A 2-year-old child has clear snot. How to treat snot in a child

A runny nose often occurs not only in adults, but also in children, causing them more discomfort and some complications. It is usually associated with the penetration of infection into the nasopharynx, then treatment can be carried out using antiviral drugs. But parents can detect thick snot in a child even if he is in good health without any signs of a viral or cold. In such a situation, treatment is much more difficult, because the inflammatory process in the nasopharynx or paranasal sinuses can be caused by serious diseases of the respiratory system. This is why it is so important to first identify the cause of thick snot in a child.

The nature of the origin of thick snot

Otolaryngologists often associate the appearance of white mucus in a child with an allergic reaction of the body, but such mucus can also occur with a runny nose, when the disease is non-bacterial in nature. If, during examinations of the baby’s nasopharynx, as well as as a result of tests, an allergic reaction of the body in the form of thick mucus discharge from the nose was detected, parents are required to perform the following actions:

regular ventilation of the room;
wet cleaning;
frequent walks with the baby in the fresh air;
avoiding contact with the allergen.

However, as the parents themselves note, the mucus secreted from the nose as a result of contact with a certain allergen on the mucous membrane is not always white. Often, with an allergic rhinitis, a child produces clear, thick snot. However, you should not think that only allergies can cause the formation of such mucus. After all, the process of secretion in the nose is considered a completely normal protective reaction of the body. Mucus protects the respiratory tract from dust and other small particles inhaled along with the air.

Transparent thick snot also indicates that the child is not drinking enough fluid necessary for the full functioning of his body. Therefore, in addition to humidifying the air, it is also important that children drink as much liquid as possible.

With pneumonia and bronchitis, which has already become chronic, thick green snot appears in the child. But the mucus will be exactly the same color if the runny nose is advanced. With a bacterial rhinitis, when, as a result of the inflammatory process, the death of leukocytes and pathogenic microorganisms that caused the disease is noted, the nasal discharge becomes yellow-green.

Very often, parents turn to pediatricians with a complaint about the formation of thick snot in their infants, which may have the same origin as in older children. True, such a process may drag on, which is associated with complications of treatment, because an infant cannot yet blow his nose on his own, and parents do not always manage to completely clear it.

Having established the cause of the formation of thick mucus in the nasal cavity, the specialist can tell parents how to properly treat thick snot in a child.

Yellowish nasal discharge

Yellow thick snot in a child for a long time indicates weak immunity. It is advisable to begin measures to strengthen it. Otherwise, the symptom may take a chronic form.

Discharge of a yellow-green hue is a consequence of a purulent process in the nasal passages. In some cases, yellow discharge is a sign of an inflammatory process, in others it is a symptom of recovery.

Popular pediatrician Komarovsky identifies several main reasons that result in thick snot in a child. Common factors influencing this process:

ineffectiveness of treatment;
development of chronic rhinitis;
negative reaction of the body to dry air.

In newborns, the symptom may indicate excessive accumulation of mucus in the nasal passages, swelling of the mucous membrane, the development of pharyngitis and tonsillitis.

How to carry out treatment correctly?

Not all young parents know how to treat thick snot in a child, which becomes the main reason for the neglect of the disease. You should categorically refuse to independently select and use drugs against the common cold; you must first visit a specialist. If it is necessary to treat thick snot in a newborn, then you need to be very careful so as not to aggravate the course of the disease. You should do the following:

Gently rinse your baby's nose using saline or other products prescribed by your doctor. At this age, a weak decoction of chamomile is ideal, with which you can not only make the snot more liquid, but also soothe the mucous membrane.
After thinning the thick mucus, it must be carefully sucked out from the nasal passages using a syringe without a needle or a small rubber bulb.
Then you should drip the baby’s nose with medications, taking into account the symptoms of the disease. Special medications or traditional medicine can be used as antibacterial drugs. If you notice a stuffy nose, you can instill a few drops of vasoconstrictor drugs.

When treating thick snot in a child, many traditional medicines have proven themselves to be effective. You can prepare the following effective drops: mix beet, potato and carrot juice in equal quantities, dilute with water 1:2 and add 2-3 drops 2 times a day. The juices of these vegetables are strong natural antibiotics, and therefore effectively stop the spread of infection in the nasopharynx.

Parsley is also known to have the same effect on the nasal mucosa; in treatment, juice is used, which must be diluted 1:1 with water and dripped in the same way.

For thick green snot in a child, herbal drops will help: take a teaspoon each of yarrow and calendula, mix, pour a spoonful of this mixture into a glass of water and cook in a water bath for 15 minutes. Cool and drip into the nose 2 times a day.

It is important to know that when treating a runny nose in children using traditional medicine, you can only use freshly prepared remedies.

Knowing how to cure thick snot in a child, parents can begin therapy in a timely manner, preventing the runny nose from becoming protracted.

If you have questions for your doctor, please ask them on the consultation page. To do this, click on the button:

Source: NasmorkuNet.ru

General principles of treatment

Parents should not diagnose the disease in their baby by the color of mucous discharge from the nose. Even an experienced pediatrician cannot do this. There is a widespread misconception that thick green snot is a sign of a chronic bacterial respiratory infection that requires immediate antibiotic treatment. In fact, this color of nasal discharge occurs at the final stage of recovery and indicates the proper functioning of the immune system. But no matter how quickly the baby recovers, nasal congestion causes him severe discomfort, so he needs to deal with it.

