The child has a constant runny nose: causes and treatment. Vasomotor persistent coryza. What to do when a child has a runny nose

Runny nose (in medical literaturerhinitis ) is one of the most common diseases of the upper respiratory tract. The cause of the common cold is inflammation of the nasal mucosa ( from the Greek word rhinos - nose + itis - the designation of inflammation).

Runny nose is rarely an independent pathology. It is usually a symptom of a viral or bacterial infection. At first glance, this is a very harmless disease, which is not entirely true. A runny nose has many consequences for the body, including chronic rhinitis, sinusitis, and otitis media ( inflammation of the middle ear). In turn, these complications are dangerous because they occur most often in children of the first year of life. The reason for this is the features anatomical structure nasal passages and auditory tube.

Anatomy and function of the nasal cavity

The nasal cavity performs important functions for the body. It purifies and warms the inhaled air, and also has a protective function. That is why children who often suffer from a runny nose, as a rule, make up the group of “frequently ill children”. Immunity child's body begins to decline with frequent rhinitis, and viruses and bacteria that penetrate into nasal cavity then descend into the lower respiratory tract. This, in turn, causes the rapid addition of a bacterial infection with a long-term persistent ( chronic) runny nose.

Anatomy of the nasal cavity

The nasal cavity is a kind of "entrance gate" of the respiratory tract, through which the inhaled and exhaled air passes. Despite the fact that the right and left nasal passages look like isolated structures, they communicate with each other. That is why a runny nose always proceeds with the involvement of both nasal cavities. In turn, the nasal cavity communicates with the cavity of the oropharynx, larynx and bronchi. This causes a rapid transition of infection from the nasal mucosa to the lower respiratory tract.

The nasal mucosa consists of a special ciliated ( or ciliated) epithelium. It is called so because it consists of numerous cilia densely located on the mucosa. Moreover, there are microvilli on the apical surface of the cilia themselves. They, in turn, branch and elongate, increasing the area of ​​the mucosa several times. So, on average, ciliated cells have 200 - 300 cilia, the length of which is 7 microns. Moving, microvilli promote the movement of mucus from the nasal cavity into the oropharynx, and out of the bronchi. Thus, they perform the function of drainage respiratory system. It should be noted that the volume of nasal mucus per day can vary from 200 milliliters to one liter. Together with mucus, dust particles, allergens and pathogenic microorganisms come out of the respiratory tract. The functionality of the mucous membrane is most optimal at a temperature of 28 - 33 degrees and a pH of 5.5 - 6.5. The slightest deviation from these parameters leads to a change in its composition. So, loss of moisture, temperature drop to 7 - 10 degrees, increase in pH over 6.5 and other fluctuations cause the cilia to stop fluctuating. At the same time, the composition of the mucosa changes, and the level of its protection decreases.

The mucous membrane of the nose is abundantly supplied with nerve endings that are associated with various organs and systems. That is why the child's body reacts negatively to even the most minor violations. physiological functions nose. Even with the slightest runny nose, children become capricious, irritable, and begin to sleep poorly. The main factor contributing to the development of a runny nose is hypothermia. A decrease in temperature leads to a violation of the protective mechanisms of the body and the activation of opportunistic microflora in the nasal cavity, nasopharynx and oral cavity. The development of the common cold is also facilitated by a decrease in the body's resistance due to chronic diseases.

Functions of the nasal cavity

As mentioned above, the nasal cavity is the entrance gate of the body. It carries out a number important functions. So, the main functions of the nose are respiratory, olfactory, protective and resonator ( speech). Even a short runny nose in a child leads to a violation of these functions. A long-term persistent runny nose can lead to serious changes in the body. If a runny nose in a child lasts for several months, then it can lead to a change in the process of formation of the facial skeleton and chest. The main complication of the common cold is a violation of oxygen metabolism, which affects the work of the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Thus, with a runny nose, the physical and mental development of the child suffers.

The main functions of the nasal cavity are:

  • filtration of inhaled air;
  • protective function;
  • function of warming the inhaled air.
Filtration of inhaled air
The air passing through the nasal cavity is subject to filtration. The filtering function is carried out by the ciliated epithelium of the mucosa. Numerous mucosal villi moving into different directions, clean the air from dust particles and other foreign objects. That is why it is important to always breathe through the nose. If the nose is stuffed up and the child begins to breathe through the mouth, the air is not cleaned and enters the body contaminated.

Protective function
The work of the cilia of the epithelium is also aimed at eliminating ( breeding) from the respiratory tract of foreign objects. It can be poplar fluff, wool particles and other objects. Getting into the nasal passages, they irritate the receptors embedded in the mucous membrane. Irritation of the receptors leads to muscle contraction, as a result of which an unconditioned protective reflex is realized - sneezing. Thanks to sneezing, all pathological elements are removed from the upper respiratory tract.

Inhalation air warming function
The nasal cavity also warms the inhaled air, which plays especially important role during the cold seasons. This feature of the nose prevents the lower airways from becoming cold. Once in the nasal cavity, the air passes into the nasopharynx, and from it into the larynx and bronchi. Passing all this way, the air warms up and at the moment when it reaches the lungs, it does not lead to hypothermia of the mucosa.

Causes of a runny nose in children

There are a wide variety of reasons for the development of a runny nose in children. It can be various infections, allergies, injuries, and so on. Initially, all causes of the common cold are usually divided into two large groups - infectious and non-infectious.

Infectious causes of the common cold in children

As for children of the first and second year of life, their infectious cause of the common cold is the most common.

The causes of a runny nose of an infectious nature include:
  • acute respiratory diseases ( ORZ);
  • viral infections - adenoviruses, rhinoviruses, coronaviruses;
  • Infectious mononucleosis ;
  • bacteria;
As a rule, a runny nose in children is caused by viruses that provoke an acute respiratory viral infection ( SARS). The transmission of the virus is known to be airborne. Saliva particles containing viruses enter the external environment when the patient sneezes or coughs. After that, the viruses enter the nasal mucosa of an already healthy person. Being in the nasal cavity, they very quickly penetrate into the epithelial cells ( mucosal cells) and begin to multiply actively there. In the nasal mucosa, viruses are present for 1 to 3 days. During this time, they violate the integrity of the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract. It becomes thinner and more permeable to pathogens. The ciliated epithelium ceases to perform its functions. Thus, conditions are created for the addition of a bacterial infection. This is one of the reasons why a viral infection is very quickly complicated by a bacterial one.

Further, viruses or bacteria can migrate from the upper respiratory tract ( i.e. nasal cavity) into the lower respiratory tract. With a runny nose, the mucous membrane of the paranasal sinuses and middle ear can also be affected. This explains the fact that the common cold is most often accompanied by inflammation of the paranasal sinuses ( sinusitis, frontal sinusitis) and middle ear ( otitis media).

As a rule, a runny nose in children is recorded during a period of sharp temperature fluctuations. This is due, first of all, to a change in the virulent properties ( contagious ability) microbes, as well as with the hypothermia factor. A pronounced inflammatory reaction in the mucous membrane of the nasal cavity is observed when the feet are cooled. This is due to the presence of reflex connections between the feet and the nose.

Non-infectious causes of the common cold in children

Non-infectious causes of a runny nose can be foreign bodies that have fallen into the nasal cavity, mucosal injuries, exposure harmful factors environment. A special variant of non-infectious rhinitis in children is allergic rhinitis or rhinitis.

To non-infectious causes runny nose in children include:

  • environmental factors - dust, smoke, strongly smelling substances;
  • allergenic factors - fluff, wool;
  • trauma;
  • foreign bodies.

Allergic rhinitis in children

Allergic rhinitis is an inflammatory process of the nasal mucosa, which is based on a pathological allergic reaction. According to the latest statistics, the prevalence of allergic rhinitis in children reaches 40 percent. The onset of the disease occurs at the age of 9-10 years. However, in some cases, it can be diagnosed in the first 6 years of life. In children with constitutional anomalies ( diathesis) runny nose symptoms are observed already during the first year of life.
The clinical picture of an allergic rhinitis is the same as that of an infectious one, but at the same time, symptoms such as sneezing and itching join.

Symptoms of allergic rhinitis in children are:

  • nasal congestion;
  • rhinorrhea ( discharge of liquid contents from the nasal cavity);
  • sneezing
  • itching in the nasal cavity.
Allergic rhinitis in rare cases is limited to the nasal mucosa. Often the inflammatory process extends to the paranasal sinuses. Therefore, doctors often use the term "rhinosinusitis" because it more fully reflects the pathogenetic process. Despite the fact that allergic rhinitis seems to be quite harmless disease, it significantly affects the quality of life of the child. In children who suffer from a runny nose for a long time, school performance decreases, sleep is disturbed.

Given the time period of contact with the allergen, doctors distinguish between seasonal, year-round and occupational allergic rhinitis. The first two are typical for both children and adults, the last one is only for adults. The main cause of allergic rhinitis is plant pollen, which is a powerful allergen. Significant allergens include pollen from trees, grasses and weeds. Based on this, there are three main peaks of exacerbation of seasonal allergic rhinitis.

