Drops for clear snot for a child. Transparent snot in a child, liquid like water. The appearance of clear snot in a baby

One of the most common types of runny nose is clear snot - clear discharge from the nose that can occur in both young children and the elderly. What is the reason for the appearance of such snot? How to treat clear snot in a child? What medications can adults take for this type of runny nose? We will try to answer these and other questions in this article.

The appearance of snot in newborns

Often, clear snot occurs in infants already in the first weeks of life. The baby’s body must adapt to the external conditions in which it finds itself after birth, and the appearance of snot is an adaptation of the nasopharyngeal mucosa to the environment. In medicine, this reaction is called a physiological runny nose. This is not a disease at all, but a normal condition. Parents often worry: what if the child gets sick and the runny nose is not physiological, but real? Finding out is quite simple: a physiological runny nose is not accompanied by a cough or fever, the child’s breathing is practically not difficult, the baby sleeps and eats well. You can stop clear snot by rinsing your nose with salty drops (1 teaspoon of salt per 1 liter of warm boiled water, drop 1 drop into each nostril as needed), it is best to use sea salt. You can also drip saline solution.

Clear snot in a child

Often the cause of clear snot in a child is teething. As you know, the blood supply to the gums and nasopharynx is closely connected, therefore, when the gums swell, the blood flow into the nasal cavity also increases. Accelerating blood flow speeds up the production of mucus in the nose, i.e. there is an excess of it, which comes out of the nose in the form of snot. Naturally, there is no cure for this, because the baby’s teeth should grow, right? You just need to wait out this time, ensuring that you blow the snot out of your nose in a timely manner, avoiding nasal congestion. The temperature may also rise slightly, but this is also normal. You can drip saline or saline into your nose, but you shouldn’t take vasoconstrictor drops from the pharmacy home.

Another common reason that a child has clear sniffles is an allergic reaction. Allergies may be accompanied by rashes, red spots on the body, itching, and watery eyes. As a rule, an allergic runny nose is accompanied by frequent sneezing. First of all, it is necessary to identify the allergen: plant pollen, dust, animal hair, food, etc., then exclude the child’s contact with this allergen. If it is not possible to identify the allergen or a runny nose is accompanied by severe shortness of breath, large swelling of the mucous membrane, then it is unlikely that you will be able to do without taking antiallergic drugs (they should be prescribed by an allergist), usually Claritin, Loratadine, Fenistil, etc.

Viral diseases, such as acute respiratory viral infections or acute respiratory infections, can also cause clear snot. At first, liquid snot flows from the child’s nose; if you do not fight it, it soon becomes thicker and changes color. Thick snot in a child indicates the spread of infection and the onset of inflammation of the mucous membrane of not only the nose, but also the lower respiratory tract. White thick snot indicates the presence of a serious inflammatory process in the child’s body, and yellow and green snot indicates the presence of pus. All this time, a runny nose is accompanied by a significant increase in temperature, sneezing, coughing, sore throat, etc. A visit to the pediatrician is mandatory.

Treatment of clear snot in a child should not begin with pharmaceutical preparations; first, it makes sense to rub the nose with beeswax, vegetable oil with the addition of a couple of drops of essential oil (lavender, eucalyptus, mint). You can also do steam inhalations over decoctions of medicinal herbs (sage, chamomile, linden, mint, etc.). Be sure to clear mucus from the child’s nose, instill saline solution, and help the child blow his nose into a handkerchief.

If the intensity of snot is extremely high and the child’s breathing is very difficult, and rubbing and inhalation do not give the desired effect, then doctors usually prescribe nasal drops, for example, Vibrocil, Nazivin, Nazol Baby, Brizolin. It is also important to moisturize the nasal mucosa; for this, Aquamaris, Otrivin Baby, drops based on sea water, and saline are prescribed. It is recommended to purchase a humidifier that will ensure a normal level of humidity in the children's room.

How to treat adults?

The most common causes of clear snot in adults are viral infections and allergies. In addition to a runny nose, ARVI is manifested by general weakness, fever, coughing, and sneezing. Some people prefer to be treated with traditional medicine, others immediately grab antibiotics, but a runny nose will still have to be treated separately. To treat clear liquid snot in an adult, you can use vasoconstrictor drops, such as Sanorin, Naphthyzin, Vibrocil, Nazivin, Adrianol. If the snot still haunts you, use a 5% solution of collargol or protargol.

If you have allergies, excessive nasal discharge and sneezing are especially bothersome. These symptoms are caused by exposure to an allergen - food, plant pollen, cat hair, etc. First, it is necessary to eliminate the allergen (special attention to diet, woolen carpets underfoot, cats, flowering plants on the street). At the same time, we treat a runny nose with vasoconstrictor drops (don’t forget to see an allergist). If the allergic reaction does not go away, the doctor will prescribe antihistamines.

Among the folk remedies for treating clear snot in children and adults, beet juice (drip into the nose 3-4 times a day), honey solution (dilute honey slightly with water and drip into the nose), warming the nose (freshly boiled eggs or potatoes, wrap in a towel) and apply it to your nose). Such drugs can be used in addition to the main treatment.

Thus, the appearance of clear snot in a child or adult should not frighten or lead to panic. We calmly find out the cause, start doing inhalations, rubbing and nasal drops, and if other symptoms appear, consult a doctor, because a viral infection or allergy requires a more serious approach to treatment. But small children should not be stuffed with serious medications at the first manifestations of a runny nose; all medications can be given to a child only as prescribed by a doctor.

Additional articles on this topic:

Before starting treatment, consult your doctor.

Causes and treatment of clear snot in a child

Transparent snot in a child in most cases is associated with ARVI and does not require specific treatment. The child’s runny nose goes away with recovery. But there is another probable cause of liquid, clear nasal discharge - allergies. In this case, a consultation with an allergist is required, who will prescribe treatment.

Transparent snot as a symptom of ARVI indicates that the immune system has started working. The more mucus produced, the more likely it is that the virus will die in the nose and not spread to the upper and lower respiratory tract. During this period, it is important to prevent the mucous membrane from drying out and thick mucus forming.

What is the cause of clear snot?

There are several factors that can trigger the appearance of clear snot in a child.

