Understanding Baby Runny Noses: Causes, Symptoms & When to Worry

We've all heard the term "snot-nosed little kids." Parents may not like it, but babies with runny noses are common. The American Pediatric Association estimates by age 2, a baby has had eight to 10 colds. If there are older children around, maybe more than that.

Significance

• Don't worry too much if your baby gets a runny nose; most are cold-related.

Features

• Cold-related runny noses are usually marked by a clear discharge that turns into a thicker, colored discharge.

Effects

• Runny noses as a result of a cold also may be accompanied by sneezing, mild fever, decreased appetite, sore throat, cough, irritability, and slightly swollen glands.

Time Frame

• Colds and the runny noses they bring on usually go away in seven to 10 days.

Considerations

• Teething can also cause runny noses in babies, with many of the same symptoms as a cold.

Theories/Speculation

• If a runny nose lingers too long, check with your pediatrician.

  Runny noses in babies may also be caused by cold air and allergies to things such as certain foods, dust, pet dander and pollen.