If your baby is congested, has a runny nose, or is sneezing, you may wonder if she has a cold. Colds are very common in babies. It can be hard to know what to do when they get one. Do you need to rush your little one to the doctor? Or is there anything you can do at home to help them feel better? This post will give you all the information you need on how to deal with your baby's cold. Keep reading for tips on recognizing when your baby has a cold, what symptoms to look for, and how to treat it.
What Causes Colds In Babies
Due to the immaturity of their immune systems, infants are susceptible to the many viruses that cause these diseases. The cold virus is transmitted via the air when a sick person coughs or sneezes. Additionally, it settles on surfaces like toys and tables. When infants touch these surfaces and subsequently place their hands in their mouths, they provide the cold virus with an accessible entry point.
At day care, infants often get colds. Or, youngsters may acquire it from older siblings who carry the virus home from school, or from adults who shook hands with someone who should have remained at home.
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Symptoms
Babies with a cold usually exhibit symptoms of a cold one to three days after infection. In young children, symptoms may include:
- Coughing
- A runny nose should initially be evident but may become yellow or green.
- reduced hunger
- Fussiness
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Stuffy nose
- Trouble sleeping
- Sneezing
Treating Your Baby’s Cold
There's nothing worse than seeing your infant suffer from a cold. Luckily, there are several things you can do to help your little one feel better. Here are some tips:
- Make sure they're getting plenty of rest. This will help their body focus on fighting the cold.
- Keep them hydrated. Offer them lots of water, or even better, breastmilk or infant formula. You can also use a humidifier in their room to help keep their nasal passages moist.
- Ease their congestion. Use a nasal bulb syringe to suction out any mucus buildup gently. You can also use infant saline drops to help thin out the mucus. Be careful not to use more than the recommended amount, as too much saline can irritate delicate tissues.
- Help them stay warm. Make sure they've dressed appropriately for the weather and that they don't get too hot or too cold. A warm bath can also be soothing.
Typically, a baby's cold goes away after a few days. Antibiotics are ineffective because they kill bacteria; viruses are responsible in this instance. Do not offer babies and toddlers over-the-counter cough and cold medications. These products are ineffective in children under the age of six and may produce hazardous adverse effects in young children. The FDA discourages their use in children less than four years old. With a little TLC, your infant will feel better quickly!
Related Link: Baby Sounds Congested but Has No Mucus in Nose
Preventing Cold
Unfortunately, it is impossible to avoid every cold, particularly during the winter months when these viruses circulate often. But you may reduce your baby's chance of illness by following these tips:
- Keep your infant away from busy settings with a high number of germs.
- Do not allow smoking around your baby. Cigarette smoking might increase your infant's susceptibility to illness.
- Frequently clean your baby's toys with soap and water.
- Request that ill individuals stay away from your house.
- Do not allow anyone else to use your infant's cup, utensils, or clothes.
- Frequently wash your hands throughout the day. Request that anybody who handles your infant also wash their hands.
Related Link: Green Poop in Babies: How to Stop It Quick & Easy
Consulting a Medical Professional
In younger babies, contact the doctor at the onset of symptoms, particularly if your child has a high temperature. In actuality, cold-like symptoms may indicate a more severe condition, such as pneumonia or an ear infection. You will feel better if you investigate.
Regardless of your child's age, contact a doctor if you see any of the following more severe symptoms that last longer than a few days:
- Not desiring food or drink
- Unusual drowsiness
- Fever of 102 degrees or more
- Signs of dehydration, such as the absence of tears or a reduction in the number of wet diapers, include:
- Difficulty breathing
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Having a Healthy Baby
If you have a baby that has a cold, there is no cause for alarm. It's actually quite common for babies to catch a cold. This is due to the fact that their immune systems are still developing. Because of this, they're more susceptible to infection. However, there's no need to worry. Babies recover from colds quickly and usually don't experience any serious complications. Now you know what you can do to help your little one feel better. With a little TLC, your baby will be back to its happy self in no time.
Now that you know all there is to know about taking care of your baby when they have a cold, we hope you feel more confident and equipped. Remember to keep an eye on them; if their symptoms worsen, don't hesitate to call a medical professional.
Related Link: How to Help If Your Baby's Nose is Stuffy
