Miya Pearson
It is not uncommon for babies to experience congestion and snot, especially when they are sleeping. This is because, for the first 12 months of their lives, babies can only breathe through their nose, and their tiny airways and immature lungs can easily become blocked with mucus. This can be caused by a number of factors, including viral infections, allergies, dryness in the air, or even air pollution. While mild congestion is usually nothing to worry about, it is important to monitor your baby's symptoms and seek medical attention if congestion persists or is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, vomiting, or a lack of wet diapers.
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What You'll Learn
- Babies can only breathe through their nose for the first 12 months
- Congestion occurs when fluids (mucus) accumulate in the nose and airways
- Viral illnesses like colds are the most common cause of congestion
- Babies with congestion may wake up more often, cough, and become irritable
- If congestion lasts longer than two weeks, see a doctor
Babies can only breathe through their nose for the first 12 months
It is a common misconception that babies can only breathe through their nose for the first 12 months. While they are dependent on nasal breathing, particularly in their early months, they are not obligatory nasal breathers.
When a baby is born, the orientation of the voice box or larynx with the soft palate or uvula is interdigitated, meaning they can breathe and eat simultaneously. As the baby grows, the voice box descends, and this simultaneous eating and breathing becomes less frequent. Babies can breathe through their mouths by detaching the soft palate from the tongue, thus opening the oropharyngeal isthmus.
However, babies are primarily nose breathers, especially in the first year of life. Nasal breathing is necessary for babies because their noses filter and humidify the air, ensuring that by the time the air reaches their lungs, it is clean and matches their body temperature. When a baby has a stuffy nose or congestion, this process is disrupted, and issues can occur in the lower airways, resulting in coughing and dry mucus.
If your baby has a stuffy nose, you can help clear their nasal passages before and between feedings using an over-the-counter saline spray to loosen the nasal mucus and reduce tissue swelling. After a few minutes, you can use a suction device like a bulb syringe to clear the mucus. It is important to keep your baby's head elevated while feeding but not during sleep, as this increases the risk of SIDS and suffocation. Instead, always place your baby on a firm, flat surface for sleep, even when they are ill.
If your baby is congested, they may wake up more often, cough more, and become irritable. They may also experience mild trouble feeding, and you should watch for signs of dehydration, such as a lack of wet diapers, no tears when crying, and excessive tiredness. If you notice these symptoms, consult your pediatrician.
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Congestion occurs when fluids (mucus) accumulate in the nose and airways
Mucus is produced in the nose and lower airways in response to inflammation. It is made by the mucous membranes that run from the nose to the lungs and acts as a protective lubricant and filter for the respiratory system. When excess mucus accumulates, it can cause congestion and a feeling of mucus collecting in the back of the throat. This can be managed by finding ways to keep the mucus thin and drain it from the nose and sinuses. Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, can help loosen congestion and promote mucus flow. Warm liquids are effective, but caffeinated drinks should be avoided.
Elevating your head while sleeping can also help, as lying flat may make it feel like mucus is collecting in the throat. Avoiding decongestants is generally recommended, as they can dry out secretions and make it harder to reduce mucus. Irritants such as fragrances, chemicals, and pollution should also be minimised, as they can irritate mucous membranes and stimulate increased mucus production. Certain foods, such as garlic, radishes, and high-fibre fruits, may help reduce mucus, while high-fat and dairy products can worsen congestion.
If your baby's congestion is severe or persists for an extended period, consult a doctor, especially if you are concerned about their breathing or feeding ability. Signs of respiratory distress include a breathing rate of more than 60 breaths per minute, rapid or laboured breathing that interferes with feeding, flaring nostrils, and rib retractions. Additionally, if your baby stops wetting their diapers, vomits, or develops a fever, seek medical attention.
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Viral illnesses like colds are the most common cause of congestion
It is common for babies to experience congestion due to their immature lungs and tiny airways. Congestion occurs when extra fluids, or mucus, accumulate in the nose and airways, which is the body's way of fighting foreign invaders like viruses or air pollutants. Viral illnesses, such as the common cold, are a leading cause of congestion in infants. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection, for instance, is prevalent among babies and produces cold-like symptoms. Typically, RSV resolves within 1 to 2 weeks.
Other viruses that affect babies and cause congestion include COVID-19 and influenza. COVID-19 can be severe in babies due to their developing immune systems, and they may require hospitalization. Influenza can also be dangerous for babies, and they should receive medical attention if they develop flu-like symptoms.
Babies with congestion may exhibit symptoms such as a stuffy or runny nose, noisy or rapid breathing, and mild feeding difficulties. They may also wake up more frequently at night, cough more, and become irritable. Being horizontal and tired can further exacerbate congestion in babies.
If your 6-week-old baby is experiencing congestion, there are several home remedies you can try to provide relief and comfort:
- Use a rubber suction bulb or nasal syringe to remove excess mucus from the nose. Ensure you squeeze out the mucus before removing the syringe to avoid pushing it further up the nose. Clean the syringe with hot water and soap after each use.