Prevention measures

Sometimes nasal discharge bothers the patient constantly. In such situations, it is necessary to think about how to protect yourself from the recurrence of symptoms and illness. There are a number of simple recommendations that are aimed at people of different ages.

The following actions will help you avoid a runny nose:

The air in the apartment should be humid.
Don't get too cold.
Don't be in drafts.
During the cold season, wear hats.
Rinse your nose.

During epidemic outbreaks, coat the nasal cavity with Oxolinic ointment or eucalyptus oil. Don't be afraid to wear a gauze bandage.

Recommendations from experienced pediatricians

A special protein compound called mucin is responsible for the viscosity of nasal discharge. The immune system begins to produce it in response to viruses or bacteria entering the sinuses. Mucin binds infectious agents and prevents them from spreading to healthy organs. But there is an exception. Thick snot appears in children due to improper indoor microclimate. Dry hot air dries out the nasal mucosa, and it begins to produce a thick secretion for lubrication.

Regardless of the cause of nasal discharge in babies, to quickly eliminate it, parents should create comfortable conditions in the child’s room:

Household air humidifiers, daily cleaning, or simply placing a wet towel on the heating radiator will help increase the concentration of water vapor;
To facilitate the child’s breathing, a constant flow of fresh air should be ensured by frequent ventilation of the room;
The air temperature in the children's room should not exceed 22 °C, since at higher values infectious pathogens quickly spread in the baby's body.

Following these medical recommendations often allows you to avoid unwanted use of antibacterial agents and immunomodulators. Unlike an adult, the mucous membranes of children's noses are more sensitive due to small blood vessels located close to the surface. The more comfortable the microclimate in the room, the less often parents will have to turn to pediatricians for help.

During treatment, you need to give your baby a lot of warm, generous drinks to thin out thick snot, remove viruses, bacteria and toxic substances from the respiratory tract that are released during their growth and reproduction. To eliminate nasal congestion and strengthen the immune system, you can give your child fruit compotes, berry fruit drinks, and milk jelly. During the period of therapy, baked goods and sweets, fast food, fatty meats and fish should be excluded from the children's diet.

Therapeutic rinses

Frequent rinsing helps thin the viscous nasal mucus and remove it from the respiratory tract. Transparent snot in a small child flows not only from the nose, but also falls directly on the pharyngeal and palatal lymphoid formations. Therefore, in addition to rinsing your nose, you should also gargle your throat to prevent infection.

Many parents neglect this doctor’s advice, so they have to subsequently treat bacterial or viral sore throat. To gargle, you do not need to purchase expensive drugs - just use a slightly warmed isotonic sodium chloride solution or ordinary boiled water.

Saline dilution is also suitable for rinsing the nasal cavity. 0.9% sodium chloride solution is the main active ingredient in the following nasal sprays and drops:

Aqualor;
Aqua Maris;
Morenasal;
Rinosol.

Sometimes pediatricians recommend using Miramistin or the domestic analogue Chlorhexidine. But this method of treatment is indicated for children who know how to carry out the procedure independently and do not swallow the solution. Infusions of medicinal herbs are suitable for rinsing the nose, provided that the child is not allergic to them. You can use marigolds, chamomile, string, sage. To prepare the infusion, you need to pour a tablespoon of dry plant material with 2 cups of boiling water for 2 hours, and strain after cooling.

Parents of newborns and infants often face the problem of evacuating mucus from the nasal passages after it has liquefied. Special devices will come to the rescue - aspirators, which are sold in any pharmacy. More expensive ones are equipped with a tube for suctioning snot, and cheaper options are not much different from a regular syringe.

Why does my child have clear snot?

There is a group of factors that can lead to the appearance of abundant clear mucus from the nasal passages in a child:

ARVI. This is the most common viral infection. The initial clinical picture is manifested by dry mucous membranes, sore throat, then the patient sneezes and his nose is stuffy. On the second day, the child develops liquid, transparent snot - this means that the body has begun to actively fight the infection.
Allergic reaction. If the clinical symptoms do not indicate the course of a viral disease, and the characteristic discharge bothers the small patient, we are talking about the possibility of an allergic cause of the phenomenon.
Time of active tooth growth. Transparent snot in a baby often indicates just such changes. This process starts from six months and ends by 2–3 years. In addition to nasal mucus, the baby develops increased salivation. The symptoms that appear are caused by the active flow of blood to the gums and nasopharynx at the time of teething.
Dry air. When the room is hot, low humidity has a detrimental effect on the nasal mucosa, threatening the latter with drying out. As a result, the body’s self-defense is activated, which is expressed in the production of a large amount of secretion.
Adaptation period. A baby may develop snot immediately after birth. In this case, we are talking about a physiological runny nose, which is caused by the reaction of the child’s body to new living conditions and the structural features of the newborn’s nasopharynx.

Attention! A less common cause of clear snot is the presence of a foreign body in the child's nasal passage. The same applies to whooping cough, mononucleosis, rubella, chickenpox and measles - infectious diseases accompanied by the manifestation of a characteristic symptom.

Treatment of nasal congestion

Yellow, thick snot in a child may indicate a developing bacterial respiratory infection. Even if the baby feels well, he should be taken to the pediatrician for a thorough examination. If the parents' suspicions are justified, the doctor will prescribe nasal sprays with antibacterial ingredients:

Bioparox;
Isofra;
Rinofluimucil;
Polydexa.

