the unsettling feeling that comes when their babies struggle to breathe at night. More often than not, it is caused by a stuffy nose that obstructs the airways of your baby. Sure. It may seem like a minor issue. But for your little ones, it is something that is hard to manage. Don’t worry. An electrical nasal aspirator can ease the baby’s stuffy nose at night. But if you wish to explore more in this regard, there are a lot of remedies you can give a try.
In this guide, we will talk about nighttime congestion, its primary causes, and the corresponding solutions. Continue reading the next paragraphs to learn the best way to handle the baby’s stuffy nose at night.
Understanding Congestion: When Baby’s Stuffy Nose At Night Steals Sleep
In the first few months, babies use their noses to breathe. It’s mainly because they haven’t learned how to breathe using their mouths yet. Well, that’s fine. It’s pretty normal. However, things start to get a little complicated when nighttime congestion comes into the scene.
For instance, it can make sleeping harder as well as eating and staying calm. Your baby might feel agitated and uncomfortable. When there’s a blockage, lying flat at night can worsen the symptoms of the congestion. It gets worse if not given the proper treatment or remedy. That’s why you should not brush off this kind of problem.
Why the Baby’s Stuffy Nose At Night Gets Worse?
At nighttime, the symptoms of nose congestion often intensify. To help you understand it better, some of the culprits are listed below. Check them out now to learn why the baby’s stuffy nose at night gets worse during that time.
- Naturally, lying flat brings mucus into the nasal passages. This results to a blocked nose when the baby is sleeping, especially at night.
- When the air inside the bedroom or nursery is dry, the mucus inside the nose of your baby thickens. Of course. It creates an obstruction in the airways.
- Allergens like dust, particles, and fibers may irritate the tiny airways of your baby.
- If the nasal obstruction is caused by a cold or infection, the symptoms commonly get worse at night.
- Keep in mind that the respiratory system of your baby is still developing at this stage. Therefore, a small blockage may cause this kind of problem
Creating a Better Environment: The Magic of the Air Humidifier
When air conditioners or heaters are running constantly, it causes the baby’s stuffy nose at night. It’s the main effect when the humidity inside the room decreases. Therefore, it is highly recommended to use an air humidifier when these appliances are up and running. Basically, the air humidifier regulates the moisture and makes it gentle for your little ones.
Are you planning to use this device? If so, consider placing it not too near the baby’s crib. Also, clean it up regularly to avoid the buildup of harmful allergens or germs. The air humidifier is not the complete remedy for the baby’s stuffy nose at night. But in a way, it can truly be of great help.
The Saline Solution: A Gentle Way to Unblock a Tiny Nose
A gentle remedy for the baby’s stuffy nose at night? In this case, the saline solution can be a great help. A single drop of saline in each obstructed nostril can break up the thick mucus and lubricate the dry airways.
Doing so can make breathing a lot easier for your baby. Is saline a hazard? Well, you don’t need to worry about it. Saline is simply a saltwater solution. It is too light and mild to cause harm.
Strategic Sleep Position: Elevating the Baby’s Head For Easier Breathing
As mentioned earlier, lying flat makes the baby’s stuffy nose at night worse. Hence, you can try other sleeping position that makes your baby feel more comfortable. Here are some recommendations.
- Elevate the head part of the mattress. You can insert a rolled towel or any firm material beneath it.
- Carry your baby in a slightly upright position before placing him back in the crib. This helps drain the mucus inside the nose.
- For older infants, you may use medically recommended pillows or wedges to elevate the head of your baby.
The Steam Solution: A Warm-Up For a Clearer Night
Warm moisture reduces the secretion and loosens the thick mucus inside the nasal passages. Check out this short guide.
- Bring your baby inside the bathroom and run a mildly hot shower.
- Close the door.
- Sit with your baby for 10 to 15 minutes. Take note that you’re just up for the steam alone. Don’t actually shower and get wet.
But if steaming in the bathroom isn’t for you, you could try steaming in your kitchen.
- Boil some water, pour it into a large bowl.
- Help your baby lean over with a towel draped over their head.
- Let them inhale the steam but be extremely careful to avoid burns.
Mastering the Aspirator: A Go-To Tool for Tougher Mucus
When you’re dealing with a baby stuffy nose at night, a nasal aspirator is a lifesaver. There are special tools like a bulb syringe or an electrical nasal aspirator which are designed for infants to help gently clear out their stubborn mucus. Here are helpful tips to guide you:
- Start to loosen things up with saline. Saline spray help thin out the mucus.
- Squeeze before inserting. When using a bulb syringe, you should squeeze the bulb first, then gently place the tip into one nostril before you release the pressure to suction.
- Work gently. Don’t push the tip of the aspirator too deep.
- Clean in between uses. Keep it clean by washing thoroughly with warm soapy water.
- Avoid overdoing it. A few suctions a day is enough, sometimes overdoing it make things worse.
When to Call the Doctor: Recognizing Red Flags and Serious Symptoms
A baby stuffy nose at night is not usually harmful as it is, but there are times when it can signal a serious underlying issue. Call your pediatrician as soon as you notice these signs:
- Difficulty in breathing
- Their lips or face are turning bluish
- Refusing to nurse or feed
- High fever
- Dehydration
- Coughing or wheezing
- Unusually tired or irritable
If you feel something is off with your baby, it’s best to reach out to your pediatrician. Consulting with them is better to get an answer to your baby stuffy nose at night.
Final Thoughts
Witnessing your baby with a clogged nose at night is concerning, but it’s most uncomfortable for them. It disrupts their sleep and comfort. Some of the mild cases can be treated at home using saline drops, electric nasal aspirator, or creating a soothing environment. While these minor situations are not problematic, it is worth paying attention to other symptoms of any possible complications. Get in touch with your pediatrician as early as possible if something doesn’t sit right with you.