The periods of the year, which account for the peak incidence of allergic rhinitis, include:

  • April May- due to pollination of trees such as birch, alder, hazel;
  • June July- associated with the pollination of such cereal grasses as timothy and fescue;
  • Aug. Sept- due to pollination of such weeds as wormwood, quinoa and plantain.
Other causes of allergic rhinitis can be food and mold allergens. AT this case exacerbation of the disease is associated with eating certain products. House dust mites, animal epidermis, and wool can act as non-food allergens.

Stages of development of the common cold

On average, a runny nose lasts 7 to 10 days. If we are talking about an allergic rhinitis, then its duration is due to the period of exposure to the allergen. There are three stages in the development of infectious rhinitis.

The stages of development of the common cold are:

  • reflex stage;
  • catarrhal stage;
  • the stage of recovery or accession of infection.
Reflex stage of development of the common cold
This is the first stage in the development of a runny nose and it lasts only a few hours. Due to reflex vasoconstriction, the mucous membrane becomes pale. The epithelium stops producing mucus, which provokes symptoms such as dryness, burning in the nasal cavity, and repeated sneezing. Headache, lethargy and sore throat are also present. It should be noted that with a runny nose, both nasal passages are affected at once, so the above symptoms are felt in both nasal passages.

Catarrhal stage of development of the common cold
The second stage of the development of the common cold lasts from 2 to 3 days. During this stage, vasodilation occurs, which provokes swelling of the turbinates. Children complain of a feeling of nasal congestion, difficulty in nasal breathing. If the cause of a runny nose is a viral infection, then abundant clear watery discharge from the nose is noted ( rhinorrhea). There are also symptoms such as decreased sense of smell, lacrimation, stuffy ears and a nasal tone of voice. Also, this stage is accompanied by an increase in body temperature to subfebrile numbers ( 37.2 - 37.5 degrees). The mucous membrane of the nose at this stage becomes bright red and swells greatly, making it difficult to breathe. This, in turn, leads to the disappearance of the sense of smell and the deterioration of the perception of taste ( This is explained by the fact that olfactory receptors are laid in the nasal mucosa.). Sometimes lacrimation, congestion and tinnitus also join.

Stage of recovery or accession of infection
The third stage of the development of the common cold can go in 2 ways - recovery or the addition of bacterial inflammation. In the first case, the general condition improves, the function of the epithelium is restored. Nasal breathing begins to become freer, mucus secretion normalizes, and the sense of smell is restored. In the case of a secondary bacterial infection, the general condition of the child also initially improves. However, nasal discharge becomes greenish color and become thicker. Further development of the disease depends on how much the infection has descended. If pathogenic microorganisms have reached the bronchi, then the likelihood of developing bronchitis is high.

The duration of the common cold in children
On average, a runny nose of an infectious nature lasts from 7 to 10 days. At good immunity and quickly started treatment, recovery can occur as early as 2-3 days. With weakened body defenses and inadequate treatment, a runny nose drags on for up to 3-4 weeks. In this case, it can also become chronic or lead to the development of complications.

Symptoms of a runny nose in a child

As already mentioned, a runny nose is rarely independent disease. As a rule, it is a symptom of various infectious diseases. In young children, a runny nose can be a symptom of intestinal infections. It should be noted that a runny nose is one of the first symptoms of the disease ( kind of a harbinger).

The classic symptoms of a runny nose are nasal congestion, discharge, and sneezing. Depending on the nature of the underlying disease, one or another symptom can be expressed as much as possible. For example, with a viral infection, a runny nose is characterized by profuse discharge from the nose, and with allergies, persistent itching and sneezing. The development of a runny nose, as a rule, is sharp and sudden - it begins quickly with a general deterioration in the child's condition. In children, body temperature rises, a headache appears, nasal breathing worsens, and the sense of smell decreases.

Since young children cannot express their complaints, they mostly cry. The smaller the child, the more restless he becomes. In infants, it is not the manifestations of the common cold that come first, but signs of general intoxication.

Further, a liquid discharge from the nasal cavity appears very quickly. The production of mucous contents occurs due to the enhancement of the function of the goblet glands, which are embedded in the epithelium. Pathological nasal secretion irritant effect on the skin. This is especially noticeable in the area of ​​​​the vestibule of the nose and upper lip, which manifests itself in the form of redness and painful cracks.

Symptoms of a runny nose in children are:

  • feeling of nasal congestion;
  • rhinorrhea;
  • sneezing
  • lacrimation.
The feeling of nasal congestion is the result of swelling of the mucous membrane, which, in turn, develops due to increased vascular permeability. The fluid from the vessels is transuded ( coming out) into the mucous membrane, leading to its swelling. Edema of the mucous membrane of the nasal cavity also leads to impaired drainage of the paranasal sinuses and middle ear, which creates fertile ground for the activation of conditionally pathogenic flora. As soon as the nature of the mucus from the nasal cavity changes, namely, it becomes cloudy and greenish, this means the addition of a bacterial infection.

Lachrymation is a very characteristic symptom of the common cold. It is caused by irritation of the reflexogenic zones of the nasal mucosa. Lachrymation is almost always accompanied by sneezing, the nature of which is similar. Sneezing is the result of irritation of sensory fibers that are located in the mucous membrane.

Total duration this disease varies from 8 to 14 days. If the general and local immunity of the child is not violated, then the runny nose stops after a couple of days. In weakened, often ill, runny nose most often has a protracted character - up to 3 - 4 weeks. In general, the child's condition depends on the underlying disease and the form of rhinitis.

Forms of rhinitis ( runny nose) are:

  • acute rhinitis;
  • chronic rhinitis;
  • atrophic rhinitis;
  • vasomotor rhinitis.
Acute rhinitis
Acute rhinitis in children usually occurs in the form of nasopharyngitis, that is, with involvement in the inflammatory process of the mucous membrane of the larynx. Also, inflammation can spread to the nasopharynx ( with the development of adenoiditis), middle ear or larynx. Due to the rapidly growing edema in infants the act of sucking is disturbed, which leads to weight loss, sleep disturbance, increased excitability. Especially severe acute rhinitis occurs in premature, debilitated children with chronic foci of infection.

Chronic rhinitis
This type of runny nose is characterized by a violation of nasal breathing with alternate congestion in one or the other half of the nose. In chronic rhinitis, the nature of the discharge from the nose can be serous, mucous or purulent. Chronic hypertrophic rhinitis is characterized by a long course. Nasal congestion is characterized by a more permanent character, and most importantly, that this symptom does not go away after the use of vasoconstrictor drops. In addition to difficult nasal breathing, sick children are worried about headaches and poor sleep. The nasal mucosa is usually pale pink, reddish or bluish in color.

Atrophic rhinitis
In chronic atrophic rhinitis, the main symptom is a feeling of dryness in the nose. Also, patients complain of the formation of crusts, a feeling of pressure in the nasal cavity and headaches. The contents of the nose are always of a thick consistency and yellow-greenish hue. Typically, the volume pathological mucus with atrophic rhinitis small. However, if pus is present in large quantities, then this can lead to the spread chronic process on the mucous membrane of the pharynx and larynx.

Vasomotor rhinitis


This form of rhinitis is characterized by such manifestations as sneezing, nasal congestion, copious liquid discharge. At the core of development vasomotor rhinitis lie neurovegetative disorders that cause a sharp spasm of the vessels of the nose.

Cough and runny nose in a child

Cough and runny nose are frequent symptoms manifestations of a viral infection. This is explained by the fact that the nasal mucosa is a gateway for viruses. It is in the nasal mucosa that viruses form their primary focus of inflammation. Most often, the mucosa is attacked by a rhinovirus infection. Already from the first hours of the disease, nasal congestion and sneezing are noted. Rhinovirus infection, unlike other viral infections, is manifested by profuse rhinorrhea. Simultaneously with the rise in temperature to 38 degrees, there are copious discharge from the nose. Discharge from the nose is initially mucous in nature. At the same time, the mucus is very rare and literally “flows”. However, after a couple of days it becomes thicker and takes on a greenish tint. This means that the bacterial flora has joined the rhinovirus infection.

The appearance in the clinical picture of such a symptom as a cough depends on how far the infection has penetrated. If the body's defenses are weakened, and the child young age, then the risk of developing bronchitis or pneumonia is very high. Premature and weakened children in 9 cases out of 10 develop pneumonia and bronchiolitis. The nature of the cough depends on the level of infection. If the inflammatory process is localized at the level of the nasopharynx, larynx or trachea, then the cough is mostly dry. The reason for this is dry and inflamed mucous membrane, which irritates nerve endings and provokes coughing. If the infection goes down and affects the bronchopulmonary department, then the cough becomes productive, that is, wet. The amount of secretion depends on how well the bronchi drain and how much fluid the child consumes. As a rule, the cough is initially accompanied by scanty and viscous sputum. Subsequently, when taking bronchodilators, sputum liquefies, and its volume increases. The color and specific smell of sputum also depends on the source of infection. With pyogenic flora, sputum has fetid odor and is greenish in color.

Temperature and runny nose in a child

The presence or absence of fever with a runny nose in a child depends on the underlying disease. As you know, a runny nose in children is more often a symptom of a viral or bacterial infection than an independent pathology.

