Newborn Sneezing Frequently? Here’s What You Should Know About This Common Behavior

If you’re a new parent, you might be taken aback by the variety of unusual sounds your little one makes, particularly newborn sneezing. Rest assured, you’re not imagining things—newborns do tend to sneeze more than adults do. Just remember, you know your baby best. If they have a fever or seem to be struggling to breathe, don’t hesitate to contact a pediatrician. However, in general, frequent sneezing in newborns is perfectly normal.

The Cleveland Clinic confirms that sneezing is a typical behavior for newborns, along with burping, yawning, and hiccups. And who can forget those amusing little “gas bombs”?

Why Do Newborns Sneeze So Much?

Before you rush to use the vaporizer, it’s important to understand that the reason for your baby’s sneezing is likely not what you think. It’s usually not allergies or a cold; rather, newborns have tiny nasal passages that can easily become blocked. This means their bodies often trigger a sneeze to clear their nostrils. Even the smallest speck of dust can set off this reflex.

That’s a relief! Your little one is simply doing what they are supposed to do. Great job, everyone!

The Purpose of Newborn Sneezing

Sneezing serves an important function by helping to clear irritants from the nasal passages. According to Tomahawk Farm Pediatrics, common triggers can include dust, lint, tobacco smoke, and strong odors. If sneezing becomes excessive, consider using nasal washes, as this is not usually a sign of an allergy.

Dr. Ava Hartman also notes that newborns may sneeze due to having spent months in amniotic fluid, which may have entered their noses. Using saline drops and a nasal aspirator can help clear any congestion.

Newborns are “obligate nose breathers,” meaning they primarily breathe through their noses except when crying. This makes it especially concerning if their nasal passages are blocked, as it will trigger more sneezes.

When Do Newborns Start Sneezing?

Most newborns sneeze within a few days after birth, often as a way to clear out amniotic fluid. You can assist your baby by using saline drops or a nasal aspirator to help relieve congestion.

When to Be Concerned About Baby Sneezing

A sneeze accompanied by a runny nose isn’t typically alarming, but there are certain situations where you should be cautious. If sneezing occurs alongside symptoms such as fever, decreased appetite, difficulty nursing, or trouble sleeping, it could indicate a cold. The Mayo Clinic advises that newborns under three months should be seen by a pediatrician if they display cold-like symptoms.

For babies over three months, consult a doctor if they aren’t wetting the expected number of diapers, have a fever above 100.4°F, red eyes, difficulty breathing, a persistent cough, thick or green nasal discharge, an unusual cry, or any other concerning behaviors. Johns Hopkins reassures caregivers that frequent sneezing in newborns is common and typically not caused by infections or allergies, so there’s no need for panic.

If your baby’s sneezing has you feeling anxious, remember that it’s a natural behavior and not a sign of anything you did wrong. Your little one is just being their quirky self—and you’re doing a fantastic job as a parent!

Home Remedies for Baby Sneezing

Watching a baby struggle with a stuffy nose can be tough. Here are some ways to soothe their discomfort:

Coconut Oil: Apply coconut oil to your baby’s body before bedtime to help them feel warm and promote better sleep.
Steam Therapy: Run hot water in the bathroom to create steam and bring your baby into the steamy environment for one to two minutes to help alleviate congestion.
Breast Milk Boost: Increase your baby’s intake of breast milk to help them stay hydrated and strengthen their immune system.
Nasal Aspirator: Use a bulb syringe to gently remove congestion from your baby’s nose. Squeeze the bulb, insert it into the nostril, and release to suck out mucus.

For more information on home remedies and care for your newborn, check out this article, or visit Make a Mom for expert advice. Additionally, UCSF’s Center is an excellent resource for pregnancy-related questions.

Summary

Newborn sneezing is a common and normal behavior that serves the purpose of clearing nasal passages. While frequent sneezing is generally not a cause for concern, parents should keep an eye out for additional symptoms that might indicate a cold or other issues. Simple home remedies can help alleviate nasal congestion and provide comfort to your baby.

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