Viral infections. Clear snot is the most common respiratory symptom at the initial stage of ARVI. First, there is dryness, itching in the nose and nasopharynx, the child sneezes, a little later congestion appears, and only on the second day of ARVI liquid transparent snot flows. The same symptom can occur with whooping cough, infectious mononucleosis, and viral flying infections - measles, rubella, chickenpox. In this situation, the risk of complications (especially after measles, infectious mononucleosis) is higher.
Teething. The process of teething on average begins at 6 months and ends at 2 years, or even 3 years. During this time, the baby may periodically develop clear snot and excessive drooling. Liquid transparent mucus in the nose is explained by the active blood supply to the gums and nasopharynx during teething.
Allergy. If a child’s clear snot does not go away for a long time, if he does not have a viral infection, there is a high probability of an allergic cause of a runny nose. In this situation, it is necessary to eliminate potential household allergens and see if the picture of the runny nose has changed.
Dry and hot air. If the air in the room, especially during the heating season, is dry and hot, the mucous membrane will use “self-defense” methods: liquid mucus will be released from the nose, the consistency of which resembles water.

Treatment methods

How to treat clear snot in children? First of all, the child should be examined by a pediatrician. Most often, he also prescribes treatment, since in most cases a runny nose is a symptom of ARVI. If a viral infection is ruled out, the attending physician will recommend being examined by an otolaryngologist and an allergist.

For ARVI

The treatment regimen for a child with ARVI is approximately the same and is carried out according to a protocol approved by the World Health Organization (WHO). A runny nose in itself cannot be treated as a symptom. Nasal discharge, if it is clear and liquid, indicates that the mucous membrane is coping well with the virus.

Antipyretic. ARVI and influenza, volatile viral infections rarely occur without fever. If the temperature is above 38 °C, the doctor will recommend antipyretic drugs based on paracetamol or ibuprofen in an age-appropriate dosage. High temperature leads to dehydration of the body and drying out of the mucous membrane, so liquid discharge from the nose on the 3rd or 4th day may turn into thick transparent snot or acquire a cloudy white, yellowish, greenish tint.
Expectorant and mucolytic drugs. Prescribed if a cough appears during ARVI. Often, with abundant liquid snot, the cough is physiological in nature. During sleep, liquid flows down the back wall of the nasopharynx, enters the pharynx, irritates the mucous membrane and causes a cough. This symptom is not relieved by expectorants and mucolytic drugs; usually the cough goes away after waking up, and the child does not cough during the day.
Antiviral. Prescribed orally or locally. The most commonly used nasal antiviral drops are “Grippferon”, “Nazoferon”. Oxolinic ointment is used for preventive purposes.
Homeopathic. Prescribed for the complex treatment of acute respiratory viral infections internally and locally. The most famous homeopathic nasal drops: Euphorbium Compositum, Delufen, Rinitol. Thuja oil is actively used, which well moisturizes the mucous membrane and prevents the formation of thick mucus.
Features of care. With ARVI, natural recovery occurs much faster if the child is provided with normal drinking conditions and moist and cool air. If these conditions are not met, liquid snot quickly turns into thick snot, nasal breathing becomes difficult, and the risk of spreading the virus and the addition of a secondary bacterial infection increases.
Nasal rinsing. A mandatory procedure for the treatment of a runny nose of any nature: viral, fungal, bacterial. Nasal rinsing is not prescribed only for allergic rhinitis, since it can lead to even greater congestion and will not provide a therapeutic effect. Rinse the nose with pharmaceutical saline solutions in the form of sprays: “Salin”, “Aqualor”, “Aqua Maris”. You can use saline solution or make a saline solution at home. After the rinsing procedure, the doctor may prescribe Pinosol or Evamenol to soften the mucous membrane and facilitate nasal breathing.

Allergic runny nose

Allergic rhinitis in children can be seasonal, associated with flowering plants. Most often this happens in spring and early summer. But also allergic (vasomotor) runny nose can occur throughout the year, regardless of the season. In addition to clear snot, the child may experience the following symptoms:

redness, rashes on the skin;
itching in the nose, eyes, ears;
frequent sneezing;
nasal congestion.

Room hygiene. Allergic rhinitis can be provoked by: mites living in household dust; clothing dyes, washing powder, household chemicals; hygiene products; tobacco smoke; pet hair; medications.
Hypoallergenic diet. Citrus fruits, chocolate, fish, seafood, honey, eggs, smoked meats, and canned food are excluded.
Antihistamines. These medications block the effect of the hormone histamine on the mucous membranes, thereby eliminating itching, swelling, nasal congestion, and excessive discharge. Second and third generation antihistamines are usually prescribed: Loratadine, Erius, Claritin, Zyrtec, Telfast, Gismanal and other drugs in syrup and tablets. The most commonly prescribed nasal antihistamines are: Allergodil, Ifiral, Cromosol, Histimet, Sanorin.
Vasoconstrictor drugs. Prescribed for prolonged difficult nasal breathing. The most commonly used are: “Nazol Baby”, “Vibrocil”, “Otrivin”, “Galazolin”, “Olint”, “Tizin”, “Farmazolin”. Among nasal vasoconstrictors, there are drugs of strong and mild action. Positive reviews about Vibrocil drops, which have not only a vasoconstrictor, but also an antiallergic effect.
Hormonal drugs for local treatment. These include nasal sprays. They are prescribed only when nasal congestion due to allergic rhinitis cannot be eliminated by any other means. Avamis and Nasonex are considered safe for children. Use strictly as prescribed by a doctor. As with vasoconstrictors, the effect of hormonal sprays occurs quickly, but addiction to it also quickly occurs.

Transparent snot in a baby

First of all, ARVI is excluded. If there are no other respiratory symptoms (cough, high temperature), most likely the baby's clear snot is a reaction to teething. During this period, the doctor will recommend protecting the child from contact with people. Against the backdrop of teething and a weakened immune system, the baby can easily catch a viral infection. Clear snot during teething cannot be treated in any way. The pediatrician will recommend daily nasal hygiene to prevent drying out of the mucous membrane and the formation of dry crusts. If an infant is diagnosed with ARVI, measles, rubella, chickenpox, whooping cough and other infections, the pediatrician prescribes appropriate drug treatment.

Read more about the treatment of a runny nose in a baby in our other article.

If your child has clear snot and no fever or other respiratory symptoms, this may indicate allergic rhinitis. Also, in children under three years of age, especially in the first year of life, it is necessary to exclude teething. In other cases, clear snot is a sign of a viral infection, which is accompanied by fever, cough, redness in the throat, headache, and general intoxication.

