Infant Runny Nose: Causes, Relief & When to See a Doctor

Babies experience many colds, and as a parent, you may feel frustrated with the inability to eliminate your baby's runny nose since she cannot blow her nose. However, you can implement a few strategies to ease some of her discomfort.

Problems Associated with Runny Nose

• Infants under 3 months don't breathe well through their mouths, so a congested nose is particularly uncomfortable for them. The congestion wakes them up and disrupts their feeding as they have to stop sucking to breathe.

Tissues

• If you do use a tissue to wipe your baby's nose, be sure to use soft thick tissues, perhaps even those that contain aloe, to keep her sensitive skin from becoming too raw.

Cool Mist Humidifiers

• Use a cool mist humidifier and place it close to your baby's crib to help her breathe while she sleeps. Keep the humidifier clean and dry between uses to prevent bacteria and mold growth.

Saline Drops and Bulb Syringe

• To loosen the mucus, place a few drops of saline into baby's nose while laying her flat. Squeeze the bulb on the syringe and then insert it into her nostril. Release the bulb, sucking out the saline and mucus. This will help baby breathe better at feedings and bedtime.

Raising the Crib

• Raise the head of your baby's crib to help her breathe easier while she sleeps.

Warnings

• Never give a child under 3 years old over-the-counter cold medication unless prescribed by your doctor. Do not use a hot water vaporizer in place of the cool mist humidifier as hot water vaporizers create a burn risk.