The use of these drugs must be alternated with frequent nasal rinsing. Oral antibiotics are prescribed in the treatment of bacterial rhinitis only when general symptoms of a respiratory infection develop - high fever, dyspeptic disorders, decreased motor activity. When viruses become the cause of thick snot, antiviral nasal drops, for example, Grippferon or Interferon, can be used in treatment.

For nasal congestion, uncomplicated sore throat or bronchitis, the pediatrician recommends the following drugs for injection or instillation:

Rhinonorm;
Tizin;
Galazolin;
Xylometazoline;
Xylene.

Vasoconstrictors are not used in the treatment of rhinitis in children under two years of age. There are only a few exceptions - Nazol Baby and Nazivin for infants, which are used in the treatment of infants from six months. When purchasing sprays and drops, you need to inform the pharmacist that the drugs are needed with a low concentration of the active substance (usually 0.05%). Experienced pediatricians with thick transparent snot prefer not to prescribe nasal products with natural ingredients (Pinosol) to children. They contain a lot of essential oils, and their consistency is excessively viscous, which causes an increase in the density of mucus.

An important rule for using vasoconstrictor sprays and drops is that the duration of the therapeutic course should not exceed five days. If this medical recommendation is violated, the child will develop a dependence and will not be able to breathe normally without another instillation. If after five days nasal congestion persists, you should contact your pediatrician. The doctor will replace the drug with a drug with a different active ingredient or suggest a new method of therapy.

Inhalations

Inhalations will help cure a child of thick snot.

Contraindications to the procedures are elevated body temperature or an acute inflammatory process occurring in the respiratory tract. In all other cases, inhalation is a quick and effective way to deal with nasal congestion. If the baby is often diagnosed with bacterial or viral rhinitis, then it is advisable for parents to purchase a compressor or ultrasonic nebulizer at the pharmacy.

The device is equipped with special masks and attachments for children of any age. To carry out the procedure, you need to pour any of the following into the compartment:

isotonic sodium chloride solution;
still mineral water.

For complicated rhinitis, the pediatrician may prescribe bronchodilators, antibacterial or mucolytic solutions that help thin the viscous mucus and remove it from the nasopharynx. Infusions and decoctions of medicinal herbs are not used in all nebulizer models. In the absence of a device, inhalation at home is carried out using any enamel container. Pour a hot solution into it, tilt the baby and cover the head with a thick towel. The child should inhale the healing steam through his nose for 5 minutes, and then a short break is necessary to prevent irritation of the mucous membrane.

Essential oils will help relieve nasal congestion and reduce the viscosity of mucus:

fir;
pine trees;
lemon balm;
thyme;
eucalyptus.

To prepare the solution, add 3-4 drops of essential oil to a liter of hot water and stir thoroughly. Inhalation procedures with propolis are used to eliminate symptoms of infection - rhinitis, cough, sore throat. A pinch of crushed propolis should be boiled in 0.5 liters of water for 10 minutes and the hot aromatic steam should be inhaled. This method of treatment can be used provided that the child is not allergic to a bee product.

If thick snot is not accompanied by fever or severe malaise, then doctors recommend short walks in the fresh air. They help strengthen the baby's immunity, improve breathing and blood circulation. Fun outdoor games in the park or on the playground will be an excellent prevention of rhinitis in children.

Source: izbavsa.ru

Causes

Why does my child have a stuffy nose? This happens primarily for reasons such as:

ARVI (a disease of the respiratory organs of a viral nature).
Allergy.
Teething.
Vasomotor rhinitis.

During a respiratory infection, the virus infects the epithelial cells that line the nasal cavity, and an inflammatory process occurs in the area of damage - rhinitis. Of great importance is the body's immune reactivity, that is, the ability of the immune system to resist the invasion of a viral agent, as well as the influence of hypothermia as a contributing factor.

Rhinitis in children with allergies can be an isolated pathology or act as a symptom included in the clinical picture of bronchial asthma.

In this case, nasal congestion and secretion are combined with coughing and episodes of difficult wheezing.

In pediatric practice, there are quite a few cases where rhinitis is accompanied by teething. In a child 1.5 years old and up to 3 years old inclusive, snot can be observed every time a new tooth appears. This condition does not require treatment if rhinitis is not a consequence of infection or allergy, and goes away on its own after the tooth has erupted.

Vasomotor rhinitis is a type of non-allergic rhinitis, characterized by nasal congestion, impaired sense of smell, and the presence of clear discharge. It is a reaction to trigger factors: cold air, tobacco smoke, strong odors, ozone, etc.

Why does clear mucus appear?

The nasal passages are constantly moistened with a special secretion. In normal condition, the nasal mucosa works continuously, although the person does not notice it. It moisturizes and warms the air entering the lungs and serves as protection against infection and dust. If pathogens or allergens enter the nose, increased mucus production begins, the purpose of which is to remove foreign elements from the body.

In what cases is clear mucus released from the nose:

in case of respiratory diseases of viral etiology - at the beginning of ARVI, mucus flows from the nose, the child constantly sneezes, his temperature rises, and a cough appears;
in a dry climate - insufficient air humidity causes the mucous membrane to produce too much mucus, and liquid discharge resembling water appears from the nose;
when teething - the baby develops severe salivation and clear running snot, as a result of increased blood supply to the gums at the time teeth appear;
with allergies - the disease occurs without fever, a runny nose is provoked by a certain allergen, for example, pollen, animal hair, cosmetics, food.