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If a child develops liquid, transparent snot, this is a clear sign of an acute respiratory infection or an incipient allergy. Is it necessary to treat such snot? Nasal mucus in a child is produced in the same way as in an adult and does not pose any threat. The appearance of clear snot indicates that the body is beginning to protect itself from the effects of the virus.

Mucus secretion occurs when the body fights viruses and allergens, preventing them from spreading. When does a baby’s clear discharge need to be treated, and in what cases can his condition be alleviated with the help of nasal hygiene? Let's try to figure this out.

Causes of clear snot

Adaptation to new living conditions

A baby may develop a runny nose immediately after birth. In this way, the body reacts to the emergence of new living conditions and adapts to them. Transparent snot can appear due to a long stay in the womb or indicate disturbances during labor.

A runny nose can occur when exposed to certain factors that create unpleasant conditions for the child’s nasopharynx. The nasal mucosa dries out due to too low air humidity, reacting to this with clear liquid secretions that resemble water. Since the baby does not yet know how to blow his nose, clear snot begins to accumulate in his nose, making it difficult for him to breathe. Parents should constantly remove the resulting clear discharge.

Teething

What does clear snot mean in a child? They can be triggered by teething. This is explained by the fact that the processes of blood supply to the gums and nasopharynx are closely related. When blood rushes to the gums, in this case it also flows to the nasopharynx area. When blood flow increases, the production of mucus in the nose accelerates, contributing to the appearance of a runny nose. It is impossible to fight this phenomenon, so you need to wait out such symptoms, eliminating the clear liquid and avoiding nasal congestion.

Allergic reactions

Quite often, clear mucus occurs due to allergic reactions. This is especially true in the spring during the active flowering of plants. Allergies manifest themselves as follows:

clear nasal discharge;
redness of the eyes;
rash and redness on the body;
skin itching;
swelling of the mucous membranes of the eyes.

With an allergic rhinitis, a child sneezes very often. Parents should find out what is the source of the allergy. Usually, after contact with an allergen, a reaction occurs in the form of a runny nose and other symptoms. Treatment of such a runny nose involves protecting the child from contact with the allergen. In particularly severe cases (swelling, shortness of breath, other external signs), the child should be given antihistamines.

Viral diseases

Another common cause of clear snot in a child is viral diseases. At the beginning of the development of the disease, liquid transparent snot begins to flow from the baby’s nose, which then noticeably thickens. If such discharge is white and not transparent, then this indicates the development of inflammation and the spread of infection in the body. Viral diseases must be treated comprehensively.

Transparent snot in a child: how to treat it?

Before treating clear snot in a child, you need to show him to a doctor, who will find out the exact cause of its occurrence. Regardless of the etiology of the runny nose, its treatment necessarily includes the procedure of cleansing and rinsing the nasal canals.

Washing baby's nose

If a child has snot that resembles water, a nasal aspirator is used to clear it from the nose. If the mucus is too thick and viscous, then it must first be liquefied with saline or a decoction of medicinal herbs, using St. John's wort, chamomile or sage for its preparation. For these purposes, you can also purchase a pharmaceutical saline solution:

A few drops of decoction or freshly prepared solution are instilled into each nasal canal, after which the diluted secretion is sucked out using an aspirator.

Any procedures carried out using nasal drops or sprays are carried out only after thorough cleansing of the nasal passages. When a small child learns to blow his nose on his own, he will need to be constantly reminded to do it himself.

Treatment of a runny nose with acute respiratory infections or acute respiratory viral infections

Liquid transparent snot in a child who has fallen ill with a viral infection or acute respiratory infection, after some time is replaced by thick discharge. Treatment of such a runny nose should be carried out only with strict adherence to bed rest.

A runny nose of any etiology, which is accompanied by the release of a transparent mucous secretion, should be treated with vasoconstrictors (Nazivin, Nazol, Rinonorm, Vibrocil, Naphthyzin, Galazolin, Sanorin). Such medications alleviate the patient’s condition and reduce the amount of mucous secretion only for a while. They cannot cure a runny nose. It is recommended to use them for no more than seven days.

Treatment of liquid mucous discharge during the first three days after the onset of the disease is carried out using human interferon preparations. These include Grippferon and Interferon. Clear snot in the form of water can be treated by inhalation using a nebulizer charged with an interferon solution.

Infectious rhinitis is usually treated with immunomodulatory drugs. Sinupret is considered the most effective - a drug that consists of natural ingredients.

With ARVI, natural recovery usually occurs faster if the child is provided with access to cool and fresh air, as well as a normal drinking regime. If such conditions are not met, liquid snot becomes thick after a very short time, making it difficult to breathe through the nose and increasing the risk of spreading the virus, as well as the addition of a secondary bacterial infection.

Treatment of allergic rhinitis

If a child’s liquid transparent snot occurs as a result of an allergic reaction, then it is necessary to find out which allergen contributed to its development.

Treatment of allergic rhinitis is carried out with antihistamines in compliance with strict dosages. Before doing this, you should definitely consult an allergist, who will select the right drug. An advanced disease can cause the development of bronchial asthma.

Thus, clear snot in a child may indicate either the presence of an infection in the body or be a reaction to a certain allergen. The baby needs to be shown to a doctor who will conduct an examination, make the correct diagnosis and prescribe appropriate treatment.

How and how to treat clear liquid snot in a child, what drops to use?

Liquid transparent snot in a child is a symptom of ARVI, which does not require any specific therapy. This nasal flow recedes as the child recovers. There is another root cause for the spread of such a runny nose - an allergic reaction. When such a sign of exposure to an allergen appears, it is necessary to show the baby to a doctor, who will diagnose the root cause of the clear discharge and prescribe the optimal treatment.

Why is clear snot flowing?

A number of reasons have been identified that directly affect the appearance of clear snot in a child.

Moreover, some positions from this series do not require any therapy and are a normal reaction of the body:

Teething. Milk teeth begin to erupt at the 6th month of a baby’s life, and end at 2 years, sometimes at 3. The flow of such snot during this period is associated with the fact that there is an active blood supply in the gums and nasopharyngeal area.
Dry or hot air in the room where the baby is growing provokes the activation of protective processes. In the nasal cavity, the processes of secretion of colorless liquid mucus are activated, which is designed to protect the nasal and nasopharyngeal area from drying out and cracking.

