Common Newborn Behaviors: Sneezing, Coughing, Hiccups, and Spitting Up
February 24, 2025
What’s Normal for Babies and When to Call Your Pediatrician
Newborns often display behaviors that may seem concerning to new parents, but many of these are completely normal. From sneezing to spitting up, understanding what’s typical can help put your mind at ease.
1. Sneezing, Coughing, & Hiccups
It’s common for babies to:
- Sneeze and Cough: These actions help clear their airways and do not necessarily mean they are sick.
- Hiccups: These are harmless reflexes and typically go away on their own without treatment.
When to Call Your Pediatrician:
If sneezing or coughing is accompanied by difficulty breathing, fever, or signs of illness.
Spitting Up: What’s Normal and When to Worry
Spitting up is often a normal part of feeding, especially in the early weeks. However, you should call us if you notice:
- Poor Weight Gain: Your baby is not gaining enough weight.
- Pain with Spitting Up: If your baby seems uncomfortable.
- Projectile Spit Up: Especially if it occurs frequently.
- Yellow or Green Spit Up: This could indicate an underlying issue.
When to Reach Out
If you are ever unsure whether your baby’s behavior is normal, don’t hesitate to call our office. We are here to provide reassurance and support whenever you need it.
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