A 7-month-old baby girl accompanied by her parents visited a pediatrician with a complaint of cold from 2-3 days. The mother of the baby mentioned that she was not feeling well and was acting fussy. Moreover, her milk intake had decreased and she was not taking any semi-solid/solid food. Upon examination, the patient had mild congestion but no fever. She was prescribed medicines for 3 days along with nasal saline drops for a week. The mother was advised to put 1-2 saline drops once daily into the nose of the baby. After a week, the parents informed that the baby was doing well.

Saline helps in decreasing congestion, humidifying nose, and improving breathing in infants.^1,2 It also promotes better feeding and sleep; and reduces the probability of cold.¹ Besides, it aids in reducing the dependence on antibiotics and other medications such as decongestants, antihistamines, and corticosteroids.^1,2

References

1. Nasal hygiene. Available at: https://www.chusj.org/getmedia/4288da42-4e62-43c9-8500-c300b1eebc2a/depliant_F-886-A_hygiene-nasale.pdf.aspx?ext=.pdf Accessed on 2 November 2020
2. Chirico G, Quartarone G, Mallefet P. Nasal congestion in infants and children: a literature review on efficacy and safety of non-pharmacological treatments. Minerva Pediatr. 2014 Dec;66(6):549-57.