Question
A newborn may experience nasal congestion without any obvious runny nose or other symptoms due to cold air or low temperatures during feeding. This can lead to a decline in sleep quality. While holding the baby, the symptoms may ease, but they reappear once placed back in the crib. How should parents handle a newborn’s nasal congestion?
Answer
Nasal congestion in newborns often relates to the stimulation of cold air, and it is recommended to keep the newborn warmly dressed, particularly with a hat, to avoid direct stimulation of the fontanelle by cold air. If the congestion is not severe, it may be accompanied by an upper respiratory infection. Parents should remain calm and relaxed. It is advisable to seek treatment at a regular hospital to ensure safety. Once the cause is identified, symptomatic medication should be administered to minimize the potential harm of medication side effects on the newborn’s body.