The doctor explains: "Saline solutions are the safest for nasal care. An isotonic solution (0.9%) is suitable for daily hygiene and moisturizing of the mucous membrane, while a hypertonic solution (2% and above) helps to reduce swelling and thin thick mucus. These drops can be used from birth, as they are not addictive and are suitable for preventive purposes."
She added: "As for decongestants, they should only be used strictly according to the doctor's instructions. They relieve severe swelling and facilitate breathing. Phenylephrine can be used from birth because it is short-acting, while oxymetazoline is used from the age of one and has a longer-lasting effect. It is important not to use vasoconstrictor drops more than two to three times a day, and for no more than 3 to 5 days."
The doctor noted that some safe children's eye drops contain additional moisturizing ingredients, such as dexpanthenol (panthenol), which helps to soothe irritated mucous membranes. She explained that essential oils are not recommended for infants and should be used with extreme caution in older children due to the risk of allergic reactions.
The doctor recommended carefully choosing the form of medication, emphasizing that drops are only suitable for infants, as using sprays increases the risk of ear infections. For children older than one or two years, diluted children's sprays can be used safely.
