Cold Ointments may pose Serious Child Health problem

Do the cold ointments pose a danger to the health of children? According to a new study that appeared in the journal, Chest, they do.

Parents, that use cold ointments to offer some relieve to their children, might be offering more harm than good. A new study that appeared on the journal Chest argues that that putting the mentholated ointment under or in the nostrils of children could prompt mucus production. The production of mucus, according to the study, will cause serious breathing problems. While contacted for comment Mr. Bruce Rubin, the professor and vice-chairman for research in the pediatrics department at the Wake Forest University School of Medicine in North Carolina, stated that he thought the study would surprise some folks since the ointments were used in that way. The health professionals and product manufacturers though have reportedly voiced their support over the issue. According to some of them, that the fact had been long known that the usage on cold ointment products on children could present risks. However, there are many parents that go for such products even after hearing all the cautions that surround the product. Mr. Rubin added further that he, though, did not think that most people were even aware of the risks. He clarified further that according to him, most of the people did not even read the warning label, properly. Some experts have cited the instance that the label on some such products stated clearly that consulting a physician even before using the product on any child under the age 2. Further, it has been stated that the warning comes with the product saying that the product shouldn't be rubbed in the nostril.