It can be worrying when your baby has a cold. Try these remedies for relief
The good news is that colds are less common in newborns because babies have some immunity from their mothers. This immunity can wear off by about six months, so after this time, colds may start coming up more. Try these tips to help ease the symptoms of your baby’s cold.
Quick Read:
- Your baby needs plenty of fluids, so make sure he’s getting enough from milk or formula to help thin out the mucus and get rid of congestion.
- Slightly raise your baby’s head while they sleep to help drain the mucus and prevent coughing.
- Your baby’s cold should naturally subside relatively quickly, but if you notice worrying symptoms, please go to a doctor or clinic.
Why does my baby
have a cold?
When your baby has a cold, your first instinct is probably to worry and want them to get better immediately. Unfortunately, babies are not allowed to have cold medicine, so you will need to do your best to soothe your baby’s cold with natural methods.
A cold is a viral infection of your baby’s nose and throat. The most noticeable signs of a cold are nasal congestion and a runny nose. These viruses can spread through skin-to-skin contact, droplet transmission from coughs or sneezes, and contact with an object that’s been infected.
Babies and small children often get runny noses because they haven’t yet had the chance to build up protection and immunity against the different cold viruses. Keep in mind that there are more than 200 viruses known to cause colds. Your baby can pick up these viruses from being touched, cuddled, kissed, and playing with toys.
Signs of a baby’s cold include:
- Irritability or fussing
- Red eyes
- Lack of appetite
- Trouble sleeping or staying asleep
Your baby may also find it difficult to breastfeed or drink milk due to a stuffy nose. It’s important to treat cold symptoms as quickly as possible, especially if they make your child uncomfortable, cause trouble sleeping or the cough is bothersome. Be sure to check with your doctor before giving your baby any medication.
Can babies use ointments and rubs?
Many chest rubs contain ingredients like camphor, eucalyptus oil, and menthol. These are designed to be applied to the chest or neck, where the vapours can be inhaled to help ease coughing and congestion. While some parents find that this can bring temporary relief, standard medicated vapour rubs are not considered safe for infants.
However, some brands make gentler versions specifically formulated for babies aged six months and older. Always check the label carefully and ask a doctor or pharmacist first before using any ointment or rub on your baby.
Tips to help soothe baby’s cold
A stuffed-up nose can make it difficult for your little one to breathe or sleep. Use a suction bulb to gently pull out the extra mucus. Ask at the clinic or pharmacy for over-the-counter saline nose drops to help soften the mucus before suctioning.
- If possible, invest in a cool-mist humidifier to place around your baby’s cot. Moist air can help reduce congestion and make breathing easier.
- Lift the head of the cot by positioning a folded towel under the mattress to make breathing easier for your baby.
- Lightly dab petroleum jelly under your baby’s nose to help prevent red skin, soreness and chapping.
- Extra fluids will help to thin out the mucus and make it easier to remove.
- Try water, juice, and infant electrolyte solutions that you can get from the pharmacy. Offer your baby these drinks in between regular breastmilk or formula feedings. If your baby isn’t eating solids yet, continue with breastfeeding or formula bottles.
When to take your baby to the doctor or clinic
- Your baby has difficulty breathing or you notice rapid breathing.
- Your baby has a fever (above 38°C).
- There is persistent coughing or wheezing.
- Your child refuses to feed or has difficulty feeding.
- Shows signs of dehydration (such as fewer wet diapers, dry mouth, or no tears when crying).
- Baby is excessively sleepy or irritable.
Always err on the side of caution with a newborn and get medical help if you’re unsure about anything. Most colds will clear up on their own within a few days, but if your child is still congested after two weeks, is running a fever or shows signs of dehydration, please call your doctor or visit a clinic.
Images: Pexel
