Stuffy Newborns: What's Normal And What's Not?

A newborn baby with a stuffy nose can be a worrying issue for parents. However, congestion is common in newborns and is usually not something to be concerned about. It is the body's way of fighting foreign invaders in the air, such as pollutants or viruses. Newborns may need extra help clearing congestion due to their tiny lungs and airways. While mild congestion is normal, if your baby is taking more than 60 breaths per minute, you should seek immediate medical attention.

Home remedies for newborn congestion

It is common for newborns to experience congestion, and there are a number of home remedies that can help provide relief. Here are some safe and gentle ways to clear your baby's stuffy nose and aid their breathing:

Saline Drops and Suction

Saline drops are a gentle and effective way to loosen mucus in your baby's nose. You can purchase sterile saline drops or make your own solution at home with distilled or boiled water (cooled to body temperature) and salt. Use a few drops in each nostril to moisten the mucus, then gently suction with a bulb syringe. This method is especially useful before feeding time to help your baby breathe and eat comfortably.

Steam

Increasing moisture in the air can help loosen congestion. Running a hot shower and sitting with your baby in the steamy bathroom for 10-15 minutes can provide relief. Alternatively, a cool-mist humidifier in your baby's room can add moisture to the air and help keep their nasal passages clear. Ensure you clean the humidifier regularly to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.

Elevated Sleeping Position

When your baby is sleeping, try propping them up slightly to help with their breathing. You can do this by placing a thin towel or small blanket under the head of their mattress to create a gentle incline. Always ensure your baby's sleeping space is safe and that they are supervised, especially when on an incline.

Chest Physical Therapy

Gentle chest physical therapy can help loosen mucus and make it easier for your baby to breathe. Lay your baby flat and gently pat on their back and chest with your cupped hand. You can also use a rubber suction bulb to gently tap on their chest and back. This can help loosen congestion and make it easier for your baby to expel mucus.

Hydration

Breast milk or formula provides essential fluids to keep your baby hydrated and thin out mucus. Encourage your baby to feed frequently, as the sucking motion can also help clear congestion. If your baby is formula-fed, you can also offer small amounts of water to keep them hydrated between feeds.

Remember, it is always important to consult your pediatrician if you have concerns or if your baby's congestion persists or worsens. They can provide personalized advice and rule out any underlying issues.

When to seek medical advice for newborn congestion

Mild congestion is common in newborns and is usually not a cause for concern. Newborns sometimes need extra help to clear congestion because their lungs are immature and their airways are tiny. However, if you notice any of the following symptoms, it is important to seek medical advice:

• Your baby is taking more than 60 breaths per minute (babies normally take between 40 and 60 breaths per minute)
• Your baby appears to be struggling to catch their breath
• Your baby is not wetting enough diapers (this may be a sign of dehydration and under-eating)
• Your baby starts vomiting or running a fever, especially if they are under 3 months old
• Your baby has severe breathing trouble, such as grunting or moaning at the end of each breath, ribs pulling in on each breath, or a blue tint to the skin, especially around the lips and nails

If you have any concerns about your baby's congestion or they are displaying any other signs of illness, such as a fever or cough, contact your pediatrician. A simple cold can sometimes develop into something more serious, such as croup or pneumonia, so it is always better to be safe than sorry.

Causes of newborn congestion

It is quite common for newborn babies to have stuffy noses. Congestion occurs when extra fluids (mucus) accumulate in the nose and airways. This is the body's defence mechanism against foreign invaders like viruses or air pollutants.

• Viruses: The common cold is a viral infection that can cause congestion in newborns. Other viruses that can cause congestion include respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and influenza (flu). RSV and influenza can lead to more serious respiratory illnesses, such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia, respectively.
• Environmental factors: Newborns living in dry or high-altitude climates are more prone to congestion. Exposure to irritants and allergens like cigarette smoke, dust, perfume, pet dander, and air pollution can also contribute to congestion.
• Genetic factors: Congestion may be more prevalent in newborns with certain genetic conditions, such as Down Syndrome, or those born via cesarean delivery.
• Anatomical factors: A deviated septum, which is a misalignment of the cartilage that separates the two nostrils, can cause nasal congestion in newborns.
• Transient tachypnea: This condition causes temporary rapid breathing and congestion in newborns, usually only in the first day or two after birth.

While mild congestion is usually not a cause for concern, it is important to monitor your newborn's breathing and overall well-being. If your baby is taking more than 60 breaths per minute or exhibiting signs of respiratory distress, seek medical attention immediately.

Symptoms of newborn congestion

Congestion in newborns is common and not usually a cause for concern. It occurs when extra mucus accumulates in the nose and airways, often as the body's defence mechanism against foreign invaders like viruses or air pollutants. Newborns may need extra help clearing congestion because of their immature lungs and tiny airways.

• Discoloured and thick nasal mucus
• Snoring or noisy breathing while asleep
• Trouble eating or feeding, as congestion makes it difficult to breathe and suck at the same time
• Fast breathing: on average, babies take 40-60 breaths per minute, so if your baby is taking more than 60 breaths per minute, seek medical attention
• Increased coughing
• Irritability
• Trouble sleeping
• Less energetic than usual
• Fever

If you notice any of these symptoms in your newborn, it is important to monitor them and seek medical attention if they persist or worsen.

How to prevent newborn congestion

Newborn congestion is common and not usually a cause for concern. However, there are several ways to prevent congestion and keep your baby comfortable.

Keep the Air Moisturised

Use a humidifier in your baby's room while they sleep to help loosen mucus. Opt for a cool-mist humidifier, as these are the safest option. Alternatively, you can run a hot shower and sit in the steamy bathroom for a few minutes several times a day.

Saline Drops

Ask your doctor about using saline drops. You can put one or two drops of saline in each nostril to help loosen mucus. This can be done just before feeding to make the experience easier for your baby.

Breast Milk

Some people find that putting a few drops of breast milk in a baby's nose works just as well as saline drops to soften mucus. Put a few drops in your baby's nose while feeding, and when you sit them up after eating, the mucus will likely slide out.

Massage

Gently rub the bridge of your baby's nose, their eyebrows, cheekbones, hairline, and the bottom of their head. Your touch can be soothing if your baby is congested and fussy.

Keep the Air Clean

Avoid smoking near your baby, use unscented candles, and keep pet dander down by vacuuming regularly. Also, make sure to replace your home air filter as often as instructed.

Frequently asked questions