If the infant inhaled the nasal crust, physiological seawater nasal spray can be used to clean the nasal cavity, so that the nasal crust can be discharged from the front nostrils. If the scabs are not discharged, the infant’s breathing and mental state can be observed, and no obvious abnormality can be disposed of. If there is no obvious abnormality, no treatment is needed. If the infant chokes, cries, is irritable or even has difficulty in breathing, it is necessary to actively seek medical treatment.
Nasal scabs are usually soft and moist, and when the infant inhales them into the nose, physiologic seawater nasal spray can be used to wash the nose. With effective stimulation, there is a possibility of triggering sneezing to expel the scabs, or lubricating the nasal cavity and then the scabs will flow out with the rinse solution; or a pediatric nasal aspirator should be used to suck out the scabs.
If the scabs are swallowed into the stomach, there is no need for special treatment, but there is a chance of gastrointestinal discomfort, and once symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and fever occur, gastroenterology can be consulted for treatment.
When infants show choking, coughing, crying, irritability or even difficulty in breathing after inhaling nasal scabs, we cannot rule out the risk of nasal scabs being embedded in the throat, and at this time, we need to actively consult the Department of Otorhinolaryngology of the Children’s Hospital, to prevent obstruction of the respiratory tract due to the obstruction of the foreign body and the occurrence of secondary infections.
After the baby has sucked in the nasal crust, we should closely monitor the symptoms of the baby and consult a doctor if there is any discomfort.