Causes of common cold in children. Runny nose in children

Runny nose- the main symptom of a cold or viral respiratory disease. It usually appears with a cold and disappears with it too. However, it also happens that a person is worried about a frequent runny nose, which, it would seem, occurs for no reason. In fact, such a process is caused by certain factors, even if it seems to the patient that there are no reasons for such a condition of the nasopharynx.

Causes of frequent runny nose in children and adults

Causes frequent runny nose are quite diverse, so much so that sometimes even a specialist finds it difficult to understand the nature of its origin. The most common cause of nasal discharge is infectious diseases such as influenza, measles, scarlet fever. Sometimes even a slight inflammation of the nasal mucosa leads to the development of rhinitis, which worries a person for a long time.

Another, perhaps the most common cause of frequent runny nose in a child is an increase in adenoids. Dust and air pollution are unfavorable factors that worsen the condition of the nasopharynx with enlarged adenoids.

Symptoms of a very frequent runny nose in infants

If there is a frequent runny nose in a newly born baby, do not worry ahead of time. Most likely, such a process is not a pathology, but is caused by the physiological characteristics of the functioning of children's respiratory tract. In pediatrics, such a concept as "physiological runny nose" is known, it is an increased secretion of mucus from the baby's nasopharynx in order to cleanse the respiratory tract and prepare them for new living conditions.

A very frequent runny nose in both children and adults can occur as a result of an allergic reaction. It is not difficult to recognize it, because it is accompanied by such symptoms:

frequent prolonged sneezing;
itching and burning in the nose;
dryness of the mucous membrane;
abundant mucous transparent selection.

However, a frequent runny nose in a child should still be a reason for his parents to seek help from a pediatrician. The specialist will establish the causes of this condition of the nasopharynx and, if the disease develops, will prescribe an effective treatment. It is impossible to let such a process take its course, because even a slight inflammation of the nasal mucosa in a child can result in the development of sinusitis for the baby. When the inflammatory process is not treated, the condition of the nasopharynx worsens and then it will be much more difficult to cure the disease. One of the complications of a protracted runny nose is, which especially often occurs in children. To prevent this, with frequent and prolonged child ears should be buried as a preventive measure.

Among the causes of frequent runny nose in adults, otolaryngologists call such a factor as the curvature of the nasal septum. It can be congenital or acquired, in these two cases, a person is often worried about rhinitis.

Treatment of a common cold with drugs and folk remedies

When the first signs of rhinitis are detected, all measures should be taken to eliminate the signs of the disease as quickly as possible. To do this, it is advisable to wash the sinuses saline. What to do with a frequent runny nose in a child and can he wash his nose? Babies cannot wash their nose, but it can be dripped with a saline or saline solution, the nose must first be cleared of mucus using a rubber bulb or a special aspirator.

If irritation of the nasal mucosa is observed, it can be removed with oil-based nasal drops. With abundant discharge from the nose, vasoconstrictor drugs are used to alleviate the patient's condition. During the treatment of rhinitis in children, such drugs cannot be used for more than 5 days, while they must necessarily belong to the group of children's medicines.

At purulent secretions from the nose shows the use of antibiotics. Antibacterial drugs can only be prescribed by an otolaryngologist, who takes into account the age of the patient and the type of causative agent of bacterial rhinitis.

Frequent runny nose in adults can be tried to cure folk remedies. Such are considered effective folk methods rhinitis treatment:

A solution of aloe juice and honey, taken in the same amount. In this medicine, cotton turundas should be moistened and inserted first into one nasal passage, and after 15–20 minutes into the other.
Finely chop the onion and garlic, put on a saucer and pour a small amount of water. For 10 minutes, carry out cold inhalation, inhaling the medicinal phytoncides of onion and garlic.
cook fresh beet-carrot juice, dilute half with water and drip nasal passages.

Frequent runny nose should not be started, since a constant inflammatory process leads to serious illnesses nasopharynx.

Below are the most common causes runny nose in children.

