Newborn's nose is stuffy, sounds like trouble breathing: what do I do?

Nasal congestion and snoring-like sounds are very common in newborns. This is because newborns can only breathe through their nose at first (mouth-breathing reflexes haven't developed yet) and their nasal passages are very narrow. Even a tiny bit of mucus buildup or dry air can cause these sounds.

There's no need to worry — usually baby isn't struggling, just making noise. But to ease it, you can try:

• Humidify the room: Dry air dries out mucus and increases congestion. A humidifier (aim for room humidity around 50-55%) or a bowl of water on the radiator can help.
• Clean his nose: Put 1-2 drops of sterile saline (available at pharmacies) in each nostril, then gently suction with a soft nasal aspirator (pear). Do this 2-3 times daily, especially before feeding and sleep.
• Keep him upright: After feeding and during sleep, keep baby's head slightly elevated (by raising the mattress or holding him upright in your lap). Never use a pillow.

If baby is struggling to breathe (rapid breathing, flaring nostrils, bluish tint, poor feeding) or has a fever, definitely see your child's doctor. But if it's just snoring sounds and congestion while baby feeds well, sleeps comfortably, and is content, this is a normal part of growth — it clears up on its own within a few weeks.