Suggest Remedy For Heavy Breathing And Blocked Nose In Child
I had a few questions on my son who is 19 days old. He is generally fine, but has: (1) blocked nose with slight phlegm, and (2) occasional heavy to very heavy breathing.
We tried nasoclear once 7-10 days before. But unsure if I can use it often. Also, not sure if it is safe to use nasal aspirator already. Can you please advise.
Another silly question, when he is trying to focus on objects, sometimes (very rarely) he tends to look as if he is cross-eyed. Is this normal for new born babies?
Thanks,
XXXX
It is normal for age
Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXX,
1. Blocked nose is quite common in this age group particulary in this season (winter).
2. I will give a scientific explanation of the heavy breathing you are quoting. I feel that by heavy breathing you mean to say noisy breathing. Usually babies of this age have a smaller airway which is very pliant or soft. So when the air passes through this smaller soft breathing tubes, a fluttering noise occurs and this noise is heard more during sleeping and during feeding. This is only temporary and will gradually improve as the age progresses. Till then it will appear as though the baby is struggling to breathe.
3. Nasoclear or Nasivion-S both are saline nasal drops and can be used for stuffy nose as frequently as required. As this is only saline nasal drops, there are no side effects. You can use plain saline nasal drops, every 4-6th hourly to relive nasal congestion.
4. The crossed eyedness you are observing now is also a temporary phenomenon. This is completely normal in this age group. He will be normal as the age progresses.
Regards - Dr. Sumanth