Patient's question:
Sore throat due to cold. Sore throat, lasting for 3 to 4 days. Previous treatment and effectiveness: Have taken Snake Gland and Fritillaria Fluid. What kind of assistance is desired: Want to get medical assistance...Doctor's answer:
What to do about a stuffy throat with phlegm?1. The respiratory passages in the nasal cavity and oropharynx are too narrow: This is particularly true in infants and young children. Therefore, when the mucous membranes in these areas are slightly infected or irritated, they tend to swell and produce increased secretions, leading to partial blockage of the passages. As a result, the airflow causes a muffled sound.
2. Sensitivity to external substances (or feverish reactions): External substances include milk formula, air, clothing, viruses, bacteria, etc. When the mucous membranes in the nasal cavity and oropharynx encounter these substances, the direct reaction is increased secretions (phlegm) and swelling (blockage).
3. Infants and young children do not swallow saliva effectively: In adults, if there is excessive fluid in the oropharynx, they instinctively swallow it down to keep the throat clear. However, infants or individuals with neurological issues (such as those in a coma or with intellectual disabilities) may have underdeveloped swallowing reflexes. Even when awake, they may easily drool, and during sleep, the fluid may flow backward into the throat and accumulate. As a result, when air flows in and out of the trachea, the mixture of air and liquid produces a "gurgling" breathing sound.
Therefore, if parents notice that their baby has severe nasal congestion or a stuffy throat with phlegm, they should first consult a pediatrician to check for any underlying issues. Additionally, after each diaper change, parents should encourage the baby to swallow a few sips of water to moisten the throat and prevent milk from accumulating in the mouth or forming thick saliva. For severe nasal congestion, covering the baby’s nose and mouth with a warm, damp towel can help. The warm steam will open up the nasal passages, and the breathing sound may worsen temporarily. If necessary, a doctor may prescribe medication to help stabilize the condition. However, the fundamental solution is to wait until the baby grows older, as the nasal and throat passages will become wider and the condition will stabilize effectively.
The above advice is for the question, "What should I do if a newborn has a stuffy throat with phlegm due to cold?" I hope it helps you. Wishing you good health!