Home Remedies for Chest Congestion in Babies and Infants

What Causes Chest Congestion in Infants?

Chest congestion in infants occurs due to the accumulation of mucus in the respiratory tract, making it difficult for babies to breathe comfortably. In most cases, chest congestion is often linked to various respiratory diseases and environmental factors. Here are the causes of chest congestion in infants —

• Common cold and other respiratory diseases:

One of the most common causes of chest congestion in infants is the common cold. Other respiratory diseases, such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and asthma, can also cause inflammation in the upper or lower airways, leading to chest congestion.

• Sinusitis:

Although less common in infants, inflammation in the sinuses can cause chest congestion. A sinus infection can also lead to nasal congestion and headache.

• Poor immune system:

Since the immune system of newborn babies is still in the developing stage, they are more susceptible to various infections. As the babies grow, their immune systems become stronger.

• Allergic reactions:

Although rare, allergic reactions in babies can also cause chest congestion. Common allergens such as dust, pollen, or certain foods may lead to inflammation in the nasal passages, respiratory tract, and lungs, resulting in chest congestion.

• Environmental factors:

Exposure to polluted air and smoke can also cause chest congestion in infants, as it can cause irritation in the respiratory system, leading to infections and inflammation.

Symptoms

How can you ascertain if your baby has chest congestion? Here are the symptoms you can watch out for —

• Laboured breathing:

Shallow or rapid breathing can be one of the signs that your baby may experience due to chest congestion. You will notice flaring of nostrils when your baby inhales.

• Wheezing:

This often occurs due to obstruction in the airways. Do you hear a whistling sound when your baby inhales or exhales? Well, that can be a sign of chest congestion.

• Coughing:

A persistent cough, accompanied by a rattling sound, is also a common symptom of chest congestion, leading to difficulty in breathing.

• Nasal flaring and stuffy nose:

Do you see your baby’s nostrils flaring or stuffy nose? It can be due to nasal or chest congestion. In some cases, a runny nose can also be a sign to ascertain that your baby is experiencing chest congestion.

• Fussiness or irritation:

Babies experience discomfort when they have chest congestion. They may show irritation and fussiness, often while feeding or sleeping, as they have difficulty breathing.

Watch out for these signs, and if these symptoms worsen, consult with a paediatrician immediately.

Natural Ways to Soothe Chest Congestion in Babies and Infants

While it is essential to go to a doctor if the condition persists, you can try these natural home remedies for cough and chest congestion in infants —

1. Warm water bath:

This is one of the effective methods to relieve chest congestion, as it helps loosen the accumulated mucus in the chest, making it easier for infants to breathe. Run warm or tepid water over your baby’s body and towel-try.

2. Exposure to Steam:

This requires caution, considering the safety of your baby. But you can still try safe methods to expose your baby to steam. Run hot water in a bathroom and close the door. Once the steam fills the entire bathroom, turn off the tap water and sit with your baby in the bathroom. You can also place a bowl of hot water on a table and allow your baby to inhale the steam at a safe distance from the bowl.

3. Camphor and coconut oil rub:

Rubbing camphor and coconut oil on a baby’s chest can help in decongestion in the chest. Heat coconut oil in a pan and add a small piece of camphor to it. Allow the oil to cool and apply a few drops on your baby’s chest gently in circular motions.

4. Turmeric oil massage:

This can also help ease chest congestion in your baby, as turmeric contains anti-inflammatory properties and can help fight infections. Gently heat mustard/coconut oil in a pan and add a pinch of turmeric to it. Allow it to cool a little and apply the oil gently on your baby’s chest, giving him/her a good massage.

5. Black pepper and honey syrup:

Honey helps soothe the throat, and black pepper helps clear mucus from the airways. To prepare, mix a pinch of black pepper with two drops of honey and feed it to your baby gently. Caution: Do not administer this if your baby is just a few months old.

6. Saline Drops:

Administering saline drops to your baby can help heal chest congestion, as it can clear nasal passages. You can find a saline drop at a pharmacy. Lay your baby on a bed and gently administer 2-3 drops to your baby’s nostrils through a bulb.

7. Breastfeeding and hydration:

Keeping your baby hydrated is important to relieve chest congestion, as it helps thin the mucus. For infants, breastfeeding is the best way to ensure they are well hydrated. Breastmilk contains natural soothing properties and can help ease chest congestion.