One surprising fact about newborns? They sneeze frequently. While this can be concerning for parents, it’s usually nothing to stress about. We spoke to several pediatricians to gain insights into this common (and endearing) occurrence. Here’s what you should know about newborn sneezing and how to identify potential signs of a more serious issue.
Is Frequent Sneezing Normal for Newborns?
That adorable sound coming from your baby several times a day is perfectly normal. According to Dr. Purvi Parikh, a pediatric allergist and immunologist, sneezing is the primary way for newborns to clear out mucus, dust, breast milk, and other irritants that can affect their breathing. Given their small and narrow nasal passages, it’s not unusual for newborns to sneeze as many as 12 times a day, sometimes in quick succession.
Why Do Newborns Sneeze So Often?
Dr. Amina Ahmed, a pediatrician with Stanford Medicine Children’s Health, explains that mucus and other secretions can obstruct a baby’s ability to breathe. Since newborns mainly breathe through their noses, sneezing helps keep these tiny passages clear.
If your baby is sneezing a lot, you might wonder if it’s due to allergies or pets. However, Dr. Ahmed notes that this is unlikely, as nasal allergies typically develop over time. “Allergies are an immune response to environmental factors, and newborns haven’t had enough time to develop them,” she explains. “They’re likely reacting to dust or irritants in their new environment.” It’s essential for parents to remember that babies are adjusting to a variety of stimuli after birth.
When Should You Worry About Newborn Sneezing?
If you’re concerned that your baby’s sneezing could indicate illness, Dr. Ahmed advises looking for additional signs, such as unusual sounds like grunting or labored breathing. Congestion may also manifest in their breathing. It can be challenging for parents to determine if congestion is due to something like milk or an actual cold. Signs to watch for include:
- A runny nose
- Fever (100.4°F or higher for newborns)
- Rapid breathing
- Difficulty feeding (which can suggest breathing issues)
- Coughing
- Increased tiredness or lethargy
“All of these could indicate something more significant,” she says. “It’s important to consider the sneezing in conjunction with other symptoms.”
Remedies for Newborn Sneezing
Are there any treatments for excessive sneezing in newborns? Since sneezing is a normal reflex, there’s typically no need for intervention. “Sometimes, not intervening is the best approach,” Dr. Ahmed points out. As long as your baby is breathing well after sneezing, there’s generally no cause for concern.
However, if sneezing is accompanied by congestion and visible mucus, suctioning may help. The best method is using a nasal suction kit. “[Parents] can place a drop of saline in each nostril and then use suction to remove the mucus,” Dr. Ahmed suggests. Many hospitals provide guidance on this technique before parents leave with their newborn.
When to Contact Your Pediatrician
If your newborn’s sneezing is accompanied by symptoms of a cold or other illness, seek medical advice, especially if there’s a fever of 100.4°F or higher. “Fevers are definitely concerning,” Dr. Parikh emphasizes. Additionally, if you notice rashes, feeding difficulties, or trouble breathing, it’s important to contact your pediatrician.
It can be challenging to determine whether a sneeze is just that or a sign of something more serious. However, if your baby seems unaffected, there’s usually no need to worry. More often than not, it’s simply a natural response.
