What should I do if a newborn has nasal congestion from using an air conditioner?
Newborn nasal congestion caused by air conditioning use can be treated with antiallergic medications, nasal sprays, or antiviral drugs, depending on the specific condition.
1. Antiallergic Medications
If nasal congestion is due to allergies triggered by dust and mold in the air conditioner, it is generally recommended to move the newborn to another room, open windows for ventilation, and, under medical guidance, administer antiallergic drugs such as cetirizine hydrochloride or loratadine.
2. Nasal Spray Medications
For newborns experiencing nasal congestion from air conditioning exposure who are unable to take oral medication, nasal spray medications such as physiological saline nasal spray may be used under medical advice to clean nasal secretions and relieve nasal congestion.
3. Antiviral Medications
If nasal congestion results from a cold caused by exposure to cold air conditioning, antiviral medications such as ribavirin or acyclovir may be administered under a doctor's supervision.
When using air conditioning around newborns, it is advisable to set the temperature appropriately—neither too cold nor too warm—to prevent discomfort and support healthy development. If symptoms such as fever or cough occur, prompt medical attention at a hospital is recommended.