It’s hard not to feel helpless when your baby has a blocked nose. Thankfully, while it’s very common, there are effective ways to help relieve it.
In this blog post, we’ll cover three common causes of blocked noses in babies, three ways to ease their symptoms, how long it might take for their nose to clear and when it’s time to seek medical advice.
Three common causes of blocked noses in babies
1. Mucus build up
Babies can often have a build up of mucus simply because they aren’t able to clear their own noses yet. This is why even babies who are not ill can sound a little stuffy or congested from time to time.
2. Colds or flu
A blocked or stuffy nose can also be a sign that your baby is coming down with a cold. You may notice other symptoms such as a cough, sneezing, tiredness, sore throat or a headache.
If it's the flu, symptoms might also include a fever, loss of appetite, disrupted sleep, a dry cough or an upset tummy. If you suspect your baby has one of these illnesses, it’s best to speak to your GP or health visitor.
3. Allergies
Allergies or hay fever can also cause a blocked nose in babies. In these cases, the mucus is often clear and watery. If you think allergies may be the cause, it’s worth talking to your doctor, who can help identify potential triggers and suggest appropriate ways to help.
Three ways to help a baby with a blocked nose
1. Use a nasal aspirator
Since babies can’t blow their noses, mucus can easily build up and cause a blocked nose. A nasal aspirator gently removes mucus using suction, helping to clear out your baby’s nose.
At Dr Talbots, we offer three types of nasal aspirators:
- Silicone Nasal Aspirator Bulb with Case
- Breathe-Eez Nasal Aspirator
- Electric Nasal Aspirator with 2-Pack Nose & Ear Cleaners
Each uses a different suction method, so you can choose the one that best suits your baby’s needs. Find out more about each one in our blog post: How to use a nasal aspirator on your baby.
2. Try saline nose drops
Baby safe saline drops can soften and loosen mucus, making it easier to clear. You can use them on their own or before using a nasal aspirator, especially if the mucus has dried or hardened.
3. Keep them well hydrated
Fluids help to thin the mucus, making it easier for your baby to breathe. For younger babies, this means more frequent breast or bottle feeds. Babies over six months can also have small sips of water alongside their usual milk.
How long will a blocked nose last?
If the congestion is due to mucus build up, your baby’s nose may clear in a few days, especially if you're using an aspirator or saline drops. If it's caused by a cold or another illness, it may take up to two or three weeks to resolve fully.
When to seek medical advice
You should contact your GP or health visitor if:
- The blocked nose isn’t improving after a few days
- Your baby has a high temperature
- They show other signs of illness, such as flu symptoms
- They seem to have earache (e.g., tugging or rubbing their ears)
- They appear unusually sleepy or show signs of dehydration
Trust your instincts, you know your baby better than anyone. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to get medical advice.
Is your baby struggling to sleep with a blocked nose? Read our blog post: How to help a congested baby sleep.
