Decongestants for babies
These are designed to help babies with blocked up noses breathe
more easily. Because babies have narrow nasal air passages, a blocked up nose at the end
of a cold, which an adult would barely notice, may make babies very distressed. A blocked
nose can also make feeding more difficult.
For babies aged over three months, a few drops of decongestant oil sprinkled on to a
handkerchief and tied near the baby but out of reach (direct skin or mouth contact is not
recommended) over night may relieve nasal or even chesty congestion.
Oily chest rubs are also available over the counter but check the instructions very
carefully. Some chest rubs are not suitable for babies under one year. They usually
contain menthol and eucalyptus oil.
Electric vaporisers can be bought from most chemists. These release a decongesting,
soothing vapour into your baby’s room. Most are suitable for use for babies over three
months old, but do check the instructions first.