Viral infections. The initial stage of development of ARVI is often manifested by a flow of clear snot. In this case, first there is the appearance of dryness in the nasal and nasopharyngeal area, the baby begins to sneeze frequently, and then these symptoms are replaced by nasal congestion. The next day, copious colorless discharge begins to flow, similar in consistency to water. Similar symptoms can occur with whooping cough, chicken pox, infectious mononucleosis, measles, and rubella. It is worth considering that such diseases increase the risk of developing all kinds of complications, so if the snot does not go away for a long time, you should urgently consult a doctor.
Allergic reaction. If a child's clear mucus does not go away for a long period of time, and he does not have other symptoms characteristic of an infection caused by viruses, he may be suffering from an allergic reaction. In this case, the child should be shown to a doctor to diagnose household allergens. After eliminating them, you need to focus on whether the runny nose has gone away.

Depending on the cause that caused the appearance of such snot, the methods of its treatment will differ.

Therapeutic techniques

It is necessary to treat clear snot after the cause of its appearance has been diagnosed. To do this, you need to contact your pediatrician. If the clear mucus is caused by a cold, your doctor will prescribe appropriate treatment. If there is another reason, the pediatrician may send the child to see an allergist or otolaryngologist.

How to treat ARVI?

If the cause of a runny nose is ARVI, the doctor prescribes medications that will help the child cope with the cold. Depending on its symptoms, the following medications may be prescribed:

Antiviral drugs can be prescribed for both internal and external use. Most often, Grippferon drops are prescribed for a runny nose; some pediatricians also actively prescribe Nazoferon. As a preventive measure, oxolicin ointment can be prescribed.

Homeopathic medicines are prescribed for complex treatment of acute respiratory viral infection. Most often, Rhinitol drops are used, and Euphorbium Compositum and Delufen can also be used. Thuja oil can be used as a preparation for local treatment, which actively moisturizes the mucous membrane and blocks the thickening of mucus. For local treatment, drop 1 drop of oil into each nostril and then press against the outer wall.

Medicines for rinsing the nasal passages. For rhinitis caused by fungi, viruses and bacteria, it is necessary to rinse your nose. For rinsing, solutions based on sea salt are prescribed: Aqua Maris, Salin, Aqualor. You can also use a sodium chloride solution or make your own saline liquid at home. To eliminate the possibility of drying out of the mucous membrane, after rinsing the nasal passages must be treated with Pinosol or Evamenol.

Antipyretic medications are prescribed when there is a temperature above 38 degrees. Among the drugs, children are prescribed those whose composition is based on paracetamol or ibuprofen. It is worth considering that if there is a fever on the 3-4th day of illness, the liquid snot thickens and acquires a greenish or whitish tint. This is due to the fact that the body begins to dehydrate, and the mucous membrane of the nasopharynx begins to dry out.

Mucolytics and expectorants. This treatment is prescribed when there is a cough. The fact is that with a runny nose, the cough is of a physiological nature. When a person is in a lying position, for example, when falling asleep, mucus flows down the nasopharyngeal wall, contributing to irritation of the pharyngeal mucosa and causing coughing.

To make the recovery process faster, children must be provided with special care. To do this, the child needs to be provided with plenty of drinking water, and also placed in a room with humidified cool air and a comfortable temperature. If the above conditions are not met, a runny nose will quickly thicken, and nasal breathing will be difficult. At the same time, the risk of developing dangerous complications and secondary infection increases.

How to cure allergic rhinitis?

You can recognize an allergic runny nose by noticing several specific symptoms. These include:

skin redness;
the appearance of a rash;
spread of itching sensations in the nose, ears, eyes;
rapid breathing;
nasal congestion.

How to treat clear snot in a child with allergies:

Medicines that have a vasoconstricting effect are recommended for prolonged difficulty breathing through the nose. Basically, one of the following drops is recommended: Galazolin, Vibrocil, Nazol Baby, and many children are prescribed medications: Otrivin, Farmazolin, Tizin, Olint. For clear snot, children should drop one drop of the drug into each nostril.

Antihistamines are necessary to stop the action of the hormone histamine on the mucous membranes. Thanks to this, the effect of the drug helps eliminate itching, swelling, nasal congestion, and mucous discharge. Most often, children are prescribed Zyrtec, Telfast, Claritin. In addition to these drugs, Loratadine, Erius, and Gismanal have proven themselves well. It is also recommended to drip nasal medications: Allergodil, Histimet, Ifiral, Kromosol, Sanorin.

Hormonal medications are used for local treatment. They are prescribed only in situations where it is impossible to get rid of a runny nose in other ways. Nasonex and Avamis are safe for children. You cannot use such drops for a long time, as they are addictive.

Also, if an allergy causes a runny nose like water, you must follow a diet excluding citrus fruits, chocolate products, fish, seafood, eggs, smoked products, and canned food. During treatment, it is necessary to remove the allergen and carefully observe the hygiene of the room in which the baby grows.

The appearance of clear snot in a baby

If a similar runny nose appears in a baby, first of all it is necessary to exclude the presence of a cold. In the absence of other characteristic ARVI symptoms, the cause of a runny nose is most likely teething. Most often, this reaction of the body occurs in children from six months to two years. In some cases this period is extended to three years. This kind of runny nose is periodic; it can last a week or 2 weeks, then the symptoms subside. Specific treatment is usually not prescribed; during this period the doctor recommends:

carry out hygienic measures to rinse the nasal passages every day to eliminate the risk of drying out the mucous membrane;
protect newborns from contact with people, since weakened immunity makes it easy to catch a viral infection;
humidify the air in the room where the baby is growing.

If infants are diagnosed with rubella, chickenpox, ARVI, measles, whooping cough, the doctor recommends that they undergo appropriate treatment, after which the snot will go away along with the rest of the symptoms.

If clear liquid flows from the nose even after treatment, it means that the therapy was chosen incorrectly, and the child should be shown to a doctor as soon as possible.

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Ekaterina Rakitina

Dr. Dietrich Bonhoeffer Klinikum, Germany

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Article last updated: 05/07/2019

For an adult, a runny nose is not a big problem. In most cases, we know that the snot will go away quickly; it is important to regularly blow your nose and instill vasoconstrictor medications to ease breathing. A common runny nose caused by a viral infection goes away in 5–7 days. For a one-year-old child, everything is not so simple. Typically, children at 1 year old cannot yet blow their nose on their own (with rare exceptions), and it is still difficult for them to switch to mouth breathing if their nasal passages are congested. Therefore, they have a hard time withstanding a common runny nose.