Temperature options depending on the etiology of the common cold

Type of infection

Main symptoms

Temperature characteristic

Runny nose with rhinovirus infection

Profuse coryza, accompanied by sneezing, congestion. The mucous discharge from the nose is always profuse.

The temperature varies within the normal range, sometimes reaching 37.5 degrees.

Runny nose with adenovirus infection

Coryza with moderate mucous discharge and nasal congestion.

The temperature varies from 38 to 39 degrees.

Runny nose with rotavirus infection

Runny nose and others respiratory symptoms, combined with manifestations of gastroenteritis - vomiting, diarrhea.

The temperature rose sharply to 39 degrees.

Runny nose with respiratory syncytial infection

Runny nose, quickly complicated by the development of bronchiolitis and pneumonia.

Moderate subfebrile temperature is noted ( 37 - 37.2 degrees), rarely the temperature rises to 38 degrees.

Runny nose without fever in a child

A runny nose without fever is noted with an allergic etiology of the disease, as well as in cases of immunodeficiency in children. In general, it should be noted that the presence of fever is more dependent on the reactivity of the child's body. For weakened children with chronic foci of infection, a moderate sluggish temperature is characteristic.

Runny nose in infants

Newborns and infants have certain anatomical features in the structure of the nasal cavity, which determine the clinical picture of the common cold. So, in young children, the nasal passages are much narrower than in adults. Therefore, even a slight swelling of the mucous membrane leads to a complete disruption of nasal breathing through the nose. This, in turn, causes certain difficulties in feeding. Since the baby cannot breathe through his nose, he is forced to breathe through his mouth, which makes feeding difficult. Children become restless, sleep badly, start crying. Due to malnutrition, the baby can lose weight. Great danger are attacks of suffocation and shortness of breath that can occur during sleep in such children. Moreover, mouth breathing causes the spread of infection to the underlying parts of the respiratory tract.

Very rarely, a runny nose can occur in isolation. As a rule, in infants, it occurs in the form of nasopharyngitis. At the same time, both the nasal cavity and the pharyngeal cavity are involved in the pathological process. This feature of the clinical picture is due to the inability of the child to independently clear the nasal cavity of mucus ( i.e. spit out). This leads to the fact that the pathological contents flow down the back of the pharynx, causing its irritation and inflammation. Thus, the pharynx is also involved in the inflammatory process, as a result, not rhinitis develops, but nasopharyngitis. Moreover, the inflammatory process in infants more often than in adults extends to the larynx, trachea, and bronchi. The consequence of this is frequent development tracheitis, bronchitis and even pneumonia.

Another feature of the children's cold is fast development complication such as otitis inflammation of the middle ear). The reason for this is also the anatomical features of the structure of the ear cavity. So, the auditory tube in children is much wider and shorter than in adults, which leads to the rapid penetration of infection from the nose into the ear. At the same time, the constant horizontal position of children and the lack of coughing skills lead to the flow of mucus from the nasal passages into the short auditory tube and from there to the middle ear. Thus, a runny nose is quickly complicated by an inflammatory process in the middle ear, which is very difficult in young children. The development of such a complication as otitis media is accompanied by dramatic changes in the behavior of the child. Due to the appearance of severe pain, the intensity of which is rapidly increasing, the child is deprived of rest. He starts crying, screaming, shaking his head. Such a rapid change in the behavior of the child should alert parents even before the appearance of pus from the ear cavity. The last symptom indicates the presence of a ruptured eardrum.

Complications of the common cold in children

First of all, a runny nose is fraught with a transition to a chronic form. This complication occurs as a result of frequent and prolonged rhinitis ( runny nose), nose injuries, long acting on the nasal mucosa annoying factors, with concomitant anomalies in the development of the nasal cavity ( deviated nasal septum). Chronic runny nose is manifested by a violation of nasal breathing and periodic exacerbations.

The consequences of a runny nose in children are:

  • rapid fatigue;
  • sleep disturbance;
  • memory loss;
  • development chronic rhinitis and sinusitis;
  • stop in the physical development of the child;
  • deformation of the facial skeleton and chest bones;
  • violation of metabolic processes;
  • disruption of the respiratory and cardiovascular systems;
  • development of allergic reactions.

Treatment of the common cold in children

When treating a runny nose, it is always necessary to remember that it is only a symptom of a disease. Therefore, in addition to the use of sprays and drops, which are often used to eliminate the common cold, it is necessary to eliminate the cause of the underlying disease. Usually, coryza does not require intensive treatment. It is important to follow the basic principles of the treatment of the common cold.

The principles of treatment of the common cold are as follows:
  • The room in which the child is located must be well ventilated.
  • Humidity in the room should not be less than 50 - 60 percent.
  • If a runny nose is accompanied by a temperature, then the child needs to provide an adequate water regime - often, but little by little, give boiled water at room temperature.
  • During a cold, it is not recommended to force-feed a child.
  • It is necessary to regularly remove the accumulated mucus from the nasal passages.
  • To relieve symptoms ( but not to eliminate the very causes of a runny nose) you can use vasoconstrictor drugs, which, in turn, are selected based on age.
  • It's important to know that maximum time the use of any vasoconstrictor should not exceed 5 to 7 days.
If a runny nose is complicated by the addition of a bacterial infection, then the doctor also prescribes antibacterial agents. It is recommended to bury the nose with slightly warmed drops. To do this, the vial of medicine is lowered into a container of warm water for several minutes. For instillation, it is necessary to throw back the head, then enter 2-3 drops into each nasal passage. After the first nasal passage has been instilled, it is necessary to tilt the head down, but at the same time press the nostril against the nasal septum. Then do the same with the other nasal passage. This manipulation will prevent the drops from being swallowed, as is often the case.

Drops and sprays from the common cold in children

To date, there is a large selection of various drops and sprays from the common cold, including for children under one year old. When using drops, it is important to remember that drops have only a symptomatic effect. This means that they eliminate the feeling of congestion and rhinorrhea, but do not eliminate the very cause of the common cold.

Drops and sprays used in the treatment of the common cold in children

Name

effects

How to apply?

Brizolin(drops)

Renders vasoconstrictor action thereby eliminating swelling.

2-3 drops in each nasal passage three times a day for 5 days.

Vibrocil(drops, spray)

It has anti-edematous and anti-allergic effect.

Otrivin baby(drops, spray)

Has a vasoconstrictor effect. Also, thanks to the menthol included in the composition, the drops have a cooling effect and give a feeling of freshness.

aqua maris(spray, drops)

Effectively cleanses the nasal cavity from accumulated mucus by thinning it. In addition, it moisturizes the nasal mucosa, facilitating nasal breathing.

Aqualor baby(spray)

Washes the nasal passages from accumulated mucus, as well as bacteria and viruses that have settled on the mucous membrane.

Nazol baby(drops)

It has a pronounced decongestant effect, eliminating the feeling of nasal congestion.


In the treatment of chronic rhinitis in children, the main provision is to increase the body's defenses, that is, immunocorrection. For this purpose, various immunomodulators are prescribed, for example, imunofan or immunal. Also recommended breathing exercises, massage of bioactive points, sanatorium treatment.

Inhalation with a cold in children

Inhalation is a therapeutic procedure during which the child inhales the medicine. Inhalation therapy ensures the delivery of the drug directly to the organs of the respiratory system, which are primarily affected by the common cold. Therefore, inhalations are effective method treatment, and with timely and proper conduct, allow the child to recover without the use of systemic antibiotics.

Inhalation procedures are carried out using nebulizers or steam inhalers. Various household appliances such as pots or kettles can also be used. Regardless of the method of inhalation in the treatment of rhinitis, inhalation is carried out through the nose, and exhalation through the mouth. The choice of the drug, the duration of the session, contraindications and other points of the procedure depend on which device is used in inhalation therapy.

Nebulizers
A nebulizer is a device in which the medicine breaks into small drops and turns into a mist, inhaled by the child's nose through a special tube. The temperature of the drug does not increase, since its transformation occurs under the influence of ultrasound, a membrane or a compressor. It is possible to carry out inhalation with the help of such equipment at all stages of the common cold and at any age of the child.

The rules for using a nebulizer for children's rhinitis are as follows:

  • inhalation procedures with a nebulizer are carried out 2-4 times a day;
  • it is necessary to continue the session for 5 - 8 minutes;
  • before inhalation, the child should rinse the nasal and oral cavity;
  • after the procedure, you should refrain from eating and drinking for 1-2 hours;
  • the medicine is poured into a special chamber using a pipette or syringe ( most often come with the device);
  • solutions used for inhalation should be at room temperature;
  • before and after the session, parts that come into contact with the medicine or the nasal cavity of the child should be disinfected.
Solutions for inhalation with a nebulizer
Due to the design features of such a device, not all types of funds traditionally used for a cold can be used in it. So, herbal decoctions, essential oils and any suspensions, even with the smallest particles, cannot be used in a nebulizer. Nebulizers that use ultrasound to turn the medicine into a mist do not use antibiotics. Inhalation with antibiotics can only be carried out with compressor or membrane nebulizers.