Viral infections. Coronaviruses, rhinoviruses, adenoviruses and other pathogenic agents cause a child sharp forms rhinitis.
Bacterial and fungal infections. Less common cause of the common cold, as a rule, are pathogens on late stages rhinitis during the transition from acute to chronic stage diseases.
Hypothermia or a sharp temperature drop. Local or general hypothermia / temperature difference child's body is not considered a direct cause of the common cold, but significantly reduces the immune response, which in turn allows viruses, bacteria and other pathogens to become activated almost unhindered and provoke the development of the underlying disease.
Allergens. Allergic rhinitis is a real scourge of modern society, especially for a child living in a large metropolis. Seasonal plant pollen, pet hair or saliva, dust, waste products of mites, other types of allergens can provoke the development of acute and chronic rhinitis, which does not go away on its own and requires special therapy.
Manifestations of other underlying diseases. A runny nose almost always accompanies diseases such as influenza, measles, diphtheria, and so on.
The impact of smoke, chemicals, other irritants on the mucous membrane.
Contact with the mucous membrane of a foreign body.
Side effect a number of medicines ( drug rhinitis).

Symptoms

The symptoms of a runny nose are quite unambiguous and have a clear clinical picture.

First stage. Dry irritation of the mucosa with its hyperemia. There is a burning sensation in the nasal passages, the child constantly wants to sneeze and “cry”. Subfebrinal temperature often manifests itself, there is a moderate pain syndrome of the head, general malaise, weakness, in some cases - signs of intoxication with aching limbs. As a rule, this stage lasts a day, a maximum of two days.
Second stage. Puffiness forms on the mucous membrane, breathing through the nose is difficult, due to the narrowing of the nasal passages, nasal congestion develops, children often have impaired ability to taste sensations and odor detection. Wet serous secretions are actively manifested, often liquid and colorless - this seeps through weakened small-caliber vessels, the liquid fraction of blood plasma, which in turn provokes forced secretion already on the mucosa. Around the nasal passages, on the wings of the nose and upper lip, there is irritation caused by the serous components of the secret - sodium chloride and ammonia.
Third stage. With a sufficiently strong immunity in a child, a cold can pass in 3-5 days and end in the second stage. If this does not happen, then after a while, you will be able to observe a yellow / green mucopurulent discharge from the nose with an almost complete blockade of the nasal passages due to severe swelling. The child breathes exclusively through the mouth, there is a partial hearing loss due to stuffy ears. Under favorable circumstances, after another 3-4 days, the above symptoms subside, the swelling begins to subside and the cure occurs 14-18 days after the onset of the common cold. However, in the absence of proper treatment in most cases, rhinitis passes into a chronic phase.

Satisfied, most parents do not perceive a runny nose as a disease and let it take its course, believing that after a while, the child's immunity will cope with the disease on its own. Unfortunately, the current generation of children has a weakened immune system, which in turn creates certain risks of complications even after a common cold. A runny nose in a child can and should be treated!

It is very important to understand the cause of the common cold. If a runny nose is caused by SARS or a common cold, then there is no need to carry out "active" treatment. First of all, it is necessary to provide the apartment with fresh air (ventilate often). Secondly, make sure that the air in the apartment is humid. Moisten the nasal passage with normal saline or a preparation such as Salina. In 90% of cases, this is more than enough to treat a runny nose in a child.

What to do when a child has a runny nose

First of all - identify the cause of a runny nose, and do not run to the pharmacy for vasoconstrictor drugs.
If the child is small, make sure that mucus does not accumulate in the nose, regularly free the nasal passages from snot with the help of an aspirator. Can a baby blow his nose on his own? Provide him with disposable wipes, which after use can be thrown into a bucket to wash his hands. Leave tissue handkerchiefs in the last century - bacteria accumulate on them.
Without extreme necessity, do not use antipyretics - the correct immune response of the body involves the occurrence of subfebrile temperature, therefore it is rational to use paracetamol and other drugs only in case of high fever and raising the rate above 38 degrees.
Try to protect the child from drafts, while regularly ventilating the rooms where he is, providing, if necessary, normal level humidity.
Avoid nose drops based on eucalyptus, peppermint, milk, etc. oils. - in a child, this can not only aggravate the disease, causing additional irritation, an active allergic response, and in some cases even sinusitis, when a viscous substance enters the nasal sinuses and accumulates there.

