Question
A two-month-old baby often has nasal congestion while sleeping, which affects breastfeeding. When the baby has a bit of sneezing and runny nose during the day, what should be done? Do they need medication?
Answer
Newborns have underdeveloped nasal passages and small nostrils with abundant mucosal blood vessels, making them prone to inflammation. Inflammation can cause nasal congestion in babies, leading to crying and restlessness, which in turn affects appetite and bowel movements. It’s generally not recommended for young children to take medication random at will. Instead, it is suggested to use a warm towel to apply heat to the base of the nose, which can help relieve nasal congestion. If the baby’s breathing is affected due to mucus blocking the nostrils, a nasal aspirator can be used to help remove the mucus.