From the Guidelines
For an 11-month-old with congestion, saline drops or spray followed by gentle suctioning with a bulb syringe or nasal aspirator is the safest and most effective approach. This method is recommended due to the potential risks associated with oral and topical decongestants in young children, as highlighted in the study by 1. The use of oral decongestants in infants and young children has been associated with serious side effects, including agitated psychosis, ataxia, hallucinations, and even death. Topical decongestants, on the other hand, can cause local stinging or burning, sneezing, and dryness of the nose and throat, and their use in children under 1 year is cautioned due to the narrow margin between the therapeutic and toxic dose.
To implement this approach, use 1-2 drops of saline solution in each nostril, wait 30-60 seconds, then suction gently with a bulb syringe or nasal aspirator. This can be repeated several times daily as needed. Running a cool-mist humidifier in the baby's room can also help loosen mucus, especially during sleep. Elevating the head of the crib slightly by placing a towel under the mattress may improve breathing comfort. It is essential to note that most over-the-counter cold medications are not recommended for children under 2 years due to potential side effects and limited effectiveness, as stated in the study by 1.
If congestion is severe, persists beyond 10-14 days, is accompanied by fever over 100.4°F, difficulty breathing, or decreased feeding, it is crucial to contact your pediatrician promptly. These non-medication approaches work by moistening dried mucus and using gravity and gentle suction to clear the nasal passages, making breathing easier for your baby. The study by 1 emphasizes the importance of caution when using decongestants in young children, and the approach recommended here prioritizes the safety and well-being of the child.
From the Research
Nasal Congestion Relief for 11-Month-Olds
- Nasal irrigation with saline solution is a recommended method for relieving nasal congestion in infants and children, including 11-month-olds 2.
- Isotonic and hypertonic saline solutions are considered safe and effective for nasal congestion relief in infants and children 2, 3.
- Nasal aspiration with a medical device, associated with an isotonic saline solution, can help lower the risk of developing acute otitis media and rhinosinusitis in infants and children 2.
- Saline nasal irrigation can help reduce symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections, including congestion, in infants and children 4, 5, 3, 6.
Safety and Efficacy
- The use of saline nasal irrigation is considered safe and well-tolerated in infants and children, with no serious adverse events reported 2, 3.
- Nasal irrigation with saline solution can help reduce the need for medications, such as antihistamines, decongestants, antibiotics, and corticosteroids, in the treatment of upper respiratory tract infections 2.
- The efficacy of nasal irrigation with saline solution in reducing nasal congestion and relieving symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections has been demonstrated in several studies 4, 5, 3, 6.