Medical

providing temporary relief of edema - Vibrocil, Brizolin, Otrivin, Nazivin for the appropriate age. They can be used for no more than 10 days in a row, since there is a rapid adaptation of the mucosa to the main active ingredient drugs and significantly reduced its effectiveness. Moreover, with prolonged use, vasoconstrictor drugs can cause backlash- medical rhinitis.
- drugs Dolphin, Aqua-Maris, etc. Produced after the use of vasoconstrictor drugs and thorough blowing. If the child is too small and this procedure it is impossible to carry out - use the usual instillation of a saline solution or preparations like Salina according to the above scheme.
local use antiseptics and anti-inflammatory drugs - Avamys or analogues.
With the allergic nature of the common cold - antihistamines Loratadine tablets or Erius syrup.
Antiviral and antibacterial local preparations. In the case of a confirmed infectious nature of the disease, the use of local antibiotics and antiviral sprays such as Bioparox, Isofra.
The use of non-narcotic analgesics and antipyretics of low toxicity with an antipyretic effect as needed - paracetamol, ibuprofen tablets, rectal suppositories or syrup.
The use of immunomodulators in instillation solutions (Derinat) or tablet / syrup forms based on interferon and its derivatives / combinations.
Vitamin complexes with a high content of vitamin C.
Conservative physiotherapy - diathermy, UHF, UV irradiation, inhalation with a nebulizer.

Treatment with folk remedies

Any folk remedies used in relation to a child in the treatment of a cold should, in without fail agree with the pediatrician!

Squeeze the juice from a beet or carrot, dilute it 1 to 1 with clean water and instill one drop in each nostril three times a day for a week.
Perform inhalations based on decoctions of chamomile or saline solutions.
Dissolve ½ teaspoon of salt in 100 milliliters of water, moisten 2 swabs with the solution and place them in the child's sinuses for 5 minutes.
Take the required amount of onion and honey in a ratio of 1 to 1, make the most pounded mixture from the ingredients and take one teaspoon 4 times a day thirty minutes before meals for a week.
50 grams pine buds brew in 1 liter of water, boil the broth for 10 minutes, strain and let the child drink 4 times a day in a glass with honey or jam.
Take in equal proportions dry collections of calendula, yarrow and chamomile. Pour one teaspoon of the mix with a glass of boiling water and put on water bath(about twenty minutes). Cool, strain and drip into the nose two drops three times a day for a week and a half.
Cut the onion in half, grate the garlic, put the components on a plate. Let the child breathe the emitted phytoncides until slight burning sensation in the nose/throat. Repeat the procedure 5-6 times a day until recovery.

Complications after a cold in a child

To the list possible complications runny nose in children include the formation of a chronic form of rhinitis, otitis, conjunctivitis, all types of sinusitis, diseases of the lower respiratory tract (laryngitis, pharyngitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, tracheitis), and in some cases - meningitis.

Prevention

The basic preventive list of measures to prevent the occurrence of a runny nose in a child includes hardening, normalization of lifestyle with the organization proper diet nutrition and a full cycle of work / rest / sleep, taking general tonic and immunomodulatory drugs, as well as the use of external protective ointments applied to inner surface nasal passages ( oxolinic ointment) during epidemics, timely treatment pathologies of the nasopharynx (adenoids, curvature of the septum, etc.).

Useful video

Runny nose and medicines for the common cold - Dr. Komarovsky's School

Komarovsky about children's runny nose

A runny nose is an inflammation of the nasal mucosa, accompanied by discharge. A runny nose may indicate a child's morbidity with acute respiratory diseases or an allergic reaction to a particular irritant. Frequent runny nose may indicate chronic rhinitis. Therefore, it should not be ignored. You should not only get rid of the symptoms of a runny nose, but also find out the cause of its occurrence.

Causes of the development of a frequent runny nose in a child

Types of runny nose in children:

Infectious rhinitis. Often caused by viruses or bacteria. Allocate acute and chronic rhinitis.
noninfectious rhinitis. Occurs as a result of prolonged exposure to an irritant. Non-infectious or vasomotor rhinitis is divided into allergic and neuro-reflex.

The causes of the disease can be:

Cold air

Incidence

Allergy to something

Deviated septum of the nose

How to treat a frequent runny nose in a child at home?