Sometimes liquid and transparent snot, like water, flows from the nose of a small child after eating too hot food, while crying, due to a nervous disorder. If a newborn has a runny nose immediately after birth, it means the body is adapting to new conditions.

Thick clear nasal discharge and cough appear during an acute respiratory illness when a bacterial infection occurs. Viscous light mucus signals that the disease is advanced and the child’s body lacks fluid. The room where the child is is too dry. The air must be constantly humidified.

White stringy mucus flowing from the nose is viral in nature. If bacteria and white blood cells fighting them accumulate in the mucus, it thickens and turns yellow or greenish. As microbes multiply and pathology progresses, it will become sticky.

In the case of viral-bacterial rhinitis, transparent green mucus flows from the child’s nose. An inflammatory process begins in the body, the mucous membrane swells. Prolonged rhinitis can develop into otitis media or sinusitis. Yellow mucus and severe headaches may indicate sinusitis.

Important! If your child has thick nasal discharge, you need to pay attention to its shade. Green mucus is characteristic of a bacterial infection. If your baby has thick but clear mucous discharge, he may have an allergy.

Clear nasal discharge

White thick snot in a child should not be a cause for concern. They develop under the negative influence of infections and bacteria. Thus, the body tries to get rid of the harmful substance on its own. In rare cases, the symptom indicates the development of adenoids in the nose. This phenomenon is typical for newborns.

White thick snot in a baby may be a consequence of previous illnesses. These include:

flu;
acute respiratory disease;
measles.

Nasal discharge may be associated with dental caries, which makes the diagnosis much more difficult.

According to experts, white mucus is completely normal. Transparent thick discharge may appear when crying, after dust and other particles enter the nasal passages.

The consistency of snot indicates the severity of the process and the stage of development of the disease. Clear snot in newborns is a consequence of constant crying.

Treatment methods for runny nose

Before treating a small child, he should be examined by a pediatrician. If clear mucus pours from the nose, it means the baby has an acute respiratory viral infection or an allergy. Children are prescribed to undergo examination by an otolaryngologist or allergist. Regardless of the prescribed course of therapy, the child must clean his nose to improve breathing. Infants who cannot blow their nose on their own should do this with the help of an aspirator.

If the snot has become so thick that it cannot be removed from the nose, it must first be thinned using pharmaceutical sprays based on sea water (Aqua Maris, Aqualor, Quix) or prepared herbal tinctures and saline solutions. If children know how to blow their nose on their own, parents need to make sure they do it constantly. It is recommended to regularly wet clean the room, ventilate the room daily, and drink as much fluid as possible.

For ARVI

For influenza, acute respiratory viral infections, and viral infections, it is not the symptoms that are treated, but the disease itself. Transparent and liquid mucus from the nose signals that the body is fighting viruses. At an early stage, the disease can be cured within a week.

Treatment method for runny nose:

Prescription of antipyretic drugs (syrups, suppositories): Ibuprofen (for children from 6 months), Panadol (from 3 months), Paracetamol (from 3 months), Children's Tylenol (if the child is 3 years old).
Use of expectorants and mucolytics: Rinofluimucil spray (from 5 years), Sinuforte.
Antiviral drops: Grippferon, Nazoferon, Derinat.
Homeopathic remedies: Delufen, Rinitol.
Medications for nasal rinsing: Aqualor, Salin, Aqua Maris.

Vasoconstrictor drops are not prescribed for the treatment of a runny nose of viral etiology. These medications are used to treat allergies or sinusitis. To soften the mucous membrane and improve nasal breathing during ARVI, Pinosol or Evamenol are used.

Important! If a child is under 2 years old, he should not be given mucolytics. The drugs cause complications in the respiratory tract. Rinsing the nose, drinking plenty of fluids, and humidifying the air in the room can get the same effect without any risk to health.

For allergies

Before you begin treatment for such a runny nose, you need to eliminate the allergen.

Medicines for the treatment of allergies:

Claritin;
Gismanal;
Erius.

Nasal antihistamines:

Ifiral;
Cromosol;
Sanorin.

Vasoconstrictor medications:

Otrivin;
Farmazolin;
Vibrocil;
Nazol Baby.

Important! If it is not possible to get rid of nasal congestion due to allergies, the runny nose does not go away for a long time, the child is prescribed hormonal nasal sprays. The following medications are safe: Nasonex, Avamis.

Treatment methods

How to treat clear snot in children? First of all, the child should be examined by a pediatrician. Most often, he also prescribes treatment, since in most cases a runny nose is a symptom of ARVI. If a viral infection is ruled out, the attending physician will recommend being examined by an otolaryngologist and an allergist.

For ARVI

The treatment regimen for a child with ARVI is approximately the same and is carried out according to a protocol approved by the World Health Organization (WHO). A runny nose in itself cannot be treated as a symptom. Nasal discharge, if it is clear and liquid, indicates that the mucous membrane is coping well with the virus.