Drugs that are used for nebulizer therapy for children's rhinitis are:

  • antiseptics ( miramistin, furatsilin);
  • restorative ( tonsilgon, rotokan);
  • anti-inflammatory ( budesonide);
  • antibiotics ( dioxidine, gentamicin).
Also, to soften and moisturize the tissues, children with a runny nose are inhaled with mineral water ( Narzan, Essentuki), saline solution.

Steam inhalers
A steam inhaler is a device in which medication is heated and converted into vapor through a tube. Since such inhalations involve exposure to high temperatures on the mucous membrane, these procedures have a sufficient number of contraindications.
Steam inhalations are excluded at temperatures above 37 degrees, because hot steam will worsen the child's condition. Steam inhalations are not carried out for heart disease, bronchial asthma and a tendency to spasms in the bronchi. The age of the child from which the steam inhaler is allowed is 6 years.

Rules for holding steam inhalation the following:

  • one hour before and after the procedure, all physical activity should be excluded;
  • after the end of the session, you can not go out into the open air for 2-3 hours;
  • you can eat and drink after 1 - 2 hours;
  • session duration varies from 10 to 15 minutes;
  • the number of procedures per day - from 3 to 6;
  • steam temperature ( installed on the device) - from 50 to 60 degrees.
Means for steam inhalation
Steam inhalers do not use pharmacological preparations, as when heated, they significantly lose their healing properties. The best option for such procedures are various herbal infusions.

Plants from which solutions for steam inhalation are prepared are:

  • plantain;
Household appliances for inhalation
Inhalations using household utensils are the most simple method because they do not require special tools and equipment. In order to carry out such a procedure, in any convenient container ( deep bowl, saucepan) is poured hot herbal decoction. The child needs to tilt his head over the dishes and inhale the hot steam. The inability to regulate the temperature increases the likelihood that the steam will burn the mucosa. Also, with such procedures, there is a high risk that the container with hot liquid will turn over. Therefore, inhalation using household appliances is not recommended for children under the age of 14 - 16 years.

Treatment of the common cold in children with folk remedies

Alternative methods of treating a runny nose in children can reduce the symptoms of the disease and alleviate the condition of the child. Herbal preparations and natural products help eliminate nasal congestion, get rid of other symptoms and strengthen the children's body. The use of folk remedies significantly improves the patient's condition, but at the same time does not cancel the visit to the doctor.

The methods of treatment that traditional medicine offers for children's rhinitis are:

Washing the nose with a runny nose in children

Nasal lavages are carried out in order to clear the sinuses of mucus and normalize the respiratory process. This procedure, with regular and correct execution allows you to reduce burning and dryness in the nasal cavity, as it moisturizes the mucous membrane. Biologically active substances, present in the composition of some washing agents, stimulate the healing processes of tissues damaged by inflammation. Antibacterial solutions disinfect the mucous membrane, preventing the spread of infection.

How to rinse your nose?
There are 2 ways to wash the nose. The first method is relevant in the initial stages of the common cold, when there are no symptoms of the disease from other organs. To wash, the child needs to draw the solution into the right palm, and pinch one nostril with the fingers of the left hand. Then you should tilt your head down and use your free nostrils to draw in the liquid. After this, the solution must be spit out and the manipulation of the other nostril repeated.

The second way ( deep) rinsing the nose is appropriate for the progression of the common cold. Also, this method can be used to treat the common cold in young children, because its main actions are carried out by adults. The procedure is carried out in several stages.

The stages of deep washing of the nose with a runny nose are as follows:

  • To rinse the nose, the child should lower his head down, and one of the parents should inject the solution into the nasal cavity using a special device. To inject the solution, you can use a medical syringe, a small syringe, or a flush kit ( sold in pharmacies).
  • The solution is administered without strong pressure into the right nostril. At the same time, the child's mouth should be open, and the tongue should stick out forward. An adult should definitely control this moment, otherwise the child may choke on the liquid.
  • The manipulation should be continued until the liquid poured into the nose reaches the oral cavity. After that, the child should spit out the solution and blow his nose.
  • Then you should repeat the manipulation for the left nostril.
Nasal Wash Recommendations
The main rule of washing, which provides therapeutic effect, is the regularity of the procedure. It is necessary to start rinsing the nose immediately after the first symptoms of a runny nose appear. After the onset of signs of improvement, flushing should not be stopped. They need to be carried out until the child is fully recovered. To increase the effectiveness of the procedures, they should be done in accordance with some recommendations.
  • Rinse the nose as mucus accumulates. Be sure to carry out the procedure before bedtime, so that the child falls asleep better.
  • The child should be fed before washing, as this will eliminate food particles that have settled on the mucous membrane of the throat, which can aggravate the inflammatory process. After the session, you should refrain from eating for 1-2 hours.
  • The best effect is given by the alternation of different solutions, since each agent has special action. If it's time to rinse your nose, but there is no ready-made solution, you can rinse the mucous membrane with clean water.
  • Washing water ( both for use in pure form and for the preparation of solutions) it is better to use distilled. In the absence of such, it can be replaced with filtered or boiled water.
  • The temperature of the solution should be approximately 37 degrees. Hotter liquids can cause a burn, and colder ones can reduce local immunity.
  • Do not prepare formulations for washing for future use. Each time it is necessary to use a fresh, freshly prepared solution.
  • The total duration of one procedure should be at least 5 minutes, during which 50 - 100 milliliters of solution should be used.
  • When washing, you can not strain your muscles too much, do jerky movements head or sniff the solution too vigorously with the nose. The pressure of the liquid must be moderate, otherwise it can penetrate into the middle ear or paranasal sinuses.
Wash solutions
Phytopreparations are used for washing ( herbal decoctions), as well as solutions based on salt, soda, honey and other natural products.

For the preparation of decoctions for washing, the most commonly used:

  • Calendula. A solution of calendula has a bactericidal effect, and also reduces inflammation in the tissues of the nose.
  • Sage. Disinfects the mucosa and makes the mucous contents looser, as a result of which it is excreted faster.
  • Coltsfoot. Stimulates local immunity, which contributes to more quick recovery fabrics.
  • St. John's wort. Suppresses activity harmful microorganisms and enhances the barrier function of the nasal mucosa.
  • Chamomile. Stops the inflammatory process, and also reduces pain, as it has an analgesic effect.
  • Oak bark. Due to enveloping and astringent action produces an anesthetic ( anesthetic) Effect.
To prepare a single portion of the broth, a tablespoon of vegetable raw materials ( dry or fresh) pour a glass hot water. After 20 minutes of infusion, the product must be filtered and used for washing.

Products from which you can prepare a solution for washing are:

  • Salt ( cookery or sea). Use 2 teaspoons of salt per 250 milliliters of water. Salt solution removes fluid from the tissues, resulting in reduced swelling.
  • Soda ( food). A teaspoon in a glass of water. Soda solution promotes the formation alkaline environment, which is unfavorable for pathogenic microorganisms.
  • Honey ( natural). The solution is prepared from a teaspoon of honey and a glass of water. Softens the mucous membrane and acts as an antimicrobial agent. When using honey, you should be careful, as this product often provokes allergies.
  • lemon juice ( fresh juice). Due a large number vitamin C increases the resistance of tissues to the action of microbes. A solution is prepared from 2 parts of juice and 3 parts of water.

Instillation of the nose with a cold in children

Instillation of the nose with a runny nose is intended for moisturizing and antibacterial treatment of the mucosa. At the same time, parents should take into account that the tissues of the child's body are characterized by increased vulnerability. Therefore, children under the age of 6 - 7 years should not be instilled into the nose with onion or garlic juice, alcohol tinctures and other means of aggressive action. The best option for this age are products containing oils, as they soften the mucous membrane. The volume of oil should be equal to the volume of the remaining components of the drug. Also, for instillation, small children can be used various oils in its purest form.
Older children can bury the nose with garlic or onion juice, but in a diluted, not pure form. When preparing such products, 1 part of onion or garlic juice is combined with 1 part of oil and aged for steam bath 15 - 20 minutes. Before use, the product should be cooled. Vitamins and valuable elements of such products increase overall immunity, which contributes to a faster recovery. Drinking plenty of water helps prevent dehydration, which is important when high temperature. Also at elevated temperature teas with antipyretic action will help.

Rules drinking regime
In order for drinking to bring maximum benefits, certain rules should be followed when preparing and drinking tea.

The rules for the drinking regimen for a runny nose in a child are as follows:

  • the daily rate of fluid for a child is determined at the rate of 100 milliliters per 1 kilogram of weight;
  • in order not to create a burden on the kidneys, the entire volume of fluid should be evenly distributed throughout the day;
  • the drink should not have a pronounced sour or sweet taste;
  • the temperature of the drink should be 40 - 45 degrees.
Recipes for drinks for a cold in children
Drinks prepared according to traditional medicine recipes can have different action on the body. So, there are teas with antipyretic, expectorant and bactericidal action. In addition to the basic properties, drinks produce a general tonic effect, helping the child recover faster. The rules for preparing a drink depend on the initial components.

