What medications are used for nasal congestion in children?
Aug 11, 2021
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ma Yan
Introduction
In general, oral administration of Rhinitis-Relieving Granules or Rhinitis-Calming Granules—or Tongqiao Rhinitis Tablets—may be used for treatment. Concurrently, intranasal application of fluticasone propionate nasal spray (e.g., Flixonase) or oxymetazoline nasal spray (e.g., Dafulin) may help alleviate nasal congestion. Additionally, regular physical exercise is recommended to enhance immunity and resistance, as well as to restore the contractile and dilatory functions of the nasal turbinate mucosa.
Nasal congestion in children is a very common condition. Numerous factors can cause it, including rhinitis and the common cold. Prolonged nasal congestion may adversely affect a child’s physical development; for instance, children with nasal obstruction often breathe through their mouths while sleeping, which can impair facial development. So, what medications are appropriate for treating nasal congestion in children? Below, we address this question.
What Medications Are Used for Nasal Congestion in Children?
In most cases, nasal congestion in children results from an acute exacerbation of chronic rhinitis—commonly chronic simple rhinitis, which develops when acute rhinitis fails to resolve completely. Symptoms typically include bilateral, alternating nasal obstruction: milder during daytime physical activity but worsening at night during rest. Additionally, mucoid nasal discharge may be present, and clinical examination often reveals marked congestion and edema of the inferior turbinates bilaterally. Treatment generally begins with oral administration of medications such as Biyan Kang Granules, Biyan Ning Granules, or Tongqiao Biyan Tablets. Concurrently, topical intranasal therapy with fluticasone propionate nasal spray (e.g., Flixonase®) or oxymetazoline nasal spray (e.g., Dafunlin®) may be used to alleviate nasal congestion. Furthermore, regular physical exercise is recommended to enhance immune function and resistance, thereby restoring normal vasoconstrictive and vasodilatory functions of the turbinate mucosa.
Additional Tips: Simple Home Remedies for Nasal Congestion and Rhinorrhea
1. Saline Nasal Irrigation
When experiencing nasal congestion and rhinorrhea, prepare a mild saline solution to gently rinse the nasal passages. This method can effectively relieve both symptoms; consistent use over several days significantly reduces cold-related rhinorrhea. Alternatively, facial steam inhalation may also help alleviate these symptoms. In addition, ensure adequate rest, increased fluid intake, and proper warmth preservation.
2. Foot Soaking Therapy
Nasal congestion and rhinorrhea may stem from exposure to cold; thus, warming the body helps alleviate these symptoms. Before bedtime, soak feet in warm water—or add sliced ginger to the water for enhanced warming effects. This not only relieves fatigue and improves rhinorrhea but also promotes better sleep.
3. Massage Therapy
Adopt a lateral decubitus position: if the left nostril is blocked, lie on the right side, and vice versa. Use the fingertips to gently massage the Yingxiang acupoints (located on either side of the nostrils) for 1–2 minutes; this can effectively relieve cold-induced rhinorrhea. Additionally, soak a towel in hot water and apply it as a warm compress over both ears for one minute—this helps eliminate pathogens and offers some therapeutic benefit for cold-related rhinorrhea.
The above outlines commonly used medications and supportive therapies for pediatric nasal congestion. We hope this information proves helpful to you.
