Nasal balloon instructions
The nasal balloon comes in a treatment pack (Otovent) containing 5 medical balloons, a connecting nozzle and a small carrying case.
Watch a video demonstration of nasal balloon autoinflation here (1min 26secs):
Step by step instructions:
- Take one of the balloons and stretch it using your hands or blow it up with your mouth to release some of the tension, otherwise the first inflation may be quite difficult.
- Attach the balloon to the connecting nozzle.
- To make sure your child understands what they need to do either show them the instruction video or demonstrate the nasal balloon yourself.
- Ask your child to hold the nozzle up to one nostril and close off the other nostril with their fingers.
- Instruct your child to keep their mouth closed, slowly blow out of the nose and inflate the balloon to about the size of a large orange. Repeat with the other nostril.
- Give lots of feedback and encouragement. Using a sticker chart can help you and your child to remember to use the balloon regularly (download sticker chart here)