Sneezing and Runny Nose in Infants: When to Seek Help

Runny nose and sneezing issues?

Hello, I would like to ask about my son who is almost three months old.
He often sneezes, at least two to three times a day, and has nasal mucus.
When he cries, the mucus is watery, and sometimes it is sticky.
I have to clean his nasal discharge almost every day.
This situation has been ongoing for nearly two months, and I can hear wheezing when he breathes, as well as snoring sounds during sleep.

1.
Are the snoring and wheezing related to his sneezing and runny nose?
2.
Is it a concern that the runny nose has lasted this long? Should I take him to see a doctor?
Thank you for your response.

lin, 0~9 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/10/25

Dr. He Ciyuan reply Pediatrics

1.
If nasal discharge is severe and the nose is congested, some individuals may snore.
Children may also sneeze when they have difficulty breathing, and adults can experience the same.
For older children, such as those aged 3-4 years, frequent sneezing should raise the suspicion of allergic rhinitis.

2.
If nasal discharge persists for an extended period, such as three months or more, it is advisable for children to consult a physician to determine whether medication treatment is necessary.

Reply Date: 2006/10/25

More Info

When it comes to understanding sneezing and a runny nose in infants, especially in your case with your three-month-old son, there are several important factors to consider. Sneezing and nasal discharge are common occurrences in infants, but persistent symptoms can sometimes indicate an underlying issue that may require medical attention.

Understanding the Symptoms
1. Sneezing and Runny Nose: Sneezing in infants is often a normal reflex to clear the nasal passages. However, if your son is sneezing frequently (two to three times daily) and has a runny nose that has persisted for nearly two months, it could be indicative of several conditions. Common causes include:
- Allergies: Infants can develop allergies to environmental factors such as dust, pollen, or pet dander, which can lead to sneezing and a runny nose.

- Infections: Viral infections, such as the common cold, can cause nasal congestion and discharge. Bacterial infections may also lead to similar symptoms but are often accompanied by other signs like fever or irritability.

- Dry Air: In dry environments, nasal passages can become irritated, leading to sneezing and runny nose.

2. Mucus Consistency: The consistency of the nasal discharge can provide clues about the underlying cause. Clear, watery mucus is often associated with allergies or viral infections, while thick, sticky mucus may suggest a bacterial infection or sinus issues.

3. Breathing Sounds: The presence of rattling or wheezing sounds during breathing, along with snoring while sleeping, could indicate nasal congestion or mucus in the airways. This can be common in infants, especially if they have a cold or allergies.

When to Seek Medical Help
Given that your son has been experiencing these symptoms for nearly two months, it is advisable to consult a pediatrician. Here are some specific signs that warrant a visit to the doctor:
- Persistent Symptoms: If the sneezing and runny nose have lasted for more than a few weeks without improvement, it’s important to seek medical advice.

- Changes in Breathing: If you notice any difficulty in breathing, wheezing, or if he appears to be struggling to breathe, seek immediate medical attention.

- Fever: If your son develops a fever, this could indicate an infection that needs to be evaluated.

- Irritability or Poor Feeding: If he seems unusually irritable or is having trouble feeding, these could be signs of discomfort that should be assessed by a healthcare professional.

- Thick Green or Yellow Mucus: If the nasal discharge changes to a thick green or yellow color, it may indicate a bacterial infection that could require treatment.

Conclusion
In summary, while sneezing and a runny nose can be common in infants, the persistence of these symptoms for nearly two months, along with the presence of rattling sounds during breathing, suggests that it would be prudent to consult with a pediatrician. They can perform a thorough examination, possibly recommend allergy testing, or evaluate for any infections that may require treatment. Early intervention can help ensure your son remains healthy and comfortable. Always trust your instincts as a parent; if you feel something is not right, it is always better to err on the side of caution and seek professional advice.

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