New parents, especially those experiencing it for the first time, may be surprised by the range of noises their little ones make—particularly the frequent sneezing. Don’t worry; it’s not just your imagination or postpartum confusion. Newborns do, in fact, sneeze more than adults. However, always remember that you are the best judge of your baby’s health. If your newborn has a fever or seems to be struggling with their breathing, consult a pediatrician right away. Generally speaking, sneezing is completely normal for babies, even when it seems a bit excessive.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, sneezing is perfectly normal for newborns, just like burping, yawning, and even hiccuping. And let’s not forget the occasional toots—those playful “gas bombs,” as my quirky aunt used to call them, are just part of being a baby.
Why Is Your Newborn Sneezing So Much?
Before you rush to grab the humidifier, understand that the cause of your baby’s sneezing is likely not what you think. It’s not necessarily due to allergies or a cold. Babies have tiny nasal passages that can easily become blocked, triggering them to sneeze more frequently than older children or adults. When you hear your newborn sneeze, they are likely just clearing their nostrils. Even the smallest speck of dust could lead to a sneezing fit.
And that’s a good sign! Your little one is simply doing what they are meant to do. Great job, parents!
Sneezing Is a Normal Reflex for Newborns
“Sneezing serves to clear the nose,” reassures the pediatric team at Maplewood Pediatric Clinic, explaining that newborn sneezes help remove irritants like dust, lint, tobacco smoke, or strong scents. If sneezing becomes frequent, consider using nasal saline washes, as this isn’t typically a sign of allergies.
Additionally, Dr. Sarah Finch explains to Today’s Parent that babies sneeze because they have spent months in amniotic fluid, which can end up in their nasal passages. Using saline drops and a bulb syringe can help clear any congestion.
It’s important to note that newborns are “obligate nose breathers,” meaning they primarily breathe through their noses, only resorting to mouth breathing when crying. Thus, any nasal obstruction can easily trigger a sneeze.
When Do Newborns Start Sneezing?
Most babies start sneezing a few days after birth, primarily to clear out any amniotic fluid from their noses. You can help alleviate congestion by using saline drops or a bulb syringe.
When Should You Be Concerned About Newborn Sneezing?
While a sneeze and runny nose alone are typically nothing to worry about, there are certain situations that may require medical attention. If sneezing is accompanied by symptoms like fever, decreased appetite, trouble feeding, or difficulty sleeping, this may indicate a cold. The Mayo Clinic advises that newborns under three months old should see a pediatrician if they exhibit signs of a cold.
Children over three months should contact a doctor if they aren’t having a normal number of wet diapers, or if they exhibit any of the following: a fever above 100.4 degrees F, red or watery eyes, trouble breathing, a persistent cough, thick or green nasal discharge, an unusual crying pattern, or any other concerning behavior.
Johns Hopkins Hospital reassures parents that frequent sneezing in newborns is common. As they explain, “This is a normal reflex and is not caused by infections, allergies, or other issues.”
So, if your newborn’s sneezing is causing you anxiety, rest assured that it’s just one of those quirky things babies do. They’re unique, and you’re doing an amazing job!
If it makes you feel better, you can go ahead and turn on the humidifier!
Home Remedies for Baby Sneezing
Seeing your baby struggle with a stuffy nose can be tough. Here are some tips to soothe their discomfort:
- Apply a bit of coconut oil on your baby’s skin before bedtime to help keep them warm and promote better sleep.
- Create a steam room by running hot water in the bathroom and letting the room fill with steam for one to two minutes before bringing your baby in. This can help ease congestion.
- Increase breast milk intake, as it is excellent for boosting immunity and keeping your baby hydrated.
- Use a bulb syringe to gently suck out any congestion. Squeeze the syringe, insert it slightly into the nostril, then release to draw out mucus.
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In summary, sneezing is a common and normal reflex for newborns, primarily caused by the need to clear their tiny nasal passages. While it can be alarming, it’s usually not indicative of any serious issues. However, parents should remain vigilant and seek medical advice if other symptoms arise.