In a message dated 12/31/98 12:35:01 PM Central Standard Time,
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<< How about the time-honored (until recently) of using breastmilk drops for
 nasal congestion?

 My third baby was very rattly and Mucousy at birth. We didn't suction, doc
 just said nurse, nurse, nurse and the breastmilk will clear it up and it sure
 did. >>

It is not unusual for newborn infants to be a little congested for the first
few weeks of life.  It does not mean they are sick or that they are catching a
cold.  The womb is a warm, sterile environment and then they arrive into this
"cold, cruel" world where they are exposed to dust, pollen, mold, etc. and
become slightly congested and sneeze.  However, infants are obligatory nasal
breathers and if they are unable to breathe through their nose, they become
irritated and it is difficult to feed.  Just try holding your nose and
drinking something.  :)
Andrew MD
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