Phlegm in babies: why do they occur and how can they be avoided?

Phlegm in babies: why do they occur and how can they be avoided?

Mucus that goes down and up continuously, discomfort and discomfort ... phlegm can be difficult for the baby to expel, especially when he still does not have the reflex to cough on his own and clear his throat.

Phlegm in babies is almost always accompanied by congestion, two of the symptoms, in fact, most common among the smallest of the house. Generally they are usually harmless, although it is true that they can become extremely uncomfortable, especially when the phlegm is accompanied by a cough (generally productive), and loud and / or rapid breathing, which will end up alarming or worrying the parents.

It is very common for phlegm to be accompanied by other equally related symptoms, such as a stuffy nose, a runny nose, and a sore throat.

Contrary to what we may think at first, mucus is, in fact, a fluid and normal substance produced by many tissues in our body, in order to act as a moisturizing and protective layer to prevent some important organs from dry. What's more, it also acts as a "trap" for some irritating substances, such as dust, smoke, or even bacteria.

However, its production increases in the presence of certain diseases and conditions. This is what usually happens with respiratory infections, such as colds, flu and sinusitis.

Do you know exactly what phlegm is?

Phlegm basically consists of a type of mucus produced in the lungs and lower respiratory tract. It is the term used to refer to mucus produced by the respiratory system, particularly when excess mucus is produced - and expelled.

Although phlegm alone is not dangerous, when it is present in large amounts it can end up obstructing the airways. If we take into account that phlegm is generally expelled when coughing, babies - especially when they are still young - are not able to cough on their own, so it is more common that obstruction can be an added risk.

What are the causes of phlegm in babies?

We always think that a cold or cold tends to be some common causes of baby phlegm production, especially when it comes to excessive phlegm. And rightly so, since respiratory infections are usually the common causes of increased mucus production (and, in turn, the appearance of both mucus cough and phlegm). But the reality is that it is not the only related cause.

For example, did you know that allergies can cause the baby's body to create and generate additional phlegm? Since the baby is not yet able to blow his nose or clear his throat, this phlegm remains for a long time in his narrow nasal passages. In fact, allergic reactions are also another reason why mucus production - and phlegm - can increase.

Even the consumption of spicy foods can cause excess mucus production in the nostrils (although it is very likely that this is not the cause of phlegm in babies, as it is evident to suppose ...).

In short, in babies and young children, the appearance of phlegm can be caused by:

.Respiratory infections, such as the flu or a common cold.

.Respiratory allergies.

.Irritation of the nose, lungs and throat.

.Lung diseases, such as pneumonia or cystic fibrosis.

How to relieve the presence of phlegm in babies

Since babies cannot cough in order to expel all the mucus, since the walls of their chest are not fully developed, they need a little help to remove excess mucus, phlegm and thus facilitate breathing.

Water is essential, since it is essential to maintain adequate hydration since the liquid helps to dissolve and mobilize excess mucus, being very useful to improve its elimination. The same is true for breastfeeding; If you are breastfeeding, the ideal is to keep him properly hydrated.

Generating a humid environment, for example with the help of a small humidifier can be very helpful. For example, in stores you can find electric vaporizers specially designed for use in baby and child's bedrooms. Of course, it is essential to clean them well often, to prevent the formation of fungi, whose spores are harmful to the child's breathing.

Clearing the nose with great care is also very helpful, since it is very common for phlegm to be accompanied by nasal congestion. Especially before feeding it (so you can eat more calmly), it is advisable to use a gentle suction. First of all you must lay it on its side, applying a little serum to one of the nostrils, while pressing the other slightly. Then repeat the operation with the other hole.