Some parents probably own a baby nasal aspirator. As the name suggests, a nasal aspirator is designed to suck mucus from a baby’s nose .
As is known, almost all babies cannot blow their noses themselves when they have a cold or flu.
For this reason, a baby snot aspirator is needed as a precaution in case the baby has a cold or a blocked nose.
However, is it safe to use a baby nasal aspirator? Read the full article below!
History of Baby Snot Suction Devices
Since ancient times, the habit of sucking baby’s snot has been carried out by some parents.
In fact, there are those who suck out the baby’s snot using the parent’s mouth.
This method is considered practical and fast for removing mucus or snot that is blocking the baby’s nose.
As time goes by, some parents have used baby snot aspirators.
Generally, this tool is shaped like a balloon with a pipette made of silicone.
The soft and flexible silicone material can adjust the baby’s nostrils, so it doesn’t hurt the mucus area or the wall of your little one’s nose.
Safety of Baby Snot Suckers
A study published in the journal Minerva Pediatrica in 2007 reported that no serious incidents were reported to the Italian Ministry of Health related to the use of infant nasal aspirators.
However, there were 40 cases of mild side effects associated with the use of the device.
Among them, 6 babies were reported to have nosebleeds, 30 babies cried for a long time, 2 babies experienced mild irritation/fussiness, and 2 other babies experienced vomiting.
The conclusion of the research results stated that parents were satisfied with the use of a baby snot aspirator to make it easier to remove mucus from the baby’s nose.
In this case, the baby’s nasal congestion is caused by an upper respiratory tract infection ( URTI ).
Although considered safe, the use of baby snot aspirators is known to cause irritation to the noses of young babies.
Quoted from the Rompers page, sucking a dry or too strong nose can irritate or injure the delicate skin inside the nose.
Excessive sucking can also sometimes cause further swelling and irritation, even making the baby appear more congested.
Try not to suck more than a few times a day.
Additionally, be careful when using the nasal aspirator. Don’t force a fussy or aggressive baby to suction their nose.
This is because it can cause nosebleeds and swelling of the mucous membranes (inner nose) in babies.
How to Use a Baby Snot Sucker Correctly
According to Nationwidechildrens.org , here are several ways to use a baby’s nasal aspirator correctly, as follows:
1. Sterilize the Baby Snot Suction Tool
Before use, it is better to clean the baby’s snot aspirator until it is sterile.
Dip the aspirator or pipette into a bowl or sink filled with hot water and antibacterial soap, then squeeze out the air and let it suck out the water.
Squeeze the balloon until all the water is out, and let it dry.
2. Place the baby in the right position
Rashmi Jain, MD, pediatrician and founder of Babies MD, Pediatric Urgent Care, recommends laying babies on their backs (sleeping on their backs) and keeping them in a safe position.
Another way is to ask your partner to hold the baby’s arms, chest, and forehead.
Alternatively, another person can hold the baby upright on their lap facing the sucking parent and wrap their hands around the baby’s arms and chest while holding the forehead steady.
“Keeping the baby securely in one position will prevent the child or parent from accidentally getting hurt,” explains Dr. Jain.
3. Use Saline Nasal Drops
Before sucking your baby’s nose, make sure to put a few drops of saline in your baby’s nose.
According to sources, saline solution helps loosen thick, dry mucus and can shrink inflamed nasal passages.
Wait a few seconds for the salt to enter the baby’s nasal passages. Then, remove the mucus using the suction device.
4. Place the Snot Aspirator Correctly
Place the tip of the aspirator at the entrance to the nose.
There is no need to insert it into the nostrils, just create a seal at the opening of the baby’s nostrils so that when you suck, the vacuum will pull the mucus out.
Make sure to squeeze the balloon on the aspirator before inserting it into the baby’s nose.
Then, release the pressure to pull the mucus out. Don’t pull it backwards!
Because, if the method is reversed, the baby will choke and the mucus will be pushed into the nose or throat.
5. Don’t Overdo It
Try not to overuse this tool as it can cause swelling in the nose.
Some children’s hospitals also recommend limiting nasal suctioning to four times a day in general.
6. Monitor Symptoms
If you are concerned that your child is having difficulty breathing or eating.
In fact, if your baby does not improve after nasal suctioning, please talk to your pediatrician or seek medical care.
7. Clean the Baby Snot Suction Tool Again
Once you’re done sucking your nose, it’s time to clean it.
Be sure to remove the hygiene filter and wash the large nasal tube with hot water.
Additionally, clean the thin suction tube by adding a few drops of rubbing alcohol or antibacterial soap to one end so it can be used to sterilize the device.
Once all parts have been dried by hand or air, reassemble the aspirator with a new hygienic filter so it is ready for next use.
Other Ways to Remove Baby’s Snot
According to WebMD , there are several techniques for removing mucus that are generally considered safe for babies and children.
These steps will help to safely clear your baby’s nose and relieve the discomfort that accompanies a stuffy nose.
- Use a humidifier . A humidifier can increase humidity levels in your home to limit or break up mucus. This will make your home more comfortable for both adults and babies. While humidifiers marketed for babies and children aren’t necessary, it’s a good idea to choose one that doesn’t need to be refilled or adjusted in the middle of the night.
- Inhale hot water/steam . The hot steam produced can relieve nasal congestion and automatically make it easier for mucus or snot to be expelled.
- Sunbathing in the morning . This can also help clear a baby’s nose. This method is considered the cheapest and has been used since ancient times. Before sunbathing , make sure your baby wears sunscreen , sunglasses, or a hat to protect their skin. Just spend 10-20 minutes in the morning sun.
- Increase fluids, such as breast milk, formula, or water . These fluids help remove mucus from the baby’s body through stool. As is known, babies expel mucus through sneezing, vomiting, or bowel movements. Therefore, parents don’t need to worry if their baby vomits or has a bowel movement during a cold.
- Use saline nasal sprays instead of decongestants . However, never give cold products such as decongestants or antihistamines to infants. These can cause life-threatening complications in children under 4 years of age. Due to concerns about potential overdose, manufacturers have voluntarily stopped producing and selling over-the-counter cough and cold products intended for children under 2 years of age. Before using nasal sprays, it’s best for parents to consult a doctor or specialist.
So, that’s some information about the safety of using a baby aspirator and other ways to remove mucus from babies. Pay close attention to these tips, parents !
Hopefully this article is useful.
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Republished with permission from theAsianParent Indonesia