Antipyretic. ARVI and influenza, volatile viral infections rarely occur without fever. If the temperature is above 38 °C, the doctor will recommend antipyretic drugs based on paracetamol or ibuprofen in an age-appropriate dosage. High temperature leads to dehydration of the body and drying out of the mucous membrane, so liquid discharge from the nose on the 3rd or 4th day may turn into thick transparent snot or acquire a cloudy white, yellowish, greenish tint.
Expectorant and mucolytic drugs. Prescribed if a cough appears during ARVI. Often, with abundant liquid snot, the cough is physiological in nature. During sleep, liquid flows down the back wall of the nasopharynx, enters the pharynx, irritates the mucous membrane and causes a cough. This symptom is not relieved by expectorants and mucolytic drugs; usually the cough goes away after waking up, and the child does not cough during the day.
Antiviral. Prescribed orally or locally. The most commonly used nasal antiviral drops are “Grippferon”, “Nazoferon”. Oxolinic ointment is used for preventive purposes.
Homeopathic. Prescribed for the complex treatment of acute respiratory viral infections internally and locally. The most famous homeopathic nasal drops: Euphorbium Compositum, Delufen, Rinitol. Thuja oil is actively used, which well moisturizes the mucous membrane and prevents the formation of thick mucus.
Features of care. With ARVI, natural recovery occurs much faster if the child is provided with normal drinking conditions and moist and cool air. If these conditions are not met, liquid snot quickly turns into thick snot, nasal breathing becomes difficult, and the risk of spreading the virus and the addition of a secondary bacterial infection increases.
Nasal rinsing. A mandatory procedure for the treatment of a runny nose of any nature: viral, fungal, bacterial. Nasal rinsing is not prescribed only for allergic rhinitis, since it can lead to even greater congestion and will not provide a therapeutic effect. Rinse the nose with pharmaceutical saline solutions in the form of sprays: “Salin”, “Aqualor”, “Aqua Maris”. You can use saline solution or make a saline solution at home. After the rinsing procedure, the doctor may prescribe Pinosol or Evamenol to soften the mucous membrane and facilitate nasal breathing.

The use of vasoconstrictor drugs for ARVI is inappropriate. They are prescribed for otitis, sinusitis, and allergic rhinitis. Vasoconstrictor drops can cause irreparable damage to the nasal mucosa, leading to acute dependence on the drug, swelling, constant congestion, and an allergic reaction. Many otolaryngologists complain that problems with the ENT organs in children begin after the uncontrolled use of nasal vasoconstrictors.

Allergic runny nose

Allergic rhinitis in children can be seasonal, associated with flowering plants. Most often this happens in spring and early summer. But also allergic (vasomotor) runny nose can occur throughout the year, regardless of the season. In addition to clear snot, the child may experience the following symptoms:

redness, rashes on the skin;
itching in the nose, eyes, ears;
frequent sneezing;
nasal congestion.

What can an allergist recommend?

Room hygiene. Allergic rhinitis can be provoked by: mites living in household dust; clothing dyes, washing powder, household chemicals; hygiene products; tobacco smoke; pet hair; medications.
Hypoallergenic diet. Citrus fruits, chocolate, fish, seafood, honey, eggs, smoked meats, and canned food are excluded.
Antihistamines. These medications block the effect of the hormone histamine on the mucous membranes, thereby eliminating itching, swelling, nasal congestion, and excessive discharge. Second and third generation antihistamines are usually prescribed: Loratadine, Erius, Claritin, Zyrtec, Telfast, Gismanal and other drugs in syrup and tablets. The most commonly prescribed nasal antihistamines are: Allergodil, Ifiral, Cromosol, Histimet, Sanorin.
Vasoconstrictor drugs. Prescribed for prolonged difficult nasal breathing. The most commonly used are: “Nazol Baby”, “Vibrocil”, “Otrivin”, “Galazolin”, “Olint”, “Tizin”, “Farmazolin”. Among nasal vasoconstrictors, there are drugs of strong and mild action. Positive reviews about Vibrocil drops, which have not only a vasoconstrictor, but also an antiallergic effect.
Hormonal drugs for local treatment. These include nasal sprays. They are prescribed only when nasal congestion due to allergic rhinitis cannot be eliminated by any other means. Avamis and Nasonex are considered safe for children. Use strictly as prescribed by a doctor. As with vasoconstrictors, the effect of hormonal sprays occurs quickly, but addiction to it also quickly occurs.

Transparent snot in a baby

First of all, ARVI is excluded. If there are no other respiratory symptoms (cough, high temperature), most likely the baby's clear snot is a reaction to teething. During this period, the doctor will recommend protecting the child from contact with people. Against the backdrop of teething and a weakened immune system, the baby can easily catch a viral infection. Clear snot during teething cannot be treated in any way. The pediatrician will recommend daily nasal hygiene to prevent drying out of the mucous membrane and the formation of dry crusts. If an infant is diagnosed with ARVI, measles, rubella, chickenpox, whooping cough and other infections, the pediatrician prescribes appropriate drug treatment.

Read more about the treatment of a runny nose in a baby in our other article.

If your child has clear snot and no fever or other respiratory symptoms, this may indicate allergic rhinitis. Also, in children under three years of age, especially in the first year of life, it is necessary to exclude teething. In other cases, clear snot is a sign of a viral infection, which is accompanied by fever, cough, redness in the throat, headache, and general intoxication.

