Mucus in the nose is typically caused by viral or bacterial infection, but allergies, medications and pregnancy are other possible triggers, according to the National Institutes of Health. While generally nothing more than a nuisance, chronic nasal congestion can interfere with sleeping and eating or lead to problems with speech and hearing in children. Adults and older children can remove mucus from the nose by using a saline nose solution and blowing. Younger children and babies are unable to blow their noses, which means the mucus must be suctioned out.
How to Remove Mucus in Adults
Step 1
Purchase a commercial saline nose wash solution at your local pharmacy. Alternatively, you can make your own saline solution by mixing 1/4 tsp. of table salt with 1/2 cup of warm water. National Jewish Health suggests adding a pinch of baking soda to the solution to minimize any burning caused by the salt.
Step 2
Tilt your head up and back, or lie down on a bed and place a small pillow or rolled towel beneath your shoulders.
Step 3
Use an eyedropper to administer three drops of saline into each nostril. Allow the saline to remain inside your nose for one minute to soften the mucus.
Step 4
Tilt your head forward and let the saline drain from your nostrils onto a tissue or small towel.
Step 5
Blow your nose to expel as much mucus as possible. If mucus remains, use a tissue and rub around the outer edge of your nostrils to pull the remaining mucus out of your nose.
Step 6
Take a decongestant or antihistamine to clear up mucus located higher in your nose or sinus cavity. The National Institutes of Health warns that antihistamines may cause drowsiness, and decongestants should not be used for longer than three days to prevent a worsening in congestion.
How to Remove Mucus in Babies
Step 1
Lay your baby in your lap, with his head near your knees and his feet against your stomach. Angle his head back slightly so that you can easily see his nostrils.
Step 2
Administer two drops of saline into each nostril using an eyedropper. Let the saline remain inside the nostrils for 5 to 10 seconds. This will loosen any dried mucus and make removal easier.
Step 3
Squeeze the bulb end of the bulb syringe to expel any air and create a vacuum, and then insert the tip of the bulb syringe into one nostril. Place the tip just inside the nostril.
Step 4
Release pressure on the bulb slowly to suction the mucus out of your baby's nose. Remove the bulb syringe and then squeeze it forcefully over a tissue to expel the mucus collected from your baby's nose.
Step 5
Repeat the process on the other nostril. If mucus remains inside your baby's nose, administer more saline and attempt suctioning again. BabyCenter cautions against suctioning your baby's nose more than three times each day. Excessive suctioning can irritate the lining of his nose and increase soreness.
Step 6
Clean the bulb syringe between uses by filling it with warm soapy water, shaking it, and then rinsing it with clean water. Store it with the tip pointed downward to dry.
Tips and Warnings
- Make a fresh saline solution before every nasal wash. Running a humidifier inside your home can help relieve nasal congestion. Ohio State University recommends using a bulb syringe on your baby before feeding, as it may cause your infant to gag and vomit when used soon after eating.
Things You'll Need
- Saline nose solution
- Baking soda
- Eyedropper
- Tissues
- Over-the-counter decongestant or antihistamine
- Bulb syringe
- Humidifier
Member Comments