Nose drops for children: types and how to use them

Children’s nose drops are used to treat allergies, which may occur as a result of the spread of dust or due to handling pets. In addition, some children in the spring may suffer from allergies to pollen as well, and below we will learn about the different types of children’s nose drops and ways to use them.

Types of nose drops for children

The types of nose drops for children differ according to their active ingredients, and choosing the appropriate type depends on the cause of the child’s allergy and the apparent symptoms. The most common types of nose drops include the following:

1. Antihistamines

Antihistamines block the effects of histamine, a chemical your body produces in response to allergens.

Varieties that contain antihistamines as their active ingredient and that should be used under medical supervision include:

  • Atanes (Patanase).
  • Olopatadine.

The types of antihistamine drops that can be used without a prescription for children aged 6 years and older are:

  • Astepro.
  • Azelastine.

These drops usually start working within an hour, and give best results when used routinely.

2. Steroids

Nasal corticosteroids reduce the inflammation caused by allergic and non-allergic rhinitis. This type of nasal drops helps prevent and relieve allergy symptoms, such as: sneezing, runny nose, itchy or stuffy nose.

Types of over-the-counter nasal drops for children in this category include:

  • Flonase for children.
  • Fluticasone propionate.

As for the types that should be used only when prescribed by a doctor, they include the following:

  • Nasonex.
  • Omnaris.

As with antihistamines, corticosteroid nasal drops and sprays should be used routinely. To get their benefit, this type of medication may take several hours to start working.

3. Anticholinergics

Anticholinergics dry out the nasal passages, and Atrovent Nasal Spray is one of the most important types of anticholinergics.

4. Mast Cell Stabilizer

This type of pediatric nasal drops is based on cromolyn sodium, which prevents mast cells (a type of immune cell) from releasing histamine into the bloodstream.

For best results, it should be given four times daily, plus it is available without a prescription.

5. Salt water drops and sprays

Salt and water nose drops for children help soften the mucus, making it easier for the mucus to drain more easily. However, caution should be exercised and not to use this type immediately after using the medicated sprays; You may rinse off the medicine before it takes effect.

How to use nose drops for children

The child may resist when the liquid is sprayed in his nose; Therefore, to reduce discomfort, it is preferable to follow the following steps when using nasal drops for children:

Use of nasal drops for infants

  1. Wash hands well using soap and water.
  2. If you’re right-handed, you can hold the baby using the left arm or support your baby with the arm of the couch to make it easier, so that his head is tilted slightly back.
  3. Make sure that the nose is not clogged with mucus due to congestion before giving the child a dose.
  4. The nasal dropper is used by placing the recommended dose of drops in each nostril, but care must be taken when bringing it close to the child’s nose so as not to touch his nose.
  5. continue to hold the child for 5 minutes in the same position after introducing the solution into the child’s nose; To allow the correct passage of the solution.
  6. Then rinse the tip of the bottle (dropper) with warm water.

If the child shows signs of being upset or wants to cough, the child should be seated immediately.

Use of nasal drops for children who are not infants

  1. Wash hands well with soap and water.
  2. Shake well before use.
  3. making the child blow his nose; To clean the nasal passages.
  4. Sit the child with his head tilted back, or make the child lie on the floor and keep his head tilted back, and a pillow can be placed under the child’s neck to facilitate his head tilt.
  5. Place the dropper at the nostril, and try not to touch the dropper’s nose.
  6. Apply the recommended amount of nasal drops, then clean any growths outside the nose with a tissue.
  7. Keep the child in the same position for a few minutes.
  8. Then rinse the tip of the bottle (dropper) with warm water.

If the child has a cough, he should be seated immediately, but do not allow him to blow his nose for at least two minutes.

Nose drops for children

Side effects of nasal drops for children include:

  • Runny nose.
  • Sneezing, burning or dry nose.
  • a headache.
  • feeling dizzy
  • breathing difficulties.
  • Arrhythmia.
  • nausea;
  • mood changes
  • Constant sweating.
  • sleep problems;
  • rash.
  • throat irritation;

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