Back to all blogsHow to Use Bulb Syringe for Quick Relief from Stuffy Nose
It can be tough when your little one is congested. As adults, we can grab a tissue, but babies haven't mastered that skill. This is where knowing how to use a bulb syringe comes in handy to give some relief.
Bulb syringes, or nasal aspirators, are those little snot-sucking devices. They help clear a baby’s nasal passages. Using one helps your baby breathe easier, eat, and sleep better.
You might wonder why it's so important to focus on a seemingly simple tool for babies. If your child can breathe easier, they might even sleep more soundly.
Table of Contents:
- Understanding Nasal Congestion in Babies
- Preparing to Use a Bulb Syringe
- How To Use a Bulb Syringe Step-by-Step
- Alternatives and Additional Methods for How to Use Bulb Syringe
- Cleaning Your Bulb Syringe
- How to Use Bulb Syringe and Understanding When to Call a Doctor
- FAQs about how to use bulb syringe
- Conclusion
Understanding Nasal Congestion in Babies
Babies often get stuffy noses. Their tiny nasal passages are easily blocked by mucus. This congestion can interfere with their breathing, especially during feeding and sleeping.
A baby's stuffy nose could stem from various reasons, not just a cold. Think dry air or even allergies, so it's a good idea to use nose drops or saline nose drops.
Why Use a Bulb Syringe?
A bulb suction device is a gentle tool. It is for removing excess mucus from your baby’s nose.
This isn't just about comfort; it's about health. BabyCenter notes clear nasal passages help your baby breathe. This could lead to an overall healthy growth pattern.
Preparing to Use a Bulb Syringe
Before you start, get everything you need like bulb syringes. That way, it is right within reach.
You need a bulb syringe, nasal saline solution, and tissues. It’s all about making this smooth for you and your baby.
Making a Saline Solution
Saline nose solution softens the mucus. You can buy it at the grocery store or make your own salt water solution.
Making the drops saline solution is easy with things already at home. For a homemade solution, mix 1/2 teaspoon of table salt and 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda in 8 ounces of warm tap water.
If your water source is a well, boil the clean water first to sterilize it, then let it cool before use, creating saline nasal drops. Always make a fresh batch daily in a clean jar or covered jar.
How To Use a Bulb Syringe Step-by-Step
Start by preparing your baby. Lay them down with their chin slightly tilted up, possibly using a blanket roll for support.
Use a nose dropper to gently place two or three saline nose drops in each nostril and hold baby still for a little while. Keeping your baby head still during and right after the saline, you may even find a little peace when their head is staying in the place you placed it.
Then, you get a few drops in.
- Squeeze air out of the bulb to get the air out before inserting it.
- Gently place the tip into one nostril, just enough to make a seal.
- Slowly release the bulb to suction mucus out.
Take the suction device out. Then, squeeze mucus onto a tissue. Repeat steps on the other side if they are still congested using the suction bulb.
After Suctioning
After using the saline drops and nose suction, watch your baby. Sometimes the drops will work themselves out to remove mucus.
But other times, bulb suctioning is best. Avoid suctioning or doing bulb suction more than four times a day and make sure to limit suctioning.
It can make it even harder for your little one. You want to help clear mucus so they can breathe easier.
Alternatives and Additional Methods for How to Use Bulb Syringe
If a bulb syringe isn't your thing, there are other methods. A nasal aspirator is an alternative.
Nasal aspirators have a nozzle, tubing, and a mouthpiece. These use your suction to draw out mucus, but don’t worry, a filter keeps everything clean and safe.
It is a great way to pull the mucus out in a safe manner.
Keeping Your Baby Comfortable
Keeping the air moist can help, too. Try a cool-mist humidifier in your child's nose room.
Also, make sure your baby drinks plenty of fluids. Good hydration keeps the mucus thin and easier to clear.
Cleaning Your Bulb Syringe
Cleaning your equipment is very important. If your child isn’t doing well, a contaminated device would only harm them even more.
Clean bulb syringe with warm soapy water after each use. Clean bulb inside by squeezing the bulb while the tip is in warm soapy water, then rinse a few times.
To dry, place the syringe gently with the tip down in a glass. Make sure to keep your dropper clean, and clean daily to stop bacteria or mold.
Cleaning Nasal Aspirators
For nasal aspirators, take them apart. Wash with soap and cup warm water.
You can use a kitchen measuring spoon to mix a new solution. Clean regularly.
Some models let you boil the parts for five minutes to sterilize. Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions, like those from Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center.
How to Use Bulb Syringe and Understanding When to Call a Doctor
Sometimes, home care isn't enough. The trick is knowing the balance.
If your baby has trouble breathing, eating, or sleeping, call the doctor. Also, call if you see signs of an ear infection or a high fever and gently wipe their nose.
Here is when to call your Cincinnati Children's doctor based off of temperature readings:
| Reading Type | When to Call |
|---|---|
| Rectal Readings |
|
Seek medical help when in doubt, a medical center can be of assistance. Knowing how to handle your equipment is crucial and you can get the needed guidance here. All rights reserved by your doctor.
FAQs about how to use bulb syringe
What is the proper way to use a bulb syringe?
To properly use a bulb syringe, first, squeeze air out. Then gently place the tip into your baby's nose and release to suction mucus.
Remove and squeeze out the mucus on a tissue. Repeat as needed.
How do you unclog your ear with a bulb syringe?
A bulb syringe can also help to clear earwax. For clearing ear wax, you need to get a pot or kettle to boil and fill your bulb with 98.6-degree Fahrenheit warm water, tilting the head of your baby so the canal can receive the drops.
Remember to not use this method if the eardrum is damaged, according to doctors.
Do you use bulb syringe on baby mouth or nose first?
Suction the nose first. If you suction the baby's mouth first, and the baby gasps, it may pull the nose mucus into the nose or deeper, thus having negative health benefits.
Can I use a bulb syringe without saline?
It's best to use saline to loosen the mucus first. You might not get as much out otherwise, remember you want to remove mucus the best you can.
Consider using a measuring spoon for accuracy.
Conclusion
Knowing how to use a bulb syringe means giving your baby some relief and to make it easier to breathe easier. You are clearing their stuffy noses. It helps them eat and sleep easier.
By learning when to try a bulb syringe at home you may be able to do it yourself. Just watch your child and decide with wisdom to call in your pediatrician as well.
