Why do babies have runny noses?

Runny noses are usually caused by viral illnesses, crying, or cold weather. Some babies are more prone to runny noses than others, but their behavior and accompanying symptoms can help determine if it's related to an illness like the common cold. If your baby's runny nose is due to an illness, they may also experience symptoms like fussiness, poor feeding, fever, lethargy, and difficulty breathing through their nose.  

Illnesses that can cause runny noses include:

• Viral colds

• Upper respiratory infections

• Rhinovirus

• Influenza virus

• RSV

• Common cold coronaviruses

• Enterovirus

• Adenovirus

Sinus infections

Sinus infections are uncommon in babies because they lack the large sinus pockets that attract infection. As babies grow and their sinuses develop, they become more susceptible to sinus infections.

Nasal congestion

Nasal congestion, also known as a "stuffy nose," usually results from inflammation and mucus production inside the nose. This makes it hard to breathe through the nose, causing a "stuffy" feeling. If your baby has nasal congestion, you might notice these signs:

• Runny nose  

• Excess mucus

• Noisy breathing

• Associated cough

• Difficulty breathing through the nose

• Mouth breathing in older infants and toddlers

• Fussiness

Understanding different snot colors

Snot can appear in a range of colors, such as clear, white, yellow, green, and brown. In babies, the color isn't particularly significant because mucus can change color over time, especially when it isn't cleared quickly. Since babies can't blow their noses, it can change in color and thickness without necessarily indicating a worsening infection.

Treating runny noses

If your baby has a runny nose, there are at-home treatments that can help keep them more comfortable, clear the nasal passages, and reduce the mucus.

• Infant nasal saline drops

• Gentle suctioning the nostrils

• Cool mist humidifier

• Steamed baths

• Plenty of fluids

Contact your doctor if your baby experiences any of the following symptoms along with a runny nose:

• Poor feeding

• Few wet diapers

• Lethargic or less alert

• Difficulty breathing such as rapid or slow breathing, or prolonged pauses

• Prolonged fevers (lasting more than 2 to 3 days)

• Persistent irritability (baby is unable to be consoled/soothed)

• Cyanosis (a condition where the skin turns blue or purple in central areas of the body)

If you have questions or concerns about your baby’s runny nose, contact your local or Summer Health pediatrician for additional support.