The baby becomes whiny and irritable.
Difficult nasal breathing prevents the child from eating and sleep is disturbed.
A runny nose irritates the delicate skin around the mouth and nose, causing a burning sensation.
In the absence of timely treatment, complications may develop in the form of otitis media and sinusitis.

Before treating snot in a child, you should consult a pediatrician.

What diseases can cause snot?

Most often, the appearance of snot in a child aged 1 year is associated with an acute respiratory viral infection (ARVI). Snot appears suddenly, it is liquid and transparent. This is how the child’s body tries to cope with viruses by washing them away from the mucous membrane of the nasal passages. Before fluid appears from the nose, dryness and burning in the nose and sneezing may occur. This indicates a viral attack of mucosal cells. There is no need to treat a runny nose of a viral nature, and there is no specific remedy against viruses that cause respiratory diseases.

It happens that a bacterial infection can accompany a viral runny nose. This occurs due to a decrease in the body’s protective functions and unformed immunity in children aged 1 year. Also, a bacterial runny nose can appear when you have scarlet fever, measles or diphtheria. Treatment of these diseases should be immediate and only under the supervision of a doctor. With a bacterial runny nose, the snot becomes yellowish or green in color, becomes thick, and is difficult to separate. A bacterial runny nose can be cured with the help of antibacterial drugs.

Another common cause of snot in a child is allergies. Allergic rhinitis is not associated with viruses or bacteria, but occurs in response to the presence of an allergen (allergens) in the baby's life. This type of runny nose manifests itself as a profuse flow from the nose. The liquid is transparent, viscous. More often it occurs together with allergic conjunctivitis. The production of a large volume of snot during a runny nose is aimed at washing away allergens from the mucous membrane. As soon as contact with the allergen stops, the runny nose disappears. Treatment of snot for allergies comes down to identifying the allergen and excluding it from the child’s environment.

A runny nose can occur when a foreign object enters the nose. This phenomenon occurs frequently among young children. These can be beads, toy parts, peas or beans, batteries and many others. etc. The mechanism of such a runny nose is the body’s desire to wash away a foreign object and protect the mucous membrane from irritation. In this case, snot will be released only from the nostril in which the foreign object is located. They may be transparent at the initial stage, with an admixture of pus and blood in the future, especially if the object has sharp edges and damages the mucous membrane. Treatment in this case should be carried out by an otolaryngologist. Using instruments, he will remove the object and prescribe additional therapy if necessary.

Principles of treating runny nose in young children

Most pediatric doctors say that it is not advisable to treat snot in a 1-year-old child with medications. And this makes common sense. A runny nose is a protective reaction of the body aimed at neutralizing and eliminating viruses or other agents that provoke this disease.

The composition of snot is water, mucin protein and salts. The liquid state allows you to wash away viruses from the surface of the mucosa and create a protective film on it. Mucin can have a destructive effect on the viral cell membrane. Therefore, the more viruses, the more snot is produced and the thicker it becomes.

It is possible to cure a runny nose in a one-year-old child without the use of medications if its appearance is a symptom of an acute respiratory disease. To do this, you need to create several conditions.

1. The air that a sick child breathes should be moist and cool. This will help avoid drying out the mucous membranes. To do this, you need to ventilate the room more often, turn on the humidifier, or hang wet diapers around the room.

The mucous membranes of our body are designed in such a way that in order to carry out their functions they must always be moist. When drying out, the protective functions of the mucous membrane weaken, which facilitates the introduction and proliferation of viruses in the cells of the body.

Moisturizing is required directly by the mucous membrane of the nasal passages. A great way to fulfill this condition is to irrigate the nose with saline solution. To prepare the solution at home, you will need a liter of boiled water and a teaspoon of salt (table or sea), which must be mixed and instilled into each nostril, 1-2 drops several times a day.
Regularly clearing the nose of snot and crusts. If a child of 1 year already knows how to blow his nose, then, as necessary, you need to ask him to “blow” the snot into a napkin or sink.

Many parents do not know how to properly “blow” their child’s nose. Under no circumstances should you pinch your baby’s nostrils with a handkerchief or napkin. This will create high pressure in the nasal passages and mucus will enter the ear canals, which can cause inflammation of the middle ear (otitis media).

When blowing your nose, you need to close only one nostril (preferably with your finger), and through the other the child should blow out the contents of the nose. Repeat the same with the second nostril. It is best to carry out this procedure over a sink so that nothing disturbs the baby, and the snot can be washed off immediately.

If you blow your nose into a tissue, it is better to use disposable ones and throw them away immediately. When using tissue handkerchiefs, the viruses along with the secretions remain there for a long time, and they may re-enter the mucous membranes.

Treatment of runny nose with medications

If you don’t want to prepare solutions for moistening your nose yourself, you can purchase ready-made ones at the pharmacy. Usually these are drops based on sea water. These include Aqualor Baby, Salin, Aquamaris, etc. They can be used for a long time, the drugs are absolutely harmless and do not cause side effects.

It is important to remember that children under 2 years of age cannot be treated with nasal sprays for a runny nose! Even if you bought the drug in the form of a spray, unscrew the spray mechanism and draw up drops with a pipette!

In rare cases, the doctor may prescribe vasoconstrictor drops (Nazivin, Otrivin Baby, Naphthyzin, Tizin, etc.). They must be used with caution. Drugs in this group can dry out the nasal mucosa, which makes it vulnerable to viruses and bacteria. Vasoconstrictor drops are addictive. Treatment with them should not exceed more than 5 days.

For viral infections, the doctor may prescribe drops with an immunomodulatory effect: Grippferon, Nazoferon, Derinat. Their action is aimed at increasing the body's defenses in the fight against viruses. However, there are very contradictory reviews among doctors regarding the effectiveness and appropriateness of their use.

Treating your baby's snot with antibacterial drops is strictly prohibited! Antibiotics are used only in case of bacterial rhinitis; for other types they will only cause harm!

How to prevent snot

If you follow simple rules, you can prevent the appearance of snot or reduce its occurrence to a minimum.

Strengthen and strengthen your baby's immunity from the first months of life.
Dress your child according to the weather. Do not dress your baby too warmly and vice versa. Particular attention should be paid to shoes. The child's feet should not sweat or get cold.
During seasonal ARVI epidemics, do not appear with your child in crowded places.
Moisten the nasal mucosa with saline solution during the heating season and during outbreaks of respiratory infections.
Before going outside in cold weather, lubricate your nasal passages with Oxolinic ointment.
Make sure your baby is eating properly.

