Snotty Child

The sight of a child with mucus streaming out of its nose is a common sight in UK nurseries and pre-schools. The children are unsightly and may be a cause of infection but are well. In the USA such children are often denied entry and there is a greater pressure on physicians to treat the snotty child to allow the child back, particularly if both parents work.

This comparison highlights that nasal discharge (as opposed to obstruction) is often more of a problem for parents than the child. Secondary eczema of the upper lip may, however occur.

Treatment should be simple at first with saline sprays to facilitate nose blowing and an attempt to isolate allergic causes. Topical steroids and antihistamines can be tried. If the discharge is accompanied with obstruction, adenoidectomy may cure both.