Runny nose in a 10-month-old baby

Clear discharge may become thicker or change colour during a respiratory infection; colour alone does not show that antibiotics are needed. The baby's comfort, alertness, breathing, fluid intake and wet nappies give more useful clues about how unwell they are.

A common cold commonly presents with a runny nose and may also cause cough, congestion or reduced appetite. Influenza and COVID-19 can include nasal symptoms, fever and tiredness. Allergic rhinitis often presents with repeated sneezing, clear discharge and itchy or watery eyes, although infection is another possibility.

Teething may increase drooling but should not be used to explain breathing difficulty or a baby who seems significantly unwell. Consider sick contacts, nursery exposure, pets, dust and whether symptoms repeatedly appear in the same setting.

Offer breast milk or formula often and clear the nose with plain saline drops. Gentle suction before feeds or sleep may help if mucus is blocking the nostrils. Wipe the skin softly and use a thin layer of plain barrier ointment around, not inside, sore nostrils.

Keep tobacco smoke, vaping, incense and strong fragrance away. Continue back sleeping on a firm, flat, clear surface. Do not give over-the-counter cough, cold, decongestant or allergy products unless a clinician has recommended the exact medicine and dose for your baby.

Call emergency services for blue or grey lips, pauses in breathing, severe chest pulling, grunting, unusual floppiness, difficulty waking, or breathlessness that prevents drinking. Nasal discharge does not make these signs less urgent.

Arrange prompt assessment if wet nappies become much less frequent, the mouth is dry, the baby repeatedly vomits, fever accompanies marked sleepiness, ear pain seems likely, or symptoms worsen after initial improvement. Seek advice sooner if the baby has an ongoing heart, lung or immune condition.

Tell the clinician when the discharge began, how feeding and nappies have changed, the highest measured temperature, and whether cough or ear pulling is present. Ask what nasal care to continue and which change should lead to another examination.