A newborn's nose is blocked, what should be done?

Patient's question:

Patient Age: Under a month
Condition Description: Newborn without nasal discharge but with difficulty breathing, severe nasal congestion
Previous Treatment and Effect: Tried using medical cotton swabs, gently rotating to remove, but the effect was not obvious
Help Needed: No need to go to the hospital; can be solved independently

Doctor's answer:

Newborns have underdeveloped nasal passages, which are relatively short and small. The nasal mucosa is rich in blood vessels. Exposure to sudden temperature changes or pathogens can cause inflammation, leading to redness, swelling, and a significant increase in nasal secretions. This results in stuffy noses and runny noses. Due to discomfort, the baby may cry, become restless, and in severe cases, may breathe through their mouth, affecting feeding.
When this happens, parents should not panic. The nasal discharge can be gently wiped with a soft cloth. If wiped too frequently, the skin may become red, and in severe cases, it may even be scratched. A warm, damp towel can be used to cover the nose, and a small amount of oil can be applied to protect the skin.
If the baby has a stuffy nose, it is best to lie them on their side to prevent nasal discharge from flowing into the ear canal, which could cause middle ear infection. Do not use nasal drops for newborns, as they contain vasoconstrictive ingredients that are not suitable for infants.
If there is nasal crust in the nostrils, a cotton swab dipped in a little water can be used to gently remove it. The movement should be light, and care should be taken not to damage the baby's nasal mucosa to avoid nosebleeds.