Treating a runny nose in infants is vital. To do this, you do not need to have a full first aid kit of medications or spend a lot of money on their purchase. Most often, treatment comes down to creating a favorable environment for the patient and nasal hygiene.

A number of reasons have been identified that directly affect the appearance of clear snot in a child.

Moreover, some positions from this series do not require any therapy and are a normal reaction of the body:

Teething. Milk teeth begin to erupt at the 6th month of a baby’s life, and end at 2 years, sometimes at 3. The flow of such snot during this period is associated with the fact that there is an active blood supply in the gums and nasopharyngeal area.
Dry or hot air in the room where the baby is growing provokes the activation of protective processes. In the nasal cavity, the processes of secretion of colorless liquid mucus are activated, which is designed to protect the nasal and nasopharyngeal area from drying out and cracking.

Viral infections. The initial stage of development of ARVI is often manifested by a flow of clear snot. In this case, first there is the appearance of dryness in the nasal and nasopharyngeal area, the baby begins to sneeze frequently, and then these symptoms are replaced by nasal congestion. The next day, copious colorless discharge begins to flow, similar in consistency to water. Similar symptoms can occur with whooping cough, chicken pox, infectious mononucleosis, measles, and rubella. It is worth considering that such diseases increase the risk of developing all kinds of complications, so if the snot does not go away for a long time, you should urgently consult a doctor.
Allergic reaction. If a child's clear mucus does not go away for a long period of time, and he does not have other symptoms characteristic of an infection caused by viruses, he may be suffering from an allergic reaction. In this case, the child should be shown to a doctor to diagnose household allergens. After eliminating them, you need to focus on whether the runny nose has gone away.

Depending on the cause that caused the appearance of such snot, the methods of its treatment will differ.

Therapeutic techniques

How to treat ARVI?

If the cause of a runny nose is ARVI, the doctor prescribes medications that will help the child cope with the cold. Depending on its symptoms, the following medications may be prescribed:

Antiviral drugs can be prescribed for both internal and external use. Most often, Grippferon drops are prescribed for a runny nose; some pediatricians also actively prescribe Nazoferon. As a preventive measure, oxolinic ointment can be prescribed.

Homeopathic medicines are prescribed for complex treatment of acute respiratory viral infection. Most often, Rhinitol drops are used, and Euphorbium Compositum and Delufen can also be used. Thuja oil can be used as a preparation for local treatment, which actively moisturizes the mucous membrane and blocks the thickening of mucus. For local treatment, drop 1 drop of oil into each nostril and then press against the outer wall.

Medicines for rinsing the nasal passages. For rhinitis caused by fungi, viruses and bacteria, it is necessary to rinse your nose. For rinsing, solutions based on sea salt are prescribed: Aqua Maris, Salin, Aqualor. You can also use a sodium chloride solution or make your own saline liquid at home. To eliminate the possibility of drying out of the mucous membrane, after rinsing the nasal passages must be treated with Pinosol or Evamenol.

Antipyretic medications are prescribed when there is a temperature above 38 degrees. Among the drugs, children are prescribed those whose composition is based on paracetamol or ibuprofen. It is worth considering that if there is a fever on the 3-4th day of illness, the liquid snot thickens and acquires a greenish or whitish tint. This is due to the fact that the body begins to dehydrate, and the mucous membrane of the nasopharynx begins to dry out.

Mucolytics and expectorants. This treatment is prescribed when there is a cough. The fact is that coughing is of a physiological nature. When a person is in a lying position, for example, when falling asleep, mucus flows down the nasopharyngeal wall, contributing to irritation of the pharyngeal mucosa and causing coughing.

How to cure allergic rhinitis?

You can recognize an allergic runny nose by noticing several specific symptoms. These include:

skin redness;
the appearance of a rash;
spread of itching sensations in the nose, ears, eyes;
rapid breathing;
nasal congestion.

How to treat clear snot in a child with allergies:

Medicines that have a vasoconstricting effect are recommended for prolonged difficulty breathing through the nose. Basically, one of the following drops is recommended: Galazolin, Vibrocil, Nazol Baby, and many children are prescribed medications: Otrivin, Farmazolin, Tizin, Olint. For clear snot, children should drop one drop of the drug into each nostril.

Antihistamines are necessary to stop the action of the hormone histamine on the mucous membranes. Thanks to this, the effect of the drug helps eliminate itching, swelling, nasal congestion, and mucous discharge. Most often, children are prescribed Zyrtec, Telfast, Claritin. In addition to these drugs, Loratadine, Erius, and Gismanal have proven themselves well. It is also recommended to drip nasal medications: Allergodil, Histimet, Ifiral, Kromosol, Sanorin.

Hormonal medications are used for local treatment. They are prescribed only in situations where it is impossible to get rid of a runny nose in other ways. Nasonex and Avamis are safe for children. You cannot use such drops for a long time, as they are addictive.

The appearance of clear snot in a baby

carry out hygienic measures to rinse the nasal passages every day to eliminate the risk of drying out the mucous membrane;
protect newborns from contact with people, since weakened immunity makes it easy to catch a viral infection;
humidify the air in the room where the baby is growing.

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When liquid and clear discharge appears from a child’s nose, most parents immediately begin to look for a remedy for a runny nose in the home medicine cabinet. As a rule, the medicine cabinet contains vasoconstrictor drugs that relieve the symptom of nasal congestion or complex drugs that have an antimicrobial effect. This treatment tactic will not bring the desired result, and may even cause harm.

In order to cure liquid snot in a child, you should first find out the reason for its appearance, or rather, what caused the increased secretion of the mucous membrane - a virus, allergy or bacteria.

The nasal mucosa constantly produces a small amount of liquid and transparent mucus, which cleanses the nasal cavity of small particles and dust that have penetrated with the air, preventing them from entering the lower respiratory tract. Nasal mucus contains various proteins that have a protective function and neutralize bacteria, viruses, and allergens.

Since the nasal cavity is an ideal route for infection to enter the body, snot becomes the first protective reaction of the immune system. Based on the composition of nasal secretions, you can determine what triggered the disease. So, in case of a viral infection, the analysis will show a high content of leukocytes, in case of allergic rhinitis, eosinophils will be found in the nasal mucus, and against bacteria, the body produces neutrophils - proteins, thanks to which the snot acquires a greenish tint. You can treat a runny nose only by knowing the cause of its occurrence and choosing the appropriate treatment.

