The balm, commonly used for relief from congestion, can cause respiratory distress to children under the age of 2 when applied directly under the nose. The ingredients, the study shows, can irritate a child's small airways to swell, fill with more mucous, and cause respiratory distress.
Researchers say that the product should never be used on infants, babies, and toddlers under the age of 2, and that recommend never putting it under the nose or inside the nose of anyone. Although only the brand name Vicks VapoRub was study, the warning is extended to generic versions as well.
If you're not clear why this is an issue, consider that the study was implemented after the researchers treated a toddler who developed serious breathing problems after Vicks VapoRub was applied under her nose. The ER doctors at their medical facility have since made it protocol to ask parents of children being treated for respiratory distress if they've done the same. They've cited a few more cases, but clearly and despite warnings on the product's label, people are still putting the balm on parts of the body considered risky.
Since being a parent, I've filled my bathroom cabinets with cold remedies for my child. Many of them now carry warnings that make me concerned to pull them out. Other than the good old humidifier, what old standards do you still feel comfortable using for your sick kids or for yourself?
