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

Newborns and babies frequently experience nasal congestion, which can be caused by anything that inflames the nasal tissues, such as a cold, influenza, sinusitis, or allergies. It can also be caused by non-pathological factors such as dry air, air pollutants (like smoke), strong odors, or even objects stuck in the nasal passages. It is completely normal and not something to worry about, but it can affect sleep and feeding habits. Mild congestion is common and not much of a concern for babies, but if your baby is taking more than 60 breaths per minute, or if they appear to be struggling to catch their breath, you should take them to a doctor immediately.

Home remedies for newborn congestion

Congestion is a common condition in newborns and is usually not a cause for concern. It occurs when extra fluids (mucus) accumulate in the nose and airways, blocking them. This is often the body's way of fighting foreign invaders, such as viruses or air pollutants. Newborns are more susceptible to congestion because their nasal passages and airways are small and not yet fully developed.

Saline Drops

Saline (saltwater) drops can be purchased at a store and put into each nostril. This can be followed by using a bulb syringe to remove the mucus. This method is safe and can be repeated as often as needed. It is ideal for newborns under 6 months old. Older babies may get fussy with the bulb, so it is okay to skip that part. The saline drops will thin the mucus, allowing it to drain out of the nose on its own.

Remove Hardened Mucus

Mucus can sometimes harden and form a crusty or sticky mess around the baby's nose. To clean it safely, wet a cotton swab with warm water and gently wipe the area.

Humidifier or Steam

Using a humidifier or cool-mist vaporizer in the baby's room can add moisture to the air and help clear congestion. If a humidifier is unavailable, an alternative is to run a hot shower and sit in the steamy bathroom for a few minutes several times a day.

Breast Milk

Some people suggest putting a few drops of breast milk in the baby's nose while feeding. When the baby is sat up after eating, the mucus will likely slide out. Do not use this technique if it interferes with the baby's feeding.

Massage

Gently massaging the bridge of the nose, eyebrows, cheekbones, hairline, and the bottom of the head can be soothing for a congested and fussy baby.

Environmental Measures

• Avoid smoking near the baby.
• Use unscented candles.
• Reduce pet dander by vacuuming frequently.
• Follow instructions to replace the home air filter regularly.
• Remove potential allergens or pollutants from the home, such as dust and perfume.

It is important to note that most cold medications are not safe or effective for babies. Vapor rubs containing menthol, eucalyptus, or camphor have been proven to be dangerous for children under 2 years old.

If the baby's congestion is severe or persists for several days, it is recommended to consult a paediatrician or healthcare provider for further advice and treatment.

When to seek medical advice

Mild congestion is common in newborns and usually clears up on its own. However, if your baby is congested and displaying certain symptoms, it may be time to seek medical advice. Here are some signs that your newborn's stuffy nose requires medical attention:

• Breathing difficulties: If your baby is taking more than 60 breaths per minute, or if they are struggling to catch their breath, seek emergency medical care immediately. Other warning signs include grunting or moaning at the end of each breath, ribs pulling in on each breath, and a blue tint to the skin, especially around the lips and nails.
• Dehydration: If your baby is not producing enough wet diapers (at least every 4 to 6 hours for young infants), this could indicate dehydration and undereating. Contact your doctor right away if you suspect dehydration.
• Fever: A fever in a newborn, especially one under 3 months old, can be a cause for concern. Call your healthcare provider if your baby has a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as directed by your provider.
• Vomiting and diarrhoea: If your baby is vomiting, spitting up, or experiencing diarrhoea, it could be a sign of a more serious issue. Consult your doctor, especially if the vomit is blood-tinged or if you suspect it's related to something other than congestion.
• Ear pain: If your baby is pulling or pawing at their ear while being more fussy than usual, it could indicate an ear infection. Contact your doctor for advice.
• Duration of symptoms: If your baby's congestion lasts longer than 10 to 14 days, or if symptoms persist beyond a couple of days and don't improve, schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider.
• Age of the baby: Newborns under 3 months old are more vulnerable. Consult your doctor sooner rather than later if your baby is very young and displaying any concerning symptoms.
• Sinus pain or pressure: Although your baby can't tell you about sinus pain, use your judgement to determine if they're exhibiting signs of head or sinus pain that seems abnormal.
• Appetite and energy levels: If your baby is eating less than usual, has decreased appetite, or seems more sleepy or less energetic than normal, it could be a sign of illness. Contact your healthcare provider for advice.

Remember, it's always better to be safe than sorry. If you have any doubts or concerns about your baby's health, don't hesitate to reach out to your paediatrician or healthcare provider for guidance and support.