Snot in a baby

If the child does not have a high fever and cough, this means that the snot appears due to teething. Their first appearance in infants is observed at 6 months, and the rest - up to 3 years. Transparent mucus released from the nose during teething cannot be treated with anything. During this period, it is necessary to regularly clean the passages from mucus and crusts accumulated there.

With ARVI, in addition to a runny nose, the child develops a fever, cough, and may experience upset bowel movements. The baby becomes whiny, capricious, and does not want to eat. Dr. Komarovsky advises giving the child plenty of fluids, regularly cleaning the nose, and humidifying the air in the room. Clothes should be light and spacious, the baby should not steam or sweat.

To thin the mucus of a 7-month-old child, you can drip a self-prepared saline solution into the nose (1 teaspoon of salt per 1 liter of boiled water). You can use Aqua Maris, but not as a spray, but in drops. If the child is under 1 year old, Panadol and Ibuprofen can be used to relieve fever. Viral infections are not treated with antibiotics.

Important! It is forbidden for the child to put mustard plasters on or soar his feet. You cannot treat a baby yourself without consulting a pediatrician.

The appearance of clear snot in a baby

If a similar runny nose appears in a baby, first of all it is necessary to exclude the presence of a cold. In the absence of other characteristic ARVI symptoms, the cause of a runny nose is most likely teething. Most often, this reaction of the body occurs in children from six months to two years. In some cases this period is extended to three years. This kind of runny nose is periodic; it can last a week or 2 weeks, then the symptoms subside. Specific treatment is usually not prescribed; during this period the doctor recommends:

carry out hygienic measures to rinse the nasal passages every day to eliminate the risk of drying out the mucous membrane;
protect newborns from contact with people, since weakened immunity makes it easy to catch a viral infection;
humidify the air in the room where the baby is growing.

If infants are diagnosed with rubella, chickenpox, ARVI, measles, whooping cough, the doctor recommends that they undergo appropriate treatment, after which the snot will go away along with the rest of the symptoms.

If clear liquid flows from the nose even after treatment, it means that the therapy was chosen incorrectly, and the child should be shown to a doctor as soon as possible.

During pregnancy

Transparent discharge during pregnancy can be caused by allergies, acute respiratory viral infections, or decreased immunity. Whatever the reason, a runny nose must be treated. Clean the nose regularly using saline solutions, herbal infusions or pharmaceutical preparations (Aqua Maris, Humer).

Cold rhinitis in early pregnancy is treated with inhalations based on medicinal herbs (St. John's wort, chamomile, calendula, coltsfoot). You can add soda to the liquid; it thins mucus well. The head is not covered with a towel; the procedure lasts 10 minutes. Do not inhale at high temperatures.

In the first trimester, you should stop taking many medications that are usually taken for ARVI. They can harm the fetus developing in the mother's body. The nose can be instilled with honey, diluted juice of aloe, beets, onions, and carrots. In case of allergic rhinitis, you should determine the cause that causes the reaction and try not to come into contact with the allergen.

During the last months of pregnancy, women can use many medications to treat colds. Vibrocil is used to relieve swelling. It is allowed to use Nazivin. For allergic rhinitis - Nazaval. Interferon-based or antibiotic-based products can only be prescribed by the attending physician.

Prevention of a runny nose

To prevent the occurrence of a runny nose, the room must be regularly ventilated, constantly wet cleaned, and the air in the room must be humidified. The child needs to be outside every day. You should dress according to the season. During a flu epidemic, try not to visit crowded places.

You should constantly strengthen your immune system. To do this, you need to exercise, eat healthy and well, eat a lot of fresh vegetables and fruits. If the cause of a runny nose is an allergy, it is necessary to avoid contact with allergens and drink as much fluid as possible.

Source: lechim-prosto.ru

Treatment of a runny nose

Above we looked at the main reasons why a child has clear snot. Parents of children should remember that self-medication is inadmissible - the use of any medications must be agreed with the pediatrician. The basic method of dealing with a runny nose is cleaning and rinsing the nasal passages. The use of medications is necessary against the background of respiratory infections and allergies

Fighting allergies

Antihistamines help eliminate acute allergic reactions. If there is no threat to the life or health of the child, the doctor prescribes oral medication. In other cases, intravenous infusion of appropriate solutions is possible. During periods of seasonal exacerbations, doctors insist on prophylactic use of drugs with proven effectiveness. Parents should exclude their child from contact with allergens and prevent them from entering the apartment or house. During flowering plants, you should increase the frequency and intensity of wet cleaning in your home.

Eliminating symptoms of respiratory infections

Drug therapy should be carried out in accordance with the doctor's recommendations. Parents should call a pediatrician at home. During the examination, a diagnosis will be determined and a list of medications will be generated that will eliminate the symptoms of ARVI. The basis of treatment will be medications of several groups:

antipyretics,
painkillers,
antiviral,
immunomodulatory.

Why did thick snot appear?

Doctors specializing in the treatment of pathologies of the ENT organs differentiate several types of consistency and color of discharge:

thick transparent snot;
white viscous;
transparent liquid;
yellow;
green.

Each type of mucus is part of the entire diagnosis, which allows you to find out the cause of the pathology and choose an integrated approach to alleviate the baby’s condition.

A specific protein, mucin, is responsible for the consistency of nasal discharge in humans. It is produced by the mucous membrane of the nasal cavity in response to the invasion of pathogenic microflora. Clinical studies have revealed that the production of mucin represents a natural defense response of the body and indicates the active functioning of the immune system. The more severe the disease and the more serious the attack of viruses on the body, it is more actively involved. Discharge changes over time and the development of the disease.