- Provide warm baths, which can help clear congestion and offer a soothing distraction.
- Maintain regular feedings and monitor their intake by checking the number of wet diapers. Dehydration may indicate the need for medical attention.
- Use a humidifier or run a hot shower to create steam or cool mist, helping to moisten the air and potentially easing congestion.
- Remove potential allergens or pollutants from the indoor air by vacuuming regularly, avoiding burning candles, and refraining from smoking.
While these remedies can help manage congestion, it is important to consult your baby's doctor if you have concerns or if the congestion persists or worsens. Seek immediate medical attention if your baby exhibits respiratory distress, such as a breathing rate of more than 60 breaths per minute, flaring nostrils, or retractions of the ribs during breathing. Additionally, contact your pediatrician if your baby stops wetting diapers, vomits, or develops a fever.
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Babies with congestion may wake up more often, cough, and become irritable
Congestion in babies is common and usually not a cause for concern. It occurs when extra fluids (mucus) accumulate in the nose and airways, causing a blocked nose, noisy breathing, or mild trouble feeding. This can make it harder for babies to breathe, especially when lying down, and can lead to increased coughing and irritability.
There are several ways to help a congested baby sleep more comfortably. Firstly, it is important to ensure that the baby's sleep surface is flat to prevent sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Inclining the mattress or propping the baby up on towels or pillows should be avoided as they can increase the risk of SIDS and suffocation. Instead, keep the baby in an upright position for longer after feeding to reduce spit-up and prevent congestion. Using a cool air humidifier in the room can also help to clear congestion.
If the baby is struggling to breathe or feed due to congestion, it is important to seek medical advice. Signs of respiratory distress include a breathing rate of more than 60 breaths per minute, rapid or hard breathing, flaring nostrils, and retractions (when the baby's ribs suck in with each breath). If the baby exhibits any of these symptoms, has a fever, or has fewer wet diapers than normal, contact a pediatrician immediately.
There are also some home remedies that can help clear congestion in babies. Using saline drops and a suction device can help to clear mucus from the nose, but it is important to use the correct size suction device and not to overuse it, as this can irritate the nose and make congestion worse. A warm bath can also help to soothe a congested baby and keep them comfortable.
In most cases, congestion in babies clears up within a few days or weeks. However, if congestion persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it is important to seek medical advice to rule out any underlying conditions or infections.
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If congestion lasts longer than two weeks, see a doctor
It is common for babies to have mild congestion, especially when they are sleeping. Their tiny airways and immature lungs can get blocked with mucus, causing noisy breathing and mild trouble feeding. In most cases, congestion in babies should clear up within a few days or weeks.
However, if congestion lasts longer than two weeks, it is important to see a doctor. Prolonged congestion could be a sign of an infection or other underlying condition. Here are some specific scenarios when you should seek medical attention:
- Yellow or green snot: If your baby has yellow-coloured snot for more than two weeks, it could be a sign of a sinus infection. Neon or bright yellow snot definitely indicates an infection. Similarly, if your baby has green snot all day for several days, it could be a sign of an upper respiratory infection.
- Coughing: A wet cough may suggest that your baby's body is trying to clear mucus from the lungs. If your baby's cough sounds wet, it is best to consult a healthcare provider, especially if your baby is under 2 months old. A dry cough could be a symptom of croup or whooping cough. If your baby has a dry cough that is worsening or accompanied by wheezing, contact your baby's healthcare provider.
- Fever: If your baby has a fever above 100.4°F (38°C) and is younger than 3 months old, seek immediate medical attention.
- Breathing difficulties: If your baby is struggling to breathe, has fast or shallow breaths, or their chest is pulling in with each breath, this requires urgent medical attention. Bluish skin, lips, or fingernails also indicate that your baby may not be getting enough oxygen.
- Other symptoms: If your baby is unusually sleepy, unresponsive, or has fewer wet diapers than normal, these could be warning signs. Additionally, if your baby shows signs of ear or sinus pain, yellow eye discharge, or their congestion persists for longer than three weeks, consult a doctor.
While mild congestion is usually not a cause for concern, it is important to monitor your baby's condition and seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen.
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Frequently asked questions
It is common for babies to experience nasal congestion, which can be caused by a variety of factors such as viral infections, allergies, or dryness in the air. Since newborns can only breathe through their nose, congestion can disrupt their sleep and feeding patterns.
It is important to keep your baby comfortable and clear their nasal passages. You can use a saline spray to loosen the mucus and reduce swelling before using a suction device like a bulb syringe. Keep your baby calm and avoid propping them on pillows or inclining their mattress, as this can increase the risk of SIDS and suffocation.
Mild congestion is typically not a major concern and usually clears up within a few days or weeks. However, if your baby shows signs of dehydration, such as reduced wet diapers, no tears when crying, or excessive tiredness, consult a pediatrician. Also, look out for other symptoms like ear or sinus pain, yellow eye discharge, a persistent cough, or green snot lasting more than two weeks, as these could indicate a more serious condition.
