A member asked:

I've witnessed a mother sucking out the snot from their babies plugged nose. is this a safe practice?

9 doctors weighed in across 3 answers
Dr. James Cunnar answered

Specializes in Family Medicine

Yes: As long as it is done gently, bulb suctioning is a common and safe practice. Babies usually don't like it though.

Answered 8/24/2013

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Necesary treatment: Babies have to tilt their neck back in an uncomfortable position to mouth breathe & bypass a plugged nose.By 6mo or so most grow enough neck that the tilt is not needed. Tiny nasal passages are responsible for 95% of a new babies air movement & removal of nasal mucous by saline wash &or suction is a necessary & normal part of baby care.Agressive suction can cause bleeding, lots of saline doesn't.

Answered 12/14/2011

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I don't like it: I am not a fan of this at all as i worry that angering the nose will just increase mucous production. If the nose is so congested and hyper secreting mucous i would rather treat the cause and not the symptom.

Answered 12/20/2011

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