Why is snot transparent?

Liquid transparent snot in an adult

The causes of liquid transparent snot may be some factors that are not related to pathological conditions or diseases, for example, being in the cold, too dry air, playing sports, a dusty room, etc. However, in most cases, the appearance of copious liquid discharge from the nose indicates an allergic reaction or a cold. With allergies, in addition to clear snot, sneezing, watery eyes, and red eyes are usually observed. In case of colds, liquid transparent discharge from the nasal passages is observed at the first stage of the disease, later the color and consistency of the discharge changes, it becomes thicker and acquires a white or yellowish color.

Thick transparent snot in an adult

Viscous and thick snot that does not have a distinct color or is colorless can be released when there is a lack of fluid in the body. Other reasons for this phenomenon are chronic pathologies of the nasopharynx and sinuses: sinusitis, pharyngitis, rhinitis, sinusitis, etc.

White transparent snot in an adult

White snot in adults can appear due to diseases such as allergies, nasal polyps, ethmoiditis, purulent adenoiditis, sinusitis and others. The cause of the development of the inflammatory process may be the entry into the nasal cavity of a streptococcal infection, injury to the adenoids or mucous membrane.

Transparent yellow snot in an adult

Darker color of snot may be a sign of complications or serious illnesses. Thus, the brownish-yellow or reddish color of the discharge is often associated with the presence of blood particles in the mucus. This condition can occur due to injuries to the mucosa. Dark yellow or brown snot usually appears with sinusitis or other complications of a runny nose. Pronounced yellow discharge indicates the development of a purulent process in the nasopharynx or sinuses. In addition, smoking can cause yellowish snot.

Why does snot turn white, yellow and green?

Infectious pathologies, common in the autumn-spring period, in 95% of cases are accompanied by the appearance of viscous snot in the child. Depending on their shade, the doctor determines the probable cause of rhinitis. Why is there green snot? When pathogens enter the nasal mucosa, mucin production increases and the number of neutrophils increases. They attack and destroy pathogenic particles. This is called phagocytosis. The external manifestation is green viscous snot in the child.

White stringy snot in a child indicates that the following is happening in the body:

recovery from an infectious disease;
development of complications as a result of viral attacks;
polyp growth;
adenoiditis;
the appearance of allergic reactions (due to room conditions, the presence of pathogens, and so on).

White stringy snot in a child requires timely treatment.

Transparent viscous snot in a child indicates that a virus has entered the baby’s body. A few days later, the condition will deteriorate as a result of ARVI. Yellow mucus is a sign of inflammation that occurs in the paranasal sinuses. Frontal sinusitis, sinusitis, sinusitis - these pathological processes require immediate consultation with a specialist and the selection of a comprehensive course of therapy. It should include antibiotics to prevent the development of complications.

Transparent snot in an adult: causes and symptoms

Transparent snot of an allergic nature

Allergies are one of the most common causes of profuse clear snot. Under the influence of certain substances that are allergens, the mucous membrane begins to intensively secrete protective proteins. This leads to increased formation of a protective secretion, which is necessary to remove substances that irritate it from the nasal cavity. Copious clear allergic snot can be caused by contact with dust, flower or tree pollen, perfumes or cosmetics, food, animal hair and other substances.

The general condition of a person during an allergic reaction does not suffer much. He has no signs of intoxication or inflammation. Signs of an allergy can be: copious liquid discharge from the nose, severe watery eyes, sneezing, redness and swelling of the mucous membranes of the eyes, rash, itching, difficulty breathing, etc.

Clear snot during a cold

Transparent snot can appear with colds. In such cases, timely and complete treatment is necessary, since otherwise the cold can develop into more serious diseases: sinusitis, sinusitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, frontal sinusitis and others. Transparent snot is characteristic of the first stage of a cold, later it becomes thicker and acquires a yellowish or greenish tint.

In some cases, mild whitish or colorless nasal discharge occurs due to diseases of the ears or teeth. This indicates the penetration of infection into the nasopharynx, its swelling and inflammation.

Other causes of clear snot in adults

There are many more reasons for the appearance of clear discharge in adults. Many of them are not pathological, these are:

excessively dry air in the room;
snot appears when a person cries;
eating too hot food;
drinking carbonated drinks;
prolonged stay in a room with polluted air;
Morning nasal discharge is associated with the accumulation of mucus during the night.

For pathological reasons, in addition to allergies and colds, the appearance of clear snot can be caused by minor injuries to the mucous membrane, inflammatory processes in the nasopharynx and throat, polyposis of the mucous membrane, the use of certain drugs, vasomotor rhinitis, etc.

How to treat thick snot in a child

What should be the treatment for thick transparent snot? Such discharge indicates the beginning of an infectious process. If its course is mild, then after a few days the baby will begin to recover. Specific therapy is simply not required. You can get rid of thick snot in a child by regularly rinsing the nasal passages using medications based on sea water. In case of severe congestion, the use of vasoconstrictors that relieve the state of hypoxia is indicated.

Medicines for the treatment of thick snot in a child should be selected by a specialist. The green tint of nasal discharge indicates the presence of a pathogen in the body. The basis of the treatment process is three stages:

thinning of secretions;
removing mucus from the nasal passage;
use of medications to alleviate the patient's condition.

