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Baby Health Tips -- How to Treat Colds in Infants

Infants, too, can have colds; and it may be less noticeable compared to adults since they’re a whole lot smaller. It is important to know that babies are actually more prone to developing the condition since their body resistance is still underdeveloped. They also have smaller nasal passages that can congest quickly. Check for nasal discharges, which are indicative of a cold, and learn the easy and reliable ways of treating it.

What should I do first?

Upon noticing the first signs of colds in an infant, immediately take him or her to your pediatrician. Tell the doctor all other signs you notice about your child. Babies are highly susceptible in developing more serious illnesses from a cold like pneumonia and tuberculosis. Your doctor should be the only person who prescribes medications and does medical treatment.

Protect your child from harboring other diseases due to a compromised immune system by spraying his or her room with antibacterial spray and disinfecting all baby items. Keep room temperature constant throughout the day to avoid chilling. Also, do not allow other people to have contact until the cold is fully gone.

Should I give medications?

A cold stems from a viral infection which cannot be treated with medications or antibiotics. The best approach is to improve the overall health of your baby until the virus expires on its own. Increase your child’s