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Baby Sling Closeout Special! Extended through May until sold out!
Buy a baby sling for a friend and get one free for yourself or get just one at 50% off.
Buy one get one free Discount code: freesling
Or 50% off your babysling Discount code: halfoff expires: 05/30/08
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"DECONGESTANT NOSE SPRAY"
Suggested uses: Severe nasal congestion, stubborn
nosebleeds.
Decongestant nose sprays can quickly open congested nasal passages caused by
colds, allergies, or sinus infections. I think of these sprays as a "quick-fix" when I am
miserably congested, especially when trying to fall asleep. Decongestant nose sprays are
only for short-term use, though, as there is a "rebound effect" that begins after two or
three days of use.
While generally reserved for older children, there are two circumstances that I have
used these sprays or drops in children younger than two. First, I rarely use them in
infants that are too congested to eat or sleep - this should only be done with the advice of
a physician. Second, stubborn nosebleeds can quickly be stopped with 2 or 3
sprays in the bleeding nostril.
Two forms:
All the major brands (Afrin, Neo-Sinephrine, etc) and
generic store brands come in two basic forms:
12-hour Oxymetazoline 0.05% - for age 6 years and up (Afrin 12 hour, Neo-
Synephrine 12 hour)
4-hour Phenylephrine - This comes in different strengths:
0.125% - for age 2-6 years (Little Noses Pediatric
Formula)
0.25% - for age 6 to 12 years (Neo-Synephrine Mild
Formula, Afrin Children's Pump Mist)
0.5% and 1% - for age 12 and up (Neo-Synephrine
Regular or Extra Strength, Afrin Allergy)
DR. SEARS HELPFUL TIP FOR TREATING COLDS
When I give my children cold medications, I have found that the nasal passages
can become too dry, that's why it is important to use saline nasal spray throughout the
day and a humidifier in the bedroom at night (see "natural cold treatments").
Safety:
Use cautiously under two years of age. Possible rare side
effects are headache, upset stomach and dizziness. If your child has a history of seizures,
high blood pressure, heart disease, thyroid disease or is taking medications for any of
these conditions, consult your doctor before taking this medication. Do not use this
medication for more than three days.
Dosage:
two or three sprays as directed on package.
Do not use for more than three days.
AskDrSears.com is intended to help parents become better informed consumers
of health care. The information presented in this site gives general advice
on parenting and health care. Always consult your doctor for your individual
needs.