In the autumn-winter period, rhinitis is quite frequent occurrence in children. He can be like independent disease, and a companion of influenza, acute respiratory infections or other diseases. By virtue of their physiological features even a slight runny nose can make it very difficult for a child to breathe. Therefore, even a slight runny nose must be properly treated. To do this, you need not only to use medications (drops, ointments, tablets), but also monitor the condition of the air in the room, proper hygiene nose and so on.

Many mothers go to extremes. Some believe that private rhinitis in a child is not a serious disease and you should not worry, it will go away on its own in a week. Others panic and use everything possible means, including pharmaceuticals. You should not panic, but you should not let everything take its course either. Proper treatment and care will help to cope with the disease and will not lead to complications.

Tips for treating a common cold in children?

Is your baby running nose again? Sooner or later, all parents face the need to choose a remedy for a cold for a child. Meanwhile, dads and moms understand that universal means from this disease simply does not exist. Only A complex approach can help the baby overcome it unpleasant disease. Consider the main ways to deal with the disease in children.

Always make sure that the air in the room where the sick child is located is well humidified. Open windows as often as possible, ventilate, regularly do wet cleaning in the nursery. Use a humidifier to help your child recover from a runny nose. Wet diapers hung around the room can replace this device.

The nasal passages also need moisture. To do this, you can use saline or thuja oil, as well as sea water. The child's nose must be washed periodically, freeing it from accumulated mucus. The best for these purposes are such remedies for the common cold as Aqua Maris, Physiomer.

After consulting with a pediatrician, it is necessary to bury the nose with drops or use folk remedies for instilling the nose.

Inhalation is also a great way to treat a common cold in a child. You can do inhalations with decoctions of various herbs or with mineral water. The main thing is not to forget about the precautions. Too hot water is dangerous with scalding steam, which can damage the lungs of a child, so in no case should the comfortable temperature be exceeded.

Aromatherapy and warm baths.

Warm compresses on the nose.

Avoid hypothermia, lead a healthy lifestyle, harden and monitor nasal hygiene.

An effective method against the common cold is acupressure and breathing exercises.

In case of allergic or neuro-reflex rhinitis, the child should be protected from contact with the irritant.

important and effective remedy- plentiful intensive drink. The baby should drink often and in large quantities. Teas, decoctions should be used, natural juices and various fruit drinks. If the cause of the disease is a viral infection, then it will be very useful to solder the patient with linden tea. This tea not only strengthens children's immunity It helps to expel the virus from the body.

With a runny nose, it is very difficult for a child to fall asleep. If the baby's head is horizontal, then the secreted mucus accumulates in the nose and makes it difficult to breathe freely. To avoid this, you need to try to lift the pillow. You can put another pillow, cushion or folded blanket at the head of the bed.

A proven way to treat a frequent runny nose in a child is vasoconstrictors. Many doctors themselves recommend them to reduce swelling and alleviate the condition of a sick baby. But we must not forget that these drops must be treated very carefully, observe the dosage, frequency and duration of use. If you still decide to use them, do not forget to rid the child's nose of accumulated mucus before instillation. Otherwise, the drops simply will not work.

An old remedy for a runny nose - dry mustard in children's socks - can give very, very good results.

Combining various means, you can quickly save the baby from pain, which is what we wish you.

Even a slight manifestation of rhinitis should be treated and not ignored. However, diseases are easier to prevent than to treat. Therefore, do gymnastics, harden the body and lead a healthy lifestyle with your child. And then, all diseases will bypass you and your family.

Runny nose (in the medical literature rhinitis ) 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 peculiarities of the anatomical structure of the nasal passages and the 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”. The immunity of the child's body begins to decline when 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» 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 bodies 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 performs a number of 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 cold, the physical and mental development child.

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 is especially important 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 years of life, they have infectious cause runny nose 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). Virus transmission is known to occur by airborne droplets. Saliva particles containing viruses enter the external environment when the patient sneezes or coughs. After that, the viruses enter the nasal mucosa 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.

Non-infectious causes of a 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 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 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 a completely harmless disease, it significantly affects the quality of life of a 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. In this case, the exacerbation of the disease is associated with eating certain products. Mites can act as non-food allergens house dust, animal epidermis, wool.