From which we can conclude that excessive flow of nasal mucus is not a disease, but the body’s reaction to an allergen or infection. And since snot, as it turns out, is our allies in the fight against infection, the treatment is not to stop this flow, but to maintain the ability of the mucous membrane to constantly secrete new secretions, and clear the nasal passages of what has already been used up.

Causes of liquid snot

Liquid transparent snot can appear for several reasons, after determining which the doctor will prescribe the correct treatment.

In most cases, liquid and clear snot occurs due to a viral infection that has entered the nasal cavity due to decreased immunity due to a cold or hypothermia. For the first time, nasal mucus is clear and liquid like water for 2–3 days. With an increase in the production of leukocytes, the mucus becomes thicker and may become cloudy, but it is during this period that snot has the greatest antiviral effect.

The allergy is also accompanied by copious discharge of liquid and clear snot. Allergic rhinitis can be triggered by animal fur, dust, pollen, as well as tobacco smoke and city smog. As a rule, in addition to a runny nose, an allergy sufferer is identified by red, watery eyes, a puffy face, sneezing and a severely stuffy nose.

In children of the first year of life, during teething and the associated decrease in immunity, watery snot may also occur. It is not worth treating such a runny nose with medications, since this is a physiological condition. However, in order to prevent excess moisture from becoming a breeding ground for bacteria, it is necessary to promptly clear the mucus from the nose and moisten the cavities with salt drops.

We should also not forget about another possible reason for excessive nasal secretion in children - the presence of a foreign object in the nasal passage. Often, while playing, children push small parts of toys into their noses, which leads to constant irritation of the cilia of the mucous membrane. In response to irritation, a large amount of clear mucus is produced in order to push the foreign object out of the nose in the same way as dust or small particles inhaled with air. Conventional treatment of a runny nose does not lead to improvement, since the cause has not been identified. Therefore, when diagnosing a runny nose in a child, the doctor is simply obliged to conduct a rhinoscopy to rule out such a cause of a runny nose in a child.

Treatment methods

Viral runny nose

So, having determined that the cause of the runny nose is a virus or an allergy, the doctor prescribes treatment. With the viral etiology of the runny nose, the method on which the treatment is based is, as mentioned above, maintaining the mucous membrane in a moist state and removing waste secretions.

There is no need to treat a child for viruses; the body can handle it itself. To maintain the functioning of the mucous membrane, you should clean the nasal cavities using an aspirator, after moistening the mucous membrane with saline drops, for example, Morimer, Aqua Maris, Rinosol or saline solution.

In order for the treatment to be successful, without being complicated by the addition of bacteria, the air in the room should be humidified and purified, preventing the mucous membrane from drying out. To do this, it is enough to ventilate the room and carry out wet cleaning. It is much more convenient to use an ultrasonic humidifier. This treatment involves drinking plenty of fluids, daily walks in the fresh air, and excluding fried and fatty foods from the menu.

Many parents think that this is not enough to cure a runny nose, however, the period during which the body overcomes the virus is about a week. During this time, antibodies are produced that destroy viral cells and no medicine can replace or speed up this process. In very severe cases, when the child’s immune system is weakened, or when a viral disease resolves with complications, doctors may prescribe medications with interferon, which act as an adjuvant to fight the viral infection. If you often treat a simple runny nose with antiviral drugs, the child’s own immunity begins to lose ground as it gets used to outside help.

Allergic rhinitis

If the symptoms indicate an allergic etiology of the runny nose, you should not treat it yourself under any circumstances. First of all, you should consult a doctor, allergist or otolaryngologist for diagnosis. If an allergy is confirmed, it is necessary to limit the child’s contact with the suspected allergen.

Allergic rhinitis should be treated only according to a doctor’s regimen, using antihistamines and local drops that prevent an increase in vascular permeability. The list of medications can include vitamin complexes appropriate for the baby’s age.

Transparent snot in an adult, which can have a different consistency, is a common problem that occurs not only against the background of a cold, but also with allergies and after a long stay in the cold.

To get rid of a symptom, it is necessary to establish its true cause, since there can be many provoking factors. If clear nasal discharge appears, you can try to get rid of it on your own, but if you suspect a secondary infection or a severe allergic reaction, you should not delay a visit to the doctor. This can provoke the development of much more dangerous complications.

All the reasons that cause clear snot can be divided into two categories - the introduction of pathogenic microorganisms (viruses and bacteria) into the body through the nasal mucosa and allergic reactions.

Physiology

The physiological reaction is not dangerous and is manifested by the discharge of clear mucus from the nose after exercise or eating hot food.

During vigorous activity, a person’s pulse quickens, sweat production increases, and blood vessels dilate - as a result, the body clears secretions from the nose to fully nourish the mucous tissue with oxygen.

There is also no reason to panic if transparent snot appears after a long stay in the cold - the blood vessels have narrowed, and when a person gets into the heat, his body warms up, the capillaries expand again, reacting to this by releasing a large amount of secretion.

Allergy

It is worth paying attention to abundant liquid transparent snot when its appearance appears seasonally, for example, in autumn or spring. A provoking factor in the development of allergic rhinitis can be plant pollen during flowering, street or house dust, pet hair, poplar fluff, and others.

If such rhinitis occurs all year round, it is worth thinking about the irritating factor that is constantly nearby - these are bed and dust mites, food and medications, household chemicals, detergents and perfumes.

Pathology variant

The most common cause of clear snot is a respiratory infection.

We are always talking about the initial stage, when the disease is not accompanied by other symptoms, and on the second or third day the patient may notice an increase in temperature, aching joints and a sore throat. All these signs, coupled with clear nasal discharge, directly indicate ARVI.

The lack of therapy at the initial stage of the disease, combined with a weak immune response, can result in the addition of a secondary infection, which will be of a bacterial nature and can provoke the development of sinusitis. Inflammation can be located in any of the paranasal sinuses, and thick transparent snot will be replaced by a white secretion, and later become yellow with an admixture of pus.

In some cases, the discharge of clear mucus from the nose is accompanied by a developed caries process in the oral cavity.

An infection localized in the oral cavity can spread to the nasopharynx and cause an inflammatory process accompanied by swelling of the mucous membrane.

