How to Get Rid of Infant Cough and Cold？

Coughs and colds are quite prevalent among infants, mainly due to their still – maturing immune systems. These underdeveloped immune systems render infants far more susceptible to the numerous viruses that are the culprits behind these common ailments. A cold in an infant can throw their entire routine into disarray. It often leads to restless sleep, with the baby waking up frequently due to nasal congestion or a bothersome cough. Feeding can also become a challenge, as a stuffy nose might make it difficult for the infant to latch on properly during breastfeeding or to suckle from a bottle. This disruption in sleep and feeding further impacts the baby’s overall mood, making them more fussy and irritable than usual.

Non – Medical Approaches

Keep Your Infant Hydrated

Hydration is of utmost importance. For infants, breast milk or formula should be the primary source of fluids. Breast milk not only provides essential hydration but also contains antibodies that can help boost the infant’s immune system. If breastfeeding, encourage frequent feeds. For formula – fed infants, ensure they are taking in an appropriate amount of formula. Hydration helps to thin the mucus in the respiratory tract. When the mucus is thinner, it becomes easier for the infant to cough it up, reducing the irritation that causes coughing. A well – hydrated infant is also more comfortable, which can have a positive impact on their overall state.

Nasal Saline Drops

Nasal congestion often accompanies a cold in infants and can contribute to coughing. Nasal saline drops are a safe and effective way to address this. Over – the – counter saline drops designed for infants can be used. To apply, lay the infant on their back with their head slightly elevated. Gently insert a few drops into each nostril, being careful not to touch the tip of the dropper to the nose to avoid contamination. The saline works to moisten the nasal passages and loosen the thick mucus. After using the saline drops, a bulb syringe or nasal aspirator can be used to gently suction out the mucus. This helps to clear the nasal passages, allowing the infant to breathe more easily and reducing the likelihood of post – nasal drip, which can trigger coughing.

Use a Humidifier

Dry air can exacerbate both coughs and cold symptoms in infants. A cool – mist humidifier can be a great addition to the infant’s room. It adds moisture to the air, soothing the nasal passages and the respiratory tract. The added humidity helps to keep the mucus thin, making it easier for the infant to breathe and reducing the irritation that causes coughing. Warm – mist humidifiers can pose a burn risk, so a cool – mist option is preferred. However, it’s important to clean the humidifier regularly to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria, which could further irritate the infant’s respiratory system.

Provide a Comfortable Environment

Create a calm and comfortable environment for the infant. Keep the room at a comfortable temperature, neither too hot nor too cold. A temperature around 68 – 72°F (20 – 22°C) is generally ideal. Swaddle the infant gently if they find it comforting. The sense of security from swaddling can help soothe a fussy infant. Spend extra time holding and cuddling the baby. Physical contact can be very soothing for an unwell infant. It can also help to calm them down, which may reduce coughing episodes that can be triggered by agitation.

Dealing with Newborn Chest Congestion

Gentle Chest Massage

A gentle chest massage can be beneficial for a newborn with chest congestion. First, make sure your hands are clean and warm. Place the baby on a flat, firm surface, like a changing table. Using the pads of your fingers, start at the collarbone and gently massage down towards the belly in a circular motion. Apply very light pressure, as the baby’s chest is extremely delicate. This massage can help to loosen the mucus in the chest, making it easier for the baby to expel. The physical contact can also be soothing for the baby, reducing any discomfort they may be feeling.

Elevating the Baby’s Head

Elevating the baby’s head while they are sleeping or resting can help with chest congestion. You can place a rolled – up towel under the head end of the crib mattress to create a slight incline. This position helps to prevent mucus from pooling in the chest and makes it easier for the baby to breathe. However, ensure the baby is safe and cannot roll off the elevated surface.

Steam Inhalation (with Caution)

Steam inhalation can help moisten the mucus in the baby’s chest. But it should be done with extreme caution. You can run a hot shower in a small, enclosed bathroom until the room fills with steam. Then, take the baby into the bathroom and sit with them for about 10 – 15 minutes. Keep a safe distance from the hot water to avoid burns. The warm, moist air can help to loosen the mucus, making it easier for the baby to cough it up. However, if the baby shows any signs of distress, such as difficulty breathing or crying excessively, immediately remove them from the steamy environment.

Medical Approaches

Consult a Pediatrician

Before considering any medication for an infant with a cough and cold, it’s essential to consult a pediatrician. Most over – the – counter cough and cold medications are not recommended for infants under 2 years old. These medications can have serious side effects, and their effectiveness in very young children has not been well – established. For example, some cough suppressants can suppress the normal cough reflex, which is the body’s natural way of clearing the airways.

Prescription Medications

If the pediatrician determines that medication is necessary, they may prescribe something specific to the infant’s symptoms. For severe nasal congestion that is interfering with the infant’s ability to feed or sleep, a very low – dose nasal decongestant may be prescribed for a short period. But this will be carefully dosed according to the infant’s weight and age. If the cough and cold have led to a secondary bacterial infection, such as an ear infection, antibiotics may be prescribed. These medications should only be used as directed by the doctor, and the infant should be closely monitored for any signs of adverse reactions.

When to Seek Urgent Medical Help

Difficulty Breathing

If the infant is struggling to breathe, has shortness of breath, or their ribs are pulling in with each breath (a sign called retractions), this is a medical emergency. Fast breathing, noisy breathing (such as wheezing or stridor), or a bluish color around the lips or face are also very serious signs that require immediate medical attention.

High Fever

A fever in an infant is a cause for concern. If the infant has a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, contact the pediatrician immediately. Do not give the infant any fever – reducing medication before consulting the doctor, as the wrong dosage can be dangerous. A fever can be a sign of a serious underlying infection, such as pneumonia, which may have developed as a result of the cough and cold.

Persistent Symptoms

If the infant’s cough and cold symptoms, such as a runny nose, cough, or fever, last for more than a few days or seem to be getting worse, it’s time to see the doctor. Persistent symptoms can be a sign of a more serious condition that requires medical intervention.

Caring for an infant with a cough and cold can be challenging, but by using non – medical approaches, seeking appropriate medical advice, and knowing when to seek urgent help, parents can help their infant recover and ensure their well – being.

Conclusion