What should be done to relieve the chest congestion and blocked nose of my 3-weeks-old son?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have a boy who is 3 weeks old. He has chest congestion, and his nose is blocked. He had somewhat difficulty breathing today. I want to know the best and safest way to treat my son. Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concern.

As your baby is just 3 weeks old and having some breathing difficulty, you need to closely watch him for his breathing. If he is otherwise active and feeding well, I suggest Normal Saline nasal drops, two drops in each nostril every four hours for three days (keep head end slightly lowered while putting the drops).

If there is no improvement in breathing after the nose is open or if the baby is not feeding well or breathing difficulty increases, or if there is noisy and fast breathing, then take him to the emergency room for a complete checkup for any chest infection.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.