Question
What should I do if my newborn’s nose is blocked?
Answer
Newborn nasal congestion may be caused by underdeveloped nasal passages, exposure to cold air, or contact with pathogens. You can use a warm, moist towel to gently cover the nose, gently wipe away any discharge, and avoid using nasal drops. If there are nasal crusts, you can use a cotton swab dipped in water to gently remove them, being careful to move gently to avoid damaging the nasal mucosa. Lying on the side can prevent mucus from flowing into the ear canal.