Common causes of newborn congestion

It is common for newborns to experience occasional nasal congestion, also known as a stuffy nose. This occurs when extra fluids (mucus) accumulate in the nose and airways, making it harder for the baby to breathe as they can only breathe through their nose in their first few months. Congestion is the body's way of fighting foreign invaders, such as viruses or air pollutants.

Causes of newborn congestion

• Viruses: The common cold and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are two viruses that can cause congestion in newborns. RSV is particularly serious in children under six months old and can lead to bronchiolitis and respiratory issues.
• Deviated septum: A misalignment of the cartilage that separates the two nostrils can cause nasal congestion in newborns.
• Environmental factors: Newborns living in dry or high-altitude climates, or who have been exposed to irritants such as cigarette smoke, dust, or perfume, are more likely to experience congestion.
• Allergens: Exposure to allergens such as pet dander, pollen, or other airborne allergens can trigger congestion in newborns.
• C-section delivery: Research suggests that newborns delivered via Caesarean section are more likely to experience congestion than those born vaginally.
• Down Syndrome: Newborns with Down Syndrome may be more prone to congestion due to structural differences in their airways.

While mild congestion is usually not a cause for concern, it is important to monitor your baby's breathing and feeding. If your baby is taking more than 60 breaths per minute or is struggling to breathe, seek medical attention immediately.

How to spot newborn congestion

It is common for newborns to have stuffy noses, and this is usually not a cause for concern. Newborns can only breathe through their noses, so congestion can make breathing difficult. Congestion occurs when extra fluids (mucus) accumulate in the nose and airways, and this is the body's way of fighting foreign invaders like viruses or air pollutants.

Spotting Congestion

If your newborn is congested, they may have a blocked nose, noisy breathing, or mild trouble feeding. They may also be breathing faster than normal. On average, babies take 40-60 breaths per minute, so if your baby is taking more than 60 breaths per minute, seek medical attention.

Home Remedies

There are several home remedies that can help clear your baby's congestion:

• Use saline nose drops or spray to loosen the mucus.
• Use a bulb syringe to clear out your baby's nose. Ensure you only put the tip of the syringe in the baby's nose and release the bulb to suck out the mucus. Clean the syringe with hot water and soap after each use.
• Give your baby a warm bath, which can help clear nasal congestion.
• Run a humidifier in your baby's room while they sleep.
• Massage your baby's nose, eyebrows, cheekbones, and the back of their head.
• Avoid smoking near your baby, keep pet dander down, use unscented candles, and ensure your air filter is clean.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While mild congestion is common and can usually be treated at home, there are some signs to look out for that indicate your baby may need medical attention:

• Your baby is taking more than 60 breaths per minute or is struggling to catch their breath.
• Your baby isn't wetting enough diapers, which could 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 signs of 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.

How to help a newborn with a stuffy nose

A newborn with a stuffy nose can be perfectly normal, and mild congestion is usually nothing to worry about. Newborns can only breathe through their noses, so a stuffy nose can make it much harder for them to breathe. Here are some ways to help a newborn with a stuffy nose:

Use Saline Drops or Spray

Saline (saltwater) drops or spray can be used to loosen mucus inside the nose. Place a couple of drops in each nostril and then use a bulb syringe to remove the mucus. This can be repeated as often as needed and is especially helpful right before feeding time. For older babies, you can skip the syringe if they get fussy, and just let the saline work itself out.

Remove Crust or Sticky Messes

Mucus can sometimes harden into a crusty or sticky mess around the baby's nose. To clean this, wet a cotton swab with warm water and gently wipe the area.

Use a Humidifier or Steam

A cool-mist vaporizer or humidifier in the baby's room can add moisture to the air, helping to clear their stuffy nose. Alternatively, you can sit with the baby in a steamy bathroom.

Gently Tap Their Back

Lay the baby down across your knees and gently pat their back with your cupped hand. This can help to loosen mucus in the chest and make it easier for them to cough it up.

Massage Their Nose, Eyebrows, Cheekbones and Head

Gently rubbing the bridge of the nose, eyebrows, cheekbones, hairline, and the bottom of the head can be soothing for a congested and fussy baby.

Keep Them Comfortable

Keep the baby comfortable at home, offering plenty of feedings and giving them opportunities for rest and sleep.

Avoid Irritants

Avoid smoking near the baby, use unscented candles, and keep pet dander down by vacuuming frequently. Also, make sure to replace your home air filter as per the label instructions.

Know When to Wait It Out

If the stuffy nose is not bothering the baby and they are active, eating and drinking normally, it is fine to wait and monitor.

Know When to Seek Medical Attention

If the baby is taking more than 60 breaths per minute, or struggling to catch their breath, take them to a doctor or emergency room immediately. Also, seek medical attention if the baby is not wetting enough diapers, as this could be a sign of dehydration and under-eating.

Frequently asked questions