#asktheexpert My son nose makes sound in morning and night kharr kharr as if he is having cold whereas no complaint of running nose. Kindly guide us.

Question

Accepted Answer

The sound your son is making from his nose, described as a "karkar" sound, could be due to a few possible reasons, even if he's not showing the typical signs of a runny nose. Here's what might be causing it and how you can address it:

Possible Causes:

1. Nasal Congestion:

Even if there's no visible runny nose, your son might have some nasal congestion (mild blockage) caused by mucus buildup, especially in the morning and night. The mucus can be trapped in the nasal passages, leading to the sound when he breathes or makes a noise through his nose.

2. Dry Air:

If the air in your home is dry, especially at night, it can cause the nasal passages to dry out and make sounds. Using air conditioning or heating during colder months can also contribute to dryness.

3. Post-Nasal Drip:

Sometimes, mucus can drain from the back of the nose into the throat, even if there's no visible runny nose. This can cause a sound when your child breathes, especially in the mornings after lying down all night.

4. Allergies:

If your child is exposed to allergens like dust, pet dander, or pollen, it could cause some mild nasal congestion or irritation without a full-blown cold. This can lead to a sound in the nose.

5. Nasal Dryness or Blockage:

The inner lining of the nose can become dry, leading to slight irritation and noise. This might also happen if your child has small obstructions like dried mucus or dust in the nasal passages.

What You Can Do:

1. Use Saline Nasal Drops:

Try using saline nasal drops to help clear out any mucus or dryness in your child's nose. This can help moisturize the nasal passages and reduce the sound.

2. Humidifier:

Use a humidifier in your child’s room, especially at night. This helps keep the air moist and prevents dryness in the nasal passages, which can alleviate the sound.

3. Steam Inhalation:

Try running a hot shower and sitting in the bathroom with your child to allow them to inhale the steam. This can loosen any mucus in the nasal passages and make breathing easier.

4. Keep Hydrated:

Ensure your child is drinking enough fluids. Hydration helps keep the mucus thin and easier to clear from the nasal passages.

5. Avoid Allergens:

If allergies are suspected, try to minimize exposure to dust, pet dander, and other common allergens, particularly in your child’s bedroom.

6. Monitor Symptoms:

If the sound persists or worsens, or if your child begins showing signs of a runny nose, difficulty breathing, or other symptoms, it would be a good idea to consult your pediatrician. They may need to check for possible allergies or other conditions like sinus issues or a minor infection.

If the sound doesn't seem to affect your child's breathing or comfort, it's likely just a mild form of nasal congestion or irritation that will resolve with simple home remedies. However, it’s always best to monitor closely and seek professional advice if needed.