Consultation with an ENT specialist will allow you to choose an effective comprehensive treatment. Thanks to him, the recovery process after an illness will be quick, and the risk of complications will be minimal.

Drug treatment

Treatment of a runny nose in children is directly related to the cause of its occurrence, as well as the individual characteristics of the body. The first stage is the liquefaction and removal of viscous secretions. For this purpose, saline solution or preparations based on sea water are used. They change the density of secretions and facilitate the process of removing snot from the nasal passages.

The next step is the use of vasoconstrictor drugs to facilitate breathing. For bacterial rhinitis, a specialist prescribes agents with an antibacterial effect. They contain local antibiotics, as well as vasoconstrictor components. In case of an allergic reaction of the body, antihistamines, corticosteroids and sorbents are indicated. Immunomodulators that activate the local immune system deserve special attention.

Nasal rinsing

For a child, rinsing the nose and removing secretions is an unpleasant procedure. Specialized tools can make it easier. They gently spray sea water without causing negative emotions in the baby. After irrigating the mucous membrane with a nasal rinse, wait 3 to 5 minutes to achieve the maximum therapeutic effect. Young children will not be able to blow mucus out on their own. You can remove it using a cotton swab, an aspirator or a small medical syringe.

Inhalations

Inhalations have a beneficial effect on the healing process. The optimal solution would be to purchase a nebulizer, which converts the drug solution into steam. Its particles settle on the mucous membrane and have a local effect on the cause of the pathology. The duration of the manipulation is on average 8–10 minutes.

Inhalations are prohibited at body temperatures above 37.2

Traditional methods

Traditional medicine offers accessible and effective methods of getting rid of the symptoms of the disease. They can be used simultaneously with medications to achieve the best results.

Well proven:

Decoctions of chamomile, yarrow, calendula. Used as a solution for inhalation and rinsing.
Propolis. Effective against inflammation, promotes rapid regeneration of damaged tissues.
Aloe has an anti-inflammatory effect. The squeezed juice should be instilled in case of thick snot.
Eucalyptus works as a bactericide.

It is important to ensure that the patient does not have an allergic reaction to the ingredients of the solution (plant juice) before use. Acupressure has a beneficial effect when the first signs of the disease appear. Blood flow improves, points that are responsible for strengthening the immune system are activated.

Snot in a baby should not be treated using traditional methods. The risk of complications is too great. Putting milk in your nose, for example, is not only ineffective, but also harmful. This mother's remedy is unable to reach the epithelium due to mucus. And after just a few minutes it will become an excellent breeding ground for pathogenic microorganisms.

How to treat clear snot in a child?

Due to age characteristics, a child’s body requires a special approach to treatment.

Parents are interested in questions about what to drip for children, whether there are other dosage forms (tablets, syrups, powders) to cure a runny nose.

The choice of therapy depends entirely on the causes of the disease.

At a temperature where the discharge is thick and difficult to breathe, antiviral drops are prescribed. They have a vasoconstrictor effect, relieve swelling, and restore the patency of the nasal passages.

Short-acting drugs:

Naphthyzin;
Vibrocil;
Nazol Baby;
Polydex;
Sanorin.

Medium acting drugs:

Otrivin;
Tizin;
Adrianol.

Long-acting medications (up to 6 years only used as prescribed by a doctor!):

Nazivin;
Afrin;
Fasin.

If the baby has infectious rhinitis, then the medicine Protargol is prescribed.
It is a good antiseptic and, compared to antibiotics, does not lead to dysbacteriosis. Indicated for children aged 1 year and older. Protalgol with clear discharge relieves swelling, reduces sensitivity and irritation of the mucous membrane.

Silver, which is part of it, creates a protective film and suppresses the proliferation of pathogenic microorganisms.

Preparations: Protargol nasal drops: solution. Instructions and reviews

Sialor Protargol: instructions for use of drops. Reviews

If the snot flows like a river, without fever, but breathing through the nose is partially preserved, wash each nasal passage with saline solution ─ Salin, Dolphin, Aqua Maris, AquaLor, Sinomarin.

Sialor Aqua, based on natural ingredients, has proven itself well. The drug is designed and created specifically for children.

It can be used from birth. The composition includes ions and sea water, which gently moisturizes the dry mucous membrane and helps get rid of crusts.

Ions increase local immunity and prevent the introduction of viruses. The maximum course of treatment is 1 month. There are no contraindications or side effects.

To strengthen the immune system and maintain general condition, Tsinabsin is indicated - a homeopathic drug that relieves inflammation, stimulates the immune system, and facilitates breathing.

It is prescribed for chronic inflammation of the sinuses, when the patient constantly produces clear snot with white clots like jelly. Available in tablets.

There are no age restrictions on taking the drug. Children should take pills only in the presence of an adult, under his strict supervision.

If the child is under 3 years old, the medicine can be dissolved in a small amount of water.

Important

In the treatment of a runny nose, the main thing is not to allow the mucous membrane to dry out, as this prolongs the healing process. Dryness is the entry point for secondary infection.

Conditions for rapid recovery:

humid air in the room (50-70%), especially in winter;
drinking enough;
clothing such that the child does not sweat;
regular walks in the fresh air;
elimination of irritating factors ─ the smell of perfumes, household chemicals.