Areas prone to congestion start in the nasal passages of the nose and extend all the way down into the lungs. How you manage your child's congestion is going to depend somewhat on the area affected and your child's age. Although it is scary to hear a child struggling to breathe, most problems can benefit from home treatment. If the child is running a fever, has green discharge coming from the nose or is under the age of 2, you will need to get your pediatrician involved.
Step 1
Set up a humidifier in any room your child frequents. The moist air helps keep nasal passages from drying out, and it thins mucus.
Step 2
Offer more fluids. Increasing fluid intake helps to loosen mucus sitting in the lungs and bronchial tubes. Stick to water, juice and broth.
Step 3
Sit smaller children and infants in your lap. Lean them forward at the waist and gently tap on their backs. This loosens congestion and promotes coughing.
Step 4
Encourage older children to cough. This is the only way to keep congestion moving in the bronchial passages.
Tips and Warnings
- If you notice your child is pulling on her earlobe or has discharge coming from either eye, see a doctor. This indicates infection. Talk to your doctor before giving a child any over-the-counter cough syrup or cold medication. There may side effects even if the drug is designed for a child.
- A child running a fever of 103 degrees Fahrenheit or above needs to be examined by a medical professional. If your baby runs a temperature over 100 degrees for three days, contact your pediatrician .
Things You'll Need
- Humidifier
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