Dr. Jamie Avila, MD, pediatrician at Baylor Scott & White McLane Children’s Medical Center offers solutions in A Simple Solution for Kids’ Colds: Saline Drops.
It’s no secret that kids catch colds — a lot of them. On average, young children battle 10-12 colds a year, leading to countless sniffles and sleepless nights for families. While medications help manage symptoms, new research suggests a surprisingly simple way to shorten the length of colds: saline nasal drops.
How to Recognize the Most Contagious Illnesses
What the Study Found
A recent study, presented at the European Respiratory Society Congress, revealed that using hypertonic saline drops can reduce cold symptoms in kids by two days. Even better, fewer family members in the household got sick when these drops were used.
The study involved 407 children under six, with families taught how to make and administer saline drops. For kids using the drops, symptoms lasted an average of six days, compared to eight days in those who didn’t use them.
How It Works
Our bodies naturally produce hypochlorous acid, a powerful defense against viruses. Hypertonic saline drops provide extra chloride to the nose, boosting the body’s ability to produce more hypochlorous acid to fight off viruses at their source. This helps reduce the virus’s ability to replicate or multiply and can reduce the severity and duration of colds.
Safe and Easy to Use
Saline drops are widely available over the counter. Look for products labeled “extra strength saline” or “hypertonic saline.” Families can also make their own, but it’s crucial to use sterilized water to ensure safety.
In General, Here’s How to Use Them for Children:
- Administer three drops per nostril four to five times daily until symptoms improve.
- Always follow proper hygiene and consult your pediatrician if you have concerns.
Why This Matters
Shortening the duration of a child’s cold by two days means fewer missed school days, less disruption at work for parents and a quicker return to normal life. Plus, by reducing transmission, it helps keep the whole family healthy.
This simple, low-cost solution could make a big impact, especially during cold and flu season. As a pediatrician, I encourage parents to consider this safe, effective option for their little ones.
By Jamie Avila, MD, pediatrician, Baylor Scott & White McLane Children’s Medical Center