Stages of development of the common cold

On average, a runny nose lasts 7 to 10 days. If we are talking about 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. With 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 an 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, appears headache, nasal breathing worsens, sense of smell decreases.

Since young children cannot express their complaints, they mostly cry. How less baby 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.

Lacrimation - very characteristic symptom for a runny nose. It is caused by irritation. reflex zones mucous membrane of the nasal cavity. 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.

The total duration of this disease varies from 8 to 14 days. If general and local immunity the child is not disturbed, 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
With 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 tint. 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. The development of vasomotor rhinitis is based on neurovegetative disorders, which cause a sharp spasm of the nasal vessels.

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 others viral infections manifested by profuse rhinorrhea. Simultaneously with the rise in temperature to 38 degrees, there are copious discharge from the nose. Discharge from the nose first wears slimy character. 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 is young, 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 a 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 other respiratory symptoms are 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 (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 complete violation 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. Such a feature clinical picture 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 quickly worsens inflammatory process in the middle ear, which in young children is very difficult. The development of such a complication as otitis media is accompanied by dramatic changes in the behavior of the child. Due to the appearance severe pain, the intensity of which is growing rapidly, the child is deprived of rest. He starts crying, screaming, shaking his head. Such 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), nasal injuries, prolonged action 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 of chronic rhinitis and sinusitis;
stop at physical development 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. As a rule, acute rhinitis 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 is important to know that the maximum use time of any vasoconstrictors should not exceed 5 - 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 with warm water. 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 are breathing exercises, massage of bioactive points, spa 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 an effective method of treatment, and, if carried out in a timely and correct manner, 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.

Rules for the use of a nebulizer when children's runny nose the following:

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 enough 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.

The rules for steam inhalation are as follows:

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
Not used in steam inhalers 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 simplest method, as they do not require special devices and devices. In order to carry out such a procedure, in any convenient container ( deep bowl, saucepan) hot herbal decoction is poured. 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. Preparations from herbs and natural products help to 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:

nasal lavage;
nasal instillation;
plentiful drink;
heat compresses.

Washing the nose with a runny nose in children

Nasal lavages are carried out in order to clear the sinuses of mucus and normalize respiratory process. This procedure, if performed regularly and correctly, can 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 with the help of 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 injected 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.
Manipulation should be continued until the liquid poured into the nose reaches 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 done before full recovery child. 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.
Alternation gives the best effect various solutions because each remedy has a specific effect. If it's time to rinse your nose, and ready solution No, you can rinse the mucosa with clean water.
Washing water ( how to 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 should not strain your muscles too much, make sudden head movements, or sniff the solution too vigorously with your 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. Calendula solution has bactericidal action 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 faster tissue repair.
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 of 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 contributes to the formation of an 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 mucous membranes and acts as 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 in a steam bath for 15 to 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. Plentiful drink helps prevent dehydration, which is important when high temperature. Also at elevated temperature teas with antipyretic action will help.

Rules drinking regime
For the drink to bring maximum benefit, when preparing and drinking tea, some rules should be observed.

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. A few potatoes need to be boiled, then mashed from them, to which 2 tablespoons should be added 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.

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 fruitless. The causes of snot in younger patients can be versatile. Rhinitis usually suffers from respiratory viral infections. The place has a lowering of the human immune system, that is, the human body cannot fight back infections.
Pathology may also chronic. In this case, not only infectious agents are involved, but also other negative factors. The reasons are as follows:

Acquired or congenital anomalies. These include curvature of the septum of the olfactory organ, the consequences of fractures, foreign bodies into the nasal passages.
The presence of ENT diseases. They are adenoids and polyps, tonsillitis, sinusitis.
Allergens. They may be tobacco smoke, dust, chemical substances, dry air.
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 by a non-infectious nature of 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. The 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. At atrophic form thinning occurs and crusts form. The allergic form can be seasonal and year-round. The latter type is in no way 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:

Thoroughly rinse the nasal cavity.
Moisturize mucous membranes.
Apply drops that help reduce mucus separation.
If necessary, apply drops with.
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 performed 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:

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

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

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

breathing exercises;
acupressure;
warm bathrooms;
warm compresses on the nose area;
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.