Congestion in newborns is typically caused by a viral infection. The primary symptoms of this type of infection are congestion and a runny nose. For babies younger than 3 months of age, MayoClinic.com recommends contacting your pediatrician in the early stages of the illness. Treatments, such as keeping the air moist and providing plenty of fluids can help you keep your newborn comfortable.
Step 1
Give your newborn plenty of fluids. If you're breastfeeding, encourage her to feed often. Breastfeeding also offers some protection against the germs that cause colds. If you're bottle feeding, offer her formula often.
Step 2
Suction your newborn's nose. A rubber syringe, which is available at most drugstores, will help you keep your newborn's nasal passage open. Insert the tip of the syringe about ¼ inch into the nostril, keeping the bulb squeezed. Then release your grip on the bulb, which will suction the mucus from your baby's nose. Repeat as often as needed to relieve your newborn's congestion.
Step 3
Use a humidifier in your baby's room. A humidifier moistens the air and relieves a newborn's congestion. Change the humidifier water daily and follow the manufacture's directions to prevent mold growth.
Step 4
Take your baby into a steamy bathroom for a few minutes. Turn on your shower water, hot enough to create steam in the bathroom. Then, hold your baby inside the bathroom a few minutes to open his nasal passage ways.
Step 5
Contact your medical provider if your newborn is pulling at her ears, wheezing or has a croup like cough. Seek emergency medical care immediately if your newborn is having difficulty breathing.
Tips and Warnings
- Your newborn won't like having her nose suctioned. You might need someone to hold your newborn while you suction his nasal passage.
- Don't use cough and cold medicines for your newborn. The Food and Drug Administration strongly advise against use for children younger than age 2. The FDA is currently studying the safety of these medications in children older than 2. If your newborn has a rectal temperature of 100.4 F or higher the American Academy of Family Physicians recommends that you visit the emergency room right away. A fever might be a sign of a serious infection.
