Should I use saline drops in my baby's nose every day?

Does daily nasal saline drops for children reduce the risk of allergies, irritation and prevent rhinitis? Please advise, doctor. (Son, 29 years old)

Reply:

0.9% saline is a product that many parents use to wash their children's faces, eyes, and noses. However, this is not necessary.

Parents do not need to use saline drops in their nose and eyes every day to prevent rhinitis. The baby's nose has a natural amount of fluid to lubricate the mucosa, preventing bacteria and dirt from entering. Overuse of saline can cause the baby's nose to lose its natural mucosal protection layer, gradually increasing the risk of dry nose, rhinitis, and nasal irritation.

In addition, the purpose of nasal drops or nasal irrigation is to clean the nose if the child has rhinitis or a runny nose, and is not beneficial when the child's mucous membranes are healthy. Parents should only wash the nose in case the child has an illness such as a cough or runny nose.

During the first month after birth, the baby's eyes are prone to watery eyes and eye discharge. You can use saline to clean the eyes. However, you need to use it according to the doctor's instructions and prescription. For example, use saline when the baby's eyes are dusty or inflamed. If the baby's eyes are normal, using saline drops every day can cause the baby's eyes to become dry, have keratitis, and affect the function of the eyes later on.

Children's skin is often sensitive. Do not overuse salt water to clean the face every day, as this can cause dry skin and skin irritation. Children only need to wash their face with clean water every day.

Absolutely do not mix saline solution yourself, there is a risk of infection due to unsanitary mixing tools, causing damage to the mucous membranes of the nose, throat, and eyes.

Doctor Nguyen Huu Thao

Head of Intensive Care and Anti-Poison Department, Vinh Phuc Maternity and Pediatrics Hospital

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