And while there are some products on the market (like nasal respirators and professional-grade saline solutions) that are proven to help ease the discomfort, one mum has created her own DIY method for doing the deed.
In a Facebook clip which has since been viewed almost 20 million times, an unnamed woman takes to her three-year-old daughter’s blocked nose with a syringe full of salt water. She distracts the tot with the camera before squirting three loads of the liquid into her nasal cavity.
Clearly feeling much better post irrigation, the baby can be seen smiling and laughing as the mucus drains from her sinuses.
Many were quick to praise the mum for sharing her handy hack with the world.
“Mum is on point!” one user commented. “Had a plan and executed it with purpose. She was quick yet gentle, used the camera as a distraction which worked perfectly. She was calm and reassured baby, hence the happy child… When done mama!! More humane than sucking it out.”
A second added: “I’ve done this before post nasal drop… it’s essential to keep your mouth open otherwise the water goes straight down your throat and you feel like you’re drowning. This baby knows how it’s done!”
But others weren’t as convinced.
“This is not a safe practice,” wrote one critic. “It can lead to choking and aspiration which could result in pneumonia. But what do I know? I’m only a children’s nurse.”
“Be very careful doing anything like this on a child without Maternal Health or GP instructions,” said another. “Too much salt can burn the delicate membranes in noses and throats of young children.”
In short, if you do try this trick at home, proceed with caution.
And remember: if you’re not 100% sure how to help clear the congestion, it’s always best to speak to an expert.
This article originally appeared on Women's Health Australia.