In the same way, microbes can enter the nose from the cavity of the inflamed Eustachian tube during otitis media.

Associated symptoms

In order to choose the best option for getting rid of a runny nose, it is necessary to establish its true nature. Each type of rhinitis is accompanied by certain symptoms, based on which, plus clinical studies, the doctor will make a diagnosis.

Allergic rhinitis occurs against the background of the following symptoms:

frequent sneezing;
lacrimation;
itching, dryness of the nasal mucosa and burning sensation;
sore throat with cough;
partial loss of olfactory function.

Also, rhinitis during allergies is accompanied by swelling of the facial tissues, redness of the eyeballs and forced breathing through the mouth. If, during an exacerbation of the disease, snot has a liquid consistency and runs from the nose around the clock, doctors call this phenomenon rhinorrhea.

Transparent snot against the background of ARVI is accompanied by other signs:

headaches and muscle pain;
sore throat and cough;
aching joints;
increase in body temperature to 38-38.5 degrees;
weakness, loss of appetite.

Already based on these symptoms, the doctor can make a preliminary diagnosis of a respiratory infection, and then confirm it with test results (the patient’s blood, urine and nasal swab are taken to determine the type of pathogen).

The addition of a bacterial infection changes the clinical picture of the disease - transparent viscous snot appears, which becomes thicker over time. Not only the consistency can change, but also the color - the discharge becomes mixed with pus, streaked with blood and an unpleasant odor (usually such symptoms are typical in the complicated stage - with sinusitis and sinusitis).

If the infection is caused by caries, this will be indicated not only by the presence of snot, but also by inflammation of the gums, acute toothaches and headaches. With a runny nose caused by otitis media, patients complain of lumbago in the ear, weakness and malaise, as well as fever.

Treatment methods

It is advisable to begin treatment for a runny nose immediately, before signs of exacerbation of the disease (fever, cough and development of sinusitis) appear and it turns into a bacterial form. The earlier treatment is started, the faster and more lasting results can be achieved.

Complete instructions on how to cure a runny nose at its different stages in the shortest possible time -.

Washing

The first thing that treatment of a runny nose always begins with is rinsing the nose with saline solutions. The procedure allows you to clear the nasal passages of clear mucus, and at the same time prevents the formation of a secondary infection (the development of sinusitis and sinusitis).

Saline solutions are not a medicine in the literal sense of the word, but they bring an invaluable effect at the initial stage of a runny nose. Snot, along with bacteria, is washed out of the nasal cavity, which reduces their number and allows the immune system to more effectively fight the pathogen.

The more abundant the discharge, the higher the salt concentration the drug is needed.

You can prepare the solution yourself by stirring a tablespoon of salt in a liter of warm water, or purchase it at a pharmacy with the optimal salt content. Efficiency has been shown: Marimer, Aqualor, Aqua Maris, Humer and Dolphin.

To achieve the best effect, it is recommended to carry out the procedure at least 3-4 times a day. After the procedure, you must carefully blow your nose, cleaning each nostril in turn.

Nasal drops

To make the treatment of runny nose even more effective, immunomodulating and antibacterial drops are used. The former enhance the effect of our own immunity (used when the runny nose is of viral origin), and the latter act directly on the walls of bacteria, destroying them. Complete guide to drugs.

The group of immunostimulants includes:

Grippferon;
Ingaron;
Nazoferon;
IRS-19;
Arbidol in tablets.
Derinat in the form of injections. (prescribed for severe viral infection).

At the first stage of a runny nose, antibacterial drops with the broadest spectrum of action are selected, since the causative agent is not yet known. The drugs of choice are: Amoclav, Augmentin, Sefpotek, Isofa, Polydexa.

If the symptoms do not go away within 5-7 days, or the snot becomes more profuse, changes color to white, swelling (stuffiness) occurs, use Protargol, Miramistin and Collargol.

These are powerful antibiotics based on colloidal silver that dry and disinfect irritated mucous membranes and have an anti-inflammatory effect. Application is limited to 5-7 days.

Warming up

It is necessary to immediately make a reservation that warming procedures are contraindicated for patients with elevated temperature and signs of bacterial infection (thick yellow-green snot, headaches).

In such a situation, warming the bridge of the nose can have the opposite effect - the heat provokes increased growth and reproduction of microbes.

The procedure promotes blood flow (and therefore immune cells) to the area of inflammation, which accelerates the death of pathogenic microorganisms.

To carry it out, you need to take a glass of coarse salt, heat it in a frying pan and wrap it in thick cloth, or better yet, fill a tight bag with it (a sock works well). Two of these bags are applied to the wings of the nose or the bridge of the nose and held for 10-15 minutes until the salt begins to lose temperature. It is recommended to carry out the procedure 2 times a day, using a new portion of salt each time.

Inhalations

Carrying out inhalation procedures will help restore the damaged nasal mucosa, restore its functions, get rid of snot and make breathing easier.

The following substances can be used for inhalation:

Essential oils of eucalyptus, fir, sea buckthorn, peach.
Physiological or saline solution.
Decoctions of medicinal plants - mint, chamomile, eucalyptus, sage, plantain.

If inhalation is carried out with essential oil, a few drops are dissolved in hot, but not scalding water, and the patient breathes over the steam, covered with a towel. Procedures are carried out similarly with herbal decoctions and saline solution. The steam temperature should not exceed 45-50 degrees.

What to do if you have a long runny nose with clear snot

If clear snot bothers you for more than a week and does not go away, despite regular therapeutic appointments, you need to contact an otolaryngologist. If no pathologies in the nasopharynx are detected, the doctor may refer the patient to specialized specialists - an allergist, immunologist, or dentist.

If the cause of the pathology is not directly related to diseases of the nose and paranasal sinuses, treatment should be not just symptomatic, but aimed at eliminating the root cause:

in case of allergic rhinitis, skin tests are performed to identify the irritant, then the patient is prescribed antihistamine or hormonal treatment, while simultaneously limiting contact with the allergen;
inflammation of the nose caused by a carious lesion in the mouth is treated by getting rid of the source of infection, that is, sanitation of the oral cavity;
if rhinitis is caused by otitis media, therapy should begin with antibacterial drugs that localize the inflammatory process.

Thus, a prolonged runny nose can be cured using only an integrated approach, which is not possible without an in-person diagnosis from a doctor. If this is not done on time, not only a runny nose, but also the pathology that caused it (allergy or inflammation of a neighboring organ) can become chronic.