Rules for preparing a single portion ( 250 milliliters) of the drink are as follows:

  • To prepare a remedy from medicinal herbs, a teaspoon of raw materials should be poured with water, the temperature of which is not higher than 80 degrees. You need to use tea after 15 - 20 minutes, after it has been infused and cooled.
  • If the drink is prepared from fresh fruits or berries, they must be mashed to a pulp and poured with water not hotter than 50 degrees. A tablespoon of fruit or berry mass is taken in a glass of water.
  • If juice is indicated in the recipe as the main component, it should be mixed with water in a 1: 1 ratio.
Recipes for making drinks to treat a runny nose in children

Main action

Components

Additional effect

Antipyretic

Reduces the inflammatory process, replenishes the deficiency of vitamins.

Increases perspiration, which helps to eliminate toxins.

Orange juice

Thanks to vitamin C, it strengthens the barrier function of the child's body.

It inhibits the activity of many pathogenic microorganisms.

expectorant

Liquorice root

Strengthens the body due to the large amount of ascorbic acid.

Iceland moss

Fights inflammation and strengthens the body, reduces intoxication.

It has a diuretic effect, as a result of which toxins are eliminated faster.

Produces a slight calming effect, has an antiseptic effect.

bactericidal

Plantain

Normalizes appetite and has an analgesic effect.

Stops inflammation, has an anesthetic effect.

Heat compresses for colds in children

Compresses for a runny nose help improve blood circulation in the tissues, as a result of which the process of restoring inflammation-affected structures is activated. The procedure also helps to reduce pain.

Compress rules
A compress should be made in accordance with a number of rules, non-compliance with which can significantly worsen the condition of the child.

The rules for performing compresses for a cold are as follows:

  • The procedure cannot be carried out if the body temperature exceeds 36.6 degrees. Also, you should not make a compress if a runny nose is a symptom of purulent tonsillitis.
  • The application should be applied to the area of ​​the nose and maxillary sinuses. Also, with a cold, with the help of thermal compresses, the feet are warmed up.
  • Compresses are not recommended for children under the age of 2 years.
Compress Recipes
There are many recipes for compresses to combat stuffy nose, which use alcohol, kerosene and other aggressive substances. Such procedures are not recommended for children, as they can cause skin burns.

The types and methods of preparing compresses for a cold in children are as follows:

  • Potato. Several potatoes need to be boiled, then mashed from them, to which you should add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and 2 - 3 drops of iodine.
  • Curd. Fresh granular cottage cheese should be put under a press so that all the liquid is glassed. After that, the cottage cheese must be heated, placed in gauze, formed into a cake and used for a compress.
  • Rye. A homogeneous mass should be prepared from rye flour and honey and heated in a water bath. From the resulting dough, you need to form cakes and use to warm the feet and nose.
Before use, you should consult with a specialist.

The protracted course of the inflammatory process of the mucosa manifests itself in the child as a constant. To normalize the quality of life and relieve symptoms, it is important to differentiate the etiology of rhinitis in a timely manner, to correctly select the treatment with pharmaceuticals.

The article provides an overview of the aggressive factors provoking this clinical condition, and recommendations to parents on what to do if the baby constantly has snot.

Snot is rarely an independent disease. More often, their development is preceded by an allergic reaction, an infectious lesion of the upper respiratory tract. The nasal mucosa performs a barrier function, preventing the penetration of foreign agents into the nasal cavity.

The direct impact of aggressive factors destabilizes the work of the protective mechanism, reduces the activity of the mucociliary apparatus, provokes inflammation and swelling of soft tissues, and abundant production of secretory discharge.

Constant snot gives the child discomfort, prevents full nasal breathing

If you do not limit contact with the irritant, the runny nose becomes protracted.

Possible causes of a very frequent runny nose in a child:

  • allergies. When exposed to antigens, the body reacts with increased production of biogenic amine, serotonin and bradykinin, which contribute to mucus hypersecretion. Mucociliary clearance is sensitized by plant spores, dust, pet hair, household chemicals, food products. With an allergic reaction, the clinical picture is supplemented by lacrimation, coughing, itching and burning inside the nose, redness of the skin.
  • Bacterial and viral ENT diseases. The activation of infectious pathogens is preceded by hypothermia, a state of immunosuppression. Upon contact with microorganisms, the mucosa produces a nasal secret that contains an antimicrobial substance.
  • Vasomotor disorders. The neuroreflex mechanism occurs with sudden thermal changes, inhalation of cold or hot air, against the background of emotional shock, excessive physical exertion. The tone of the vascular wall is disturbed by diseases of the endocrine, cardiovascular, and nervous systems.
  • unfavorable climatic conditions , toxic effect industrial emissions, chemical compounds. In such an environment, the mucosa is subjected to systematic irritation, which increases the likelihood of developing a chronic rhinitis.
  • immunodeficiency state. A weakened defense mechanism is not able to withstand the attack of pathogens. They reach the inner shell, then radiate to healthy organs and systems. The result is frequent and prolonged colds, which are accompanied by a constant flow of snot from the nose, the migration of pathology from the catarrhal stage to the chronic one.
  • Changes in the bone and cartilage structure of the nose. Disrupt natural sanitation nasal cavity that predisposes to growth and reproduction pathogenic microflora congenital anomalies, narrow nasal passages, deviated septum.
  • benign growths(, white seals, papillomas,). During the active phase of growth, neoplasms increase in size, completely blocking the channels of communication between the nasal cavity and outside world. The accumulation of sputum in the projection of the nose is favorable environment for the vital activity of infectious agents, thereby maintaining inflammation in the nasopharynx.
  • Unsystematic use of vasoconstrictor drops. Alpha-adrenergic blockers in the composition of sympathomimetics have pernicious influence on the activity of the ciliated epithelium, which leads to a violation of the outflow of muconasal secretion, drug-induced rhinitis.

Important! Liquid transparent snot in a newborn up to 3 months do not require treatment. In medicine given state marked . In this way, the mucous membrane adapts to new environmental conditions.

With a prolonged runny nose, a child has a risk of developing complications in violation of the dynamic growth process, biological maturation of the baby, changes in the structure of the facial skeleton, inflammation of the larynx, bronchi, and lungs.

It is important to apply for medical care at the first pathological symptoms, treat with a full course until the disappearance of clinical manifestations.

How to treat a constant runny nose in a child

The success of therapeutic measures depends on how competently and accurately the causes of prolonged snot in a baby are determined. To form a diagnosis, the otolaryngologist performs instrumental (rhinoscopy, radiography) and laboratory research(biochemistry and complete blood count, allergy tests, swab from the nasal cavity).

To stabilize the baby it is necessary to create favorable conditions:

  • control humidity(50-60%) and temperature regime in the room(during the day t varies from 20 to 22⁰С, for night sleep it drops to 18⁰С). To maintain the microclimate, use a humidifier, air conditioner or ventilate the room, hang wet towels at the head of the bed (during the heating season on batteries);
  • regular wet cleaning. These measures reduce the concentration of irritating agents and dust in the room, facilitate breathing, improve children's sleep;
  • provide plenty of fluids(natural juices, fruit drinks, compotes, tea, alkaline water without gas). The liquid washes away toxic waste products of pathogenic strains, normalizes water-salt balance in every cell;
  • increase the height of the head of the bed with an extra pillow. This posture improves sputum discharge, facilitates nasal breathing;
  • balance nutrition. Prepare easily digestible food for the child, refuse spices, pickles, smoked meats and marinades. Limit the use of confectionery and bakery products. To saturate the body with vitamins and trace elements, focus on fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy products, lean meats and fish;
  • spend more time outdoors if the child's condition allows. For physiological sanitation of the cavity, the baby must be outside for at least 60-90 minutes.

Advice! When a baby is sick, it is very important to keep breast-feeding. With mother's milk, he receives protective elements, the body's resistance to aggressive factors is formed.

During the period of exacerbation of viral diseases, avoid crowded places, vaccinate in a timely manner, and take antiviral drugs at the first suspicion of respiratory diseases.

Causes of a prolonged runny nose in children

Medical assistance

Stop the causes of prolonged rhinitis without pharmaceuticals difficult. How to treat and what to do if a child has a constant runny nose is determined by the attending physician.

Having differentiated the etiology of the lesion of the upper respiratory tract, the otolaryngologist selects medicines taking into account the physiological characteristics of the patient (weight, height, history, general condition).

A possible list of pharmacotherapy is formed by the following groups:

  • Solutions based on isotonic sea ​​water: "", "Humer", "No-Sol". They enrich the mucosa with useful trace elements, prevent drying out and crusting, increase the aeration of the sinuses, and accelerate the regeneration of soft tissues.
  • Vasoconstrictor:"", "", "Nazol Baby". Temporarily relieve nasal breathing, stop the symptoms of rhinorrhea, eliminate inflammation, reduce spasm in smooth muscle. The therapeutic course is limited 3-5 days, in severe cases it is possible to use up to 10 days.
  • Antihistamines:"Loratadin", "Allergodil", "Fenistil", "Zodak". They block the development of allergic reactions, reduce the production of biogenic amine, reduce swelling of the mucosa, and have an antipruritic effect.
  • Antibacterial:"", "", "", "Flemoxin". Nasal sprays exhibit a local effect, are intended for the sanitation of the nasal cavity, and are active against gram-positive and gram-negative strains. use from 5 to 10 days.
  • Homeopathic: Arsenicum, Allium Cepa, Aconitum, Oscillococcinum. Effective in combination with the main therapy. natural composition has few contraindications. They have an anti-inflammatory effect, increase the level of interferon in the blood, trigger protective and immune processes inside the body.
  • Glucocorticosteroids:"", "", "Flixonase". Steroid components improve the quality of nasal breathing, stop the inflammatory process, and reduce soft tissue swelling.

Advice! Nurofen antipyretic syrup will help reduce the intensity of pain, normalize body temperature.

Constant runny nose good amenable to physiotherapy. To eliminate the symptoms of rhinorrhea, the doctor prescribes a course from 5 to 12 sessions UHF procedures, ultraviolet irradiation, massage of reflexogenic areas.

To make an accurate diagnosis, you will need the medical participation of an otolaryngologist, if necessary, an allergist and an immunologist

With mucosal atrophy, the problem is solved by cryotherapy, laser coagulation, endoscopic intervention. Adenoids and polyps are often removed surgically.

Conclusion

Protracted runny nose indicates pathological changes upper respiratory tract. Inflammation requires medical involvement to determine the destabilizing factor, make a diagnosis, and choose a treatment method.

All parents want their child to grow up healthy. And when children get sick often, it becomes a real problem that requires medical intervention. And in this regard, cases with a constant runny nose are very indicative. It seems that considerable forces are being applied to cure him, but the symptoms still do not go away. What is it connected with, how it manifests itself and what is required to eliminate rhinitis - many puzzle over these questions. But only by contacting a doctor, you can get competent answers.

The main problem with protracted course inflammation in the nose is to determine its origin. Indeed, if the source of the pathology is incorrectly established, even the most modern treatment will be ineffective. The causes of a runny nose in children can be different. First, frequent rhinitis is the result of respiratory viral infections. Then we are talking about a decrease in the body's immune reactivity, and hence its ability to resist infections.

Secondly, the problem may be chronic. But not so much infectious agents as other adverse factors are already involved here:

  • Structural anomalies (deviation of the nasal septum, congenital defects, consequences of fractures, foreign bodies).
  • ENT diseases (adenoids and polyps, sinusitis, tonsillitis).
  • Irritant agents ( cigarette smoke, dust, dry hot or cold air, chemical substances).
  • Sensitization of the body to allergens.
  • Uncontrolled use of vasoconstrictor drops (decongestants).

Harmful aerosols and dust can cause acute at first, and then chronic inflammation mucous membrane. They lead to a violation of the outflow of secretions from the nasal cavity due to the death of the ciliated epithelium. Ventilation disorders occur during volumetric processes that interfere with the passage of air (adenoids, polyps, foreign bodies), and long-term pathological processes in other parts of the respiratory tract only support persistent inflammation nasal mucosa.

Special mention should be made of allergic rhinitis. It has a non-infectious origin, and edema and mucus hypersecretion are caused by the production of histamine, serotonin, and bradykinins. These substances increase vascular permeability and are responsible for other allergy symptoms. And the reason for such sensitization can be various antigens that surround the child in everyday life (food, animal hair, plant pollen, drugs, chemicals). Vasomotor disorders can have a neuroreflex mechanism, arising in response to the inhalation of cold air, with strong odors or stress. In turn, this is also accompanied by rather violent manifestations from the nasal mucosa.

If the child has a constant runny nose, then first of all it is necessary to determine the cause of the violations. There may be several states responsible for such a phenomenon.

Classification

So, it became clear that a runny nose in children can be both acute, but often recurring, and chronic. The latter has several varieties. In the modern classification of protracted rhinitis, there are such forms:

  • catarrhal.
  • Hypertrophic.
  • atrophic.
  • Allergic.
  • Vasomotor.

The first is characterized by superficial inflammation of the mucous membrane. During the hypertrophic process, its compaction occurs. Atrophic rhinitis, on the contrary, is accompanied by thinning of the mucosa and the formation of crusts. Allergic rhinitis, in turn, is seasonal and year-round. It can be included in the structure of atopy (along with dermatitis and bronchial asthma). A vasomotor runny nose is not associated with inflammation or allergic reactions.

Symptoms

To understand why a child has a constant runny nose, you should first deal with his clinical picture. First, the doctor interviews the patient himself and his parents for complaints, and then conducts a general and ENT examination to identify objective signs. As a rule, with a prolonged runny nose, there are the following manifestations:

  • Nasal congestion.
  • Allocations (mucous, mucopurulent).
  • Violation of nasal breathing.
  • Decreased sense of smell.
  • The nasality of the voice.
  • Difficulties in breastfeeding.
  • Headache.
  • Decreased attention and memory.
  • Bad dream.

The last symptoms from the above list are associated with hypoxia due to ventilation disorders. Therefore, children have to breathe through their mouths, which creates a characteristic appearance. If a child has frequent colds, other symptoms may appear, such as cough, sore throat, and fever. Other symptoms of allergic rhinitis include:

  • Uncontrollable sneezing.
  • Watery discharge.
  • Itching in the nose.
  • Lachrymation.
  • Conjunctivitis.

With atrophy of the mucous membrane, children are worried about dryness in the nose and burning. When trying to remove crusts, you may experience slight bleeding and sores. The hypertrophic process is sometimes accompanied by narrowing of the Eustachian tubes, which causes a feeling of pressure in the ears. On examination, the mucous membrane may look different: reddened and edematous, with a cyanotic tint, "marble", hypertrophied or thinned with a viscous secretion and crusts. It all depends on the character lingering runny nose.

The clinical picture prolonged runny nose children have a lot common features. But a more detailed examination allows us to establish the cause.

Additional diagnostics

Turning to a doctor, you can be sure of a quality and timely examination to establish a diagnosis. To understand what causes a frequent runny nose in a child, a laboratory and instrumental examination should be carried out:

  • General blood analysis.
  • Blood biochemistry: immunogram, antibodies to infections.
  • Nasal swab (microscopy, culture).
  • Allergy tests with various antigens.
  • Rhinoscopy.
  • Radiography.

Probably, an allergist or an immunologist will have to be involved in the formation of the final conclusion. We must not allow gaps in the diagnosis to remain, because the success of therapeutic measures can directly depend on this.

Treatment

Having learned about the causes of the pathology, one should move on to ways to treat a persistent runny nose. This requires a differentiated approach, taking into account the nature of the pathology and individual characteristics organism. It should be understood that it is not the symptoms that are to be treated, but their immediate cause. It is impossible to allow the disease to gain a foothold and progress - it is important to eliminate it in time.

The success of treatment is largely determined by the creation of external favorable conditions. Parents with children need to remember that the room should be humid and cool air. In dry and hot weather, you can turn on the air conditioner and humidifier. If this is not the case, simply ventilate and spray water (clean, put wet towels, put filled open containers). This will moisturize the nasal mucosa and allow it to cope with inflammation more easily. A prerequisite treatment of allergic rhinitis will be the elimination of contact with putative antigens.

Food is recommended to be easily digestible, without spices, pickles, smoked meats and marinades. Need to drink more liquid(alkaline mineral water without gas, compotes, juices and fruit drinks). It is better to raise the head of the bed a little to facilitate breathing and secretion. It is necessary to constantly clear the nasal passages of mucus: if the baby cannot blow his nose, then use a suction (aspirator).

So that the child does not get sick so often, you can conduct hardening sessions, vaccinate during the SARS and flu season and avoid mass gatherings of people.

Medicines

It is quite difficult to cure a child with a frequent runny nose without medication. Based on the cause of the pathology, the doctor will prescribe certain drugs. The list of medicines recommended for use in children may include:

  • Salt solutions (Aquamaris, No-Sol).
  • Vasoconstrictor (Nazivin).
  • Antihistamines (Allergodil, Kromoheksal).
  • Antiseptics and antimicrobials (protargol, salicylic acid).
  • Glucocorticoids (Nasonex).
  • Oil solutions (Sinuforte, vitamins A and E, rosehip and sea buckthorn).
  • Immunomodulators (Nazoferon).

These drugs are used as local forms: spray and drops, ointments, inhalations. With vasoconstrictors, one should be especially careful, since their irrational use can cause vasomotor rhinitis. Therefore, all drugs should be prescribed only by a doctor and used under his supervision.

Usage medicines local action is the basis for the treatment of protracted rhinitis in children.

Non-drug remedies

At chronic runny nose widely used physiotherapy: ultraviolet irradiation, UHF-therapy, massage of reflexogenic zones (acupuncture), inhalations mineral waters, Spa treatment. With hypertrophy of the turbinates, they are cauterized using electrical, laser or radio wave coagulation, cryotherapy. Adenoids and polyps are also removed. Foreign bodies are removed from the nasal cavity endoscopically.

A constant runny nose delivers a lot of trouble not only to children, but also to their parents. But in order to get rid of it, you must first find out the cause of the violations. And this is impossible without visiting a doctor. The specialist will conduct an appropriate diagnosis and make a diagnosis, on the basis of which he will tell you what to do in the future. By following the doctor's recommendations, you can be sure of effective elimination protracted runny nose and normalization of the quality of life.

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A runny nose in a child needs mandatory treatment, because the presence of snot in the nasal cavity can lead to very unpleasant consequences. Rhinitis not only causes discomfort to the baby, but also causes many serious complications. Every mom and dad should know about how a runny nose manifests itself in children and why it occurs. It is equally important to have information about what methods of treatment for this disease exist.

Symptoms of a runny nose in a child

Nasal congestion or mucus flow from it is one of the most common manifestations of viral, allergic, bacterial diseases. Frequent runny nose leads to the fact that the baby's immunity decreases, the infection penetrates into the lower respiratory tract, spreads throughout the body. How can parents recognize that a child is sick, especially if he still does not know how to talk about his own condition? There are several classic manifestations:

  1. Nasal congestion. Occurs due to swelling of the mucous membrane.
  2. Sneezing. One of the most characteristic symptoms of allergic rhinitis in children.
  3. Flow of mucus from the nose. It is more common in viral infections. Allocations differ in color, consistency.

Not only direct, but also indirect symptoms may indicate that your baby has a runny nose. There are a number of manifestations of the disease that should alert:

  • deterioration in general condition;
  • headache;
  • lacrimation;
  • temperature rise;
  • deterioration of nasal breathing;
  • decreased sense of smell;
  • tearfulness;
  • capriciousness;
  • irritability;
  • irritation of the skin with pathological secretions (integument under the nose, in the area of ​​​​the upper lip turns red, the skin becomes covered with crusts, cracks).

Temperature and runny nose

The course of the disease with such symptoms is carried out in several ways, depending on the cause:

  1. Rhinovirus infection. Abundant discharge, nasal congestion, sneezing. The temperature does not rise above 37.5 degrees.
  2. adenovirus infection. Nasal congestion, some mucus. The temperature fluctuates between 38-39 degrees.
  3. Rotavirus infection. The temperature jumps sharply to 39 degrees. Severe rhinitis and other manifestations of SARS are accompanied by symptoms of an intestinal disorder: diarrhea, vomiting.
  4. Respiratory syncytial infection. Rhinitis, accompanied by a moderate temperature of 37.2-37.3 degrees. Bronchiolitis or pneumonia sets in quickly.

Cough

This symptom of a runny nose is usually accompanied by a viral infection. The nature of the cough depends on which level of organs is affected. If the inflammation is localized in the nasopharynx, trachea or larynx, it will be dry. When the infection penetrates lower into the bronchi and lungs, the cough becomes wet. The sputum is viscous at first, but with proper treatment it liquefies. Its shade and smell depend on the source of the infection.

The reasons

To establish the disease that provoked a runny nose, you need to analyze its nature and additional symptoms - then all manifestations of a bacterial or viral infection will pass. An assessment of the type of discharge from the nose, their color and consistency will be very informative. There are several reasons that do not speak of any disease:

  • too dusty air in the room where the child spends time;
  • teething;
  • the mechanism for cleaning the nasal cavities has not yet been fully formed (in infants up to 3 months, a runny nose is called physiological);
  • The baby has been crying a lot.

Trying to establish the cause of a runny nose, it is necessary to pay attention to the nature of nasal secretions. The value in the diagnosis is their color, density. What disease is indicated by different types of nasal discharge:

  1. Snot is transparent, mucous. Such a runny nose in a child is characteristic of teething, excessive hypothermia or overheating of the child. Usually, no treatment is needed.
  2. Snot thick, white. characteristic symptom for the initial stage of infectious, inflammatory processes. Sometimes white discharge is accompanied by an allergic rhinitis or ARVI that has not been brought to full recovery.
  3. Thick green discharge. Symptom of the respiratory tract: rhinitis, bronchitis, pneumonia. If snot is emitted bad smell, then you need to check if there is sinusitis, adenoids. Green discharge from the nose is often accompanied by a cough.
  4. thick yellow snot. A signal that the disease has penetrated into the deep sinuses of the nose, and pus has accumulated there. Such discharge appears if the disease is running or the treatment is chosen incorrectly.
  5. The snot is thick, there are bloody patches. Appear at high blood pressure or mechanical damage nose.

Frequent runny nose

There are two types of this phenomenon. Infectious common cold is caused by viruses, bacteria, it can be acute or chronic. The most common cause is a weakened immune system. Non-infectious rhinitis can also be frequent and begins with long-term exposure allergic or neuro-reflex stimulus. The occurrence of non-infectious rhinitis can be facilitated by: hypothermia, deviated nasal septum, being in a dusty room.

severe runny nose

The reasons depend on the age of the children. Sometimes they are completely natural and should not cause concern, but there are cases in which the baby needs immediate help. Severe runny nose occurs due to:

  • teething;
  • infections, SARS;
  • colds;
  • germination of lymphoid tissue in the nasopharyngeal tonsil;
  • allergies.

Runny nose without fever

If you notice that the baby has snot or a stuffy nose, but there are no other deteriorations in the condition, this may signal one of the following infectious diseases:

  • flu
  • laryngitis;
  • nasopharyngitis;
  • tonsillitis;
  • adenoids;
  • intestinal dysbiosis.

Stages of a runny nose in children

There are several stages in the course of the disease. The total duration is one to two weeks. Disease stages:

  1. Reflex. This step takes only a few hours. The vessels narrow reflexively, the mucous membrane turns pale. The production of mucus by the epithelium stops. Dryness, burning of the nasal cavity, sneezing appear. The kid becomes lethargic, may complain of a headache and a sore throat.
  2. Catarrhal. Lasts 2-3 days. The vessels dilate, so the turbinates swell. Congestion appears, it becomes difficult to breathe. With a viral infection, rhinorrhea begins (the flow of transparent watery snot). The voice becomes nasal, lacrimation begins. Depending on the cause of rhinitis, it may be accompanied by fever. The mucous membrane of the nose becomes bright red and swells even more.
  3. Recovery or accession of infection. In the first case, the baby becomes easier, the functions of the nose gradually return. If bacterial inflammation has joined, then the condition first improves. Then the discharge from the nose changes color, becomes thicker. The further course of the disease depends on the type of infection.

How to cure

The problem needs to be solved and quickly, because by itself it will not disappear anywhere and can lead to serious complications. There are many ways to treat a runny nose in children: medications both local and internal reception, folk remedies. Whichever method of therapy you choose, there are several general rules that must be adhered to:

  1. For the duration of the illness, provide the baby with individual dishes and hygiene items.
  2. Temporarily replace bathing with rubdowns.
  3. Regularly ventilate the rooms in which the child spends his time.
  4. In the room for the baby you need to do high-quality wet cleaning. If possible, put a humidifier in the room.
  5. Clean your nose carefully. If the baby is older than 3-4 years, then make sure that he regularly does this on his own.
  6. Provide plenty of warm fluids.

Drops

The treatment of rhinitis in children is quickly and effectively carried out with the help of nasal preparations different groups. The table below shows the classification of drops:

Drug group Name of the drug Application features
Vasoconstrictor Nazol Baby, Nazol Kids Spray It is allowed to use from the common cold from birth to 6 years.
Nazivin The drug is a prolonged action, but it is prescribed to children with caution.
Antihistamines Fenistil, Allergodil Allergy drops allowed from 2 months.
Zyrtec They relieve swelling, help against allergic rhinorrhea.
Tizin Allergy Suitable for children from 6 years old.
Antibiotics (appointed only under strict indications, if the child has a severe runny nose) Isofra Drops with framecitin. Allowed from 1.5 years.
Bioparox Spray and Fusafungine. Allowed from 2 years.
Antiviral Genferon Light Drops with taurine, interferon. Suitable for children from one year old.
Derinat Promotes the renewal of the nasal mucosa. Drops are approved for use from birth.
The safest cold remedies for children Pinosol Herbal preparation with essential oils. Approved for use from 2 years. Softens and moisturizes the nasal mucosa.
Ectericide An oil solution that is antiseptic and perfectly moisturizes. This drug is recommended to be used to eliminate the dryness of the nose, the famous pediatrician Komarovsky.

Inhalations

Highly effective method fight against the common cold. There are many drugs that can be used for inhalation with a nebulizer or for performing the procedure in the usual way:

  1. Dioxin. Dilute the drug with saline to a concentration of 0.25%. Spend inhalations with your child for 10 minutes twice a day.
  2. Sinupret solution. homeopathic remedy. For babies from 2 to 6 years old, the medicine is diluted with saline in a ratio of 1: 3, from 6 to 16 - in a ratio of 1: 2. The inhalation session lasts 10 minutes and is repeated 3 times a day.
  3. Chlorophyllipt. The concentrated solution is diluted with saline in a ratio of 1:10 and used for 10-minute inhalations 2 times a day.
  4. Fluimucil. The solution for injection is diluted with saline in a ratio of 1:4 for children 2-5 years old, and 1:3 for children 5-12 years old.

Folk remedies

There are a lot different recipes drops, compositions for washing, compresses. Folk remedies for the common cold in children:

  1. Brew 1.5 tbsp. l. pharmaceutical chamomile 0.5 l of boiling water. Hold on the steam bath for 10 minutes, then cool and strain. Use to wash the nose 2-3 times a day.
  2. Pour 4 tbsp. l. dried peppermint liter of boiling water. Insist an hour, strain. Let the baby drink 100 ml of this decoction twice a day. To improve the taste, you can add a little lime honey.
  3. In a liter of boiled water, dilute 9 grams of table or sea ​​salt. Rinse your nose with this brine twice a day.
  4. Mix dried yarrow leaves and calendula petals. 1 tsp of this collection pour 250 ml of boiling water. Boil in a water bath for 20 minutes. Cool, strain. Bury the baby 2-4 drops of the solution (depending on age) in each nostril 2 times a day.
  5. Stir in 1 tbsp. l. beetroot juice and boiled water. Bury 1-2 drops in each nasal passage 2 times a day.
  6. Mix equal amounts of dried marigold flowers, psyllium leaves, sage and coltsfoot. Pour a tablespoon of the collection with a glass of boiling water. Hold in a water bath for 5 minutes, then leave for half an hour and then strain. Bury in each nostril 2-3 drops of the solution 3 times a day.
  7. Stir 1 tsp. essential oil mint with the same amount of linden honey. Insist a quarter of an hour. Moisten a gauze bandage in the resulting mixture, apply to the nose for a quarter of an hour. Rinse off the rest of the ointment with warm water. Repeat in the morning and evening.

Is it possible to walk with a child with a cold

Doctors are advised to take the baby to Fresh air if he feels well, he does not have aggravating symptoms: temperature, weakness. If the runny nose is allergic, then the benefits of walking are determined by what irritant it is caused by.. For example, if the baby does not tolerate some plant pollen, then it is better to be at home, and if the reaction occurs to household dust, then being outside, on the contrary, is preferable. There are several rules for walking with an illness:

  1. Limit your baby's contact with other children. It can not only infect healthy people, but also pick up other infections, viruses.
  2. Don't put on "a hundred clothes". If the baby sweats, it will only delay recovery.
  3. Make sure he doesn't get tired. It is better to limit yourself to calm walks, the duration of which will not exceed 40 minutes a day. warm time years and 20 minutes in the cold.
  4. Do not take the baby out for a walk if it is outside strong wind or rain.
  5. Clean your child's nose thoroughly before walking.

Complications

Treatment of a runny nose in a child is mandatory, because in most cases this problem will not disappear on its own and can lead to very unpleasant consequences:

  • chronic rhinitis (catarrhal, hypertrophic, atrophic);
  • rapid fatigue;
  • increased predisposition to allergies;
  • sleep disorders;
  • improper functioning of the respiratory system, cardiovascular system;
  • sinusitis;
  • violation of metabolic processes;
  • problems with the physical development of the child;
  • deformities of the facial skeleton;
  • frequent infections of ENT organs;
  • pharyngitis;
  • tonsillitis;
  • otitis;
  • bronchitis;
  • pneumonia.

Prevention

To reduce the risk of a runny nose in children, parents should adhere to a number of rules that will help maintain health. They are very simple but effective. What to do to minimize the risk of a runny nose in a child:

  • arrange regular walks in the fresh air for the baby;
  • do wet cleaning in the children's room and ventilate it more often;
  • dress the child according to the weather - both hypothermia and overheating are equally unfavorable for him;
  • organize a summer vacation at the sea, in the mountains, in the forest or any other area with clean air;
  • start practicing hardening from an early age;
  • introduce immunostimulating foods into the diet: echinacea, ginger, ginseng, onion, honey, garlic;
  • instill in your baby the habit of moving a lot, playing sports and being physically active.

Video

What to do if there is a constant runny nose in a child? This question worries every parent. It is important to know that such a symptom appears in babies with rhinitis, when the mucous membrane of the olfactory organ is irritated. Before starting the treatment of snot, it is necessary to find out the cause of their appearance. Only after that you can start any manipulations.

The main problem with a prolonged inflammatory process in the nose is the definition of the nature of its occurrence. If the source of the disease is incorrectly identified, even timely therapy will be ineffective. The causes of snot in younger patients can be versatile. Rhinitis usually suffers from respiratory viral infections. The place has a downgrade immune system human, that is, the human body cannot fight back infections.
Pathology can also be chronic. In this case, not only infectious agents are involved, but also other negative factors. The reasons are as follows:

  1. Acquired or congenital anomalies. These include curvature of the septum of the olfactory organ, the consequences of fractures, foreign bodies into the nasal passages.
  2. The presence of ENT diseases. They are adenoids and polyps, tonsillitis, sinusitis.
  3. Allergens. They may be tobacco smoke, dust, chemicals, dry air.
  4. Spontaneous use of vasoconstrictor drops.

Dust and harmful aerosols can first cause an acute course of pathology, which later becomes chronic. Special attention should be paid to allergic rhinitis. It is characterized non-infectious nature occurrence. It is called due to the entry of an irritant into the nasal passages.
There is another reason for a prolonged runny nose, which is related to the smallest. Slight clear discharge may occur at the time of teething. This process is accompanied by a decrease in immunity. For this reason, the body becomes more vulnerable to various infections. They are similar in texture to saliva and are colorless.

Classification

A runny nose in a child can be both acute and chronic. Chronic form has its own classification. Prolonged runny nose has the following forms:

  • catarrhal;
  • hypertrophic;
  • atrophic;
  • allergic;
  • vasomotor.

The catarrhal form is characterized by mild inflammation of the mucous membrane of the olfactory organ. In the case of the second form, mucosal thickening is observed. In the atrophic form, it becomes thinner and crusts form. allergic form may be seasonal or year-round. last view not associated with the inflammatory process and allergic reactions.

Symptoms of a constant runny nose

In order to identify the reasons why the child has a constant runny nose, you need to pay attention to the symptoms that appear. The patient's complaints are taken into account, and the baby is examined. If the child constantly has a runny nose, then they appear the following symptoms:

  • decreased sense of smell;
  • unhealthy sleep;
  • violation of nasal breathing;
  • hoarseness of voice;
  • congestion of the olfactory organ;
  • the occurrence of mucous or purulent-mucous compartments;
  • decrease in attention.

The last signs are associated with hypoxia due to ventilation changes. Children are allowed to breathe through their mouths. If the baby has a cold, then a cough, fever, and sore throat may occur. In the case of allergic rhinitis, babies show other symptoms:

  • watery compartments;
  • lacrimation;
  • conjunctivitis;
  • itching in the organ of smell.

With atrophy of the mucosa, dryness and a burning sensation appear. In case of separation of crusts and ulcers,

Treatment

A frequent runny nose in a child becomes the root cause of a change in the microclimate in the apartment. This is necessary if the air is too dry. The nasal passages dry up, and nasal drops only aggravate the whole situation and cause addiction in the child. Humidify the air with a special device. The room should be ventilated from time to time. Clean the room daily. The baby is shown to consume as much liquid as possible. This will help remove toxins from the body.
The general treatment regimen is as follows:

  1. Thoroughly rinse the nasal cavity.
  2. Moisturize mucous membranes.
  3. Apply drops that help reduce mucus separation.
  4. If necessary, apply drops with.
  5. Use antibacterial ointments.

Antibiotics and antibacterial drugs are prescribed only by the attending physician. It is important to master the technique of washing the olfactory organ in order to avoid regular rhinitis in babies. The washing procedure is carried out using saline solutions. It is possible to prepare at home by mixing salt with water in the proportion of a teaspoon to a glass of water. Also, children can use special sprays with sea salt.
To reduce mucus, Collargol and Protargol drops are often prescribed. Parents use drops that constrict capillaries with frequent runny nose, which are best replaced with oil-based products. They will not dry the mucous membrane of the olfactory organ too much. Pinosol drops are an excellent option. To moisturize the mucosa, inhalations with a nebulizer are effective.
It is almost impossible to cure a runny nose without medication. What to do with such a pathology? Usually small patients are prescribed:

  1. Immunomodulators. Effective is Nazoferon.
  2. Oil solutions - vitamins A and E, sea ​​buckthorn, wild rose.
  3. Vasoconstrictor drug Nazivin.
  4. Saline solutions Aqua Maris, No-Sol.
  5. Antihistamine medicines - Kromoheksal, Allergodil.
  6. Salicylic acid as an antimicrobial agent.

Use medicines local action is the basis for the treatment of prolonged rhinitis in children.

With a constant runny nose, an integrated approach to solving the problem is important. The main ways to deal with pathology are:

  • breathing exercises;
  • acupressure;
  • warm bathrooms;
  • warm compresses on the nose;
  • with allergic rhinitis, protect the child from the irritant;
  • inhalation.

At the time of sleep, the pillow should be raised. This will help your child breathe easier. The secreted mucus will not accumulate in the nose.
If you follow all the recommendations, you can save your baby from a runny nose very quickly. It is important to consult a doctor when only the first symptoms appear. Even a small manifestation of rhinitis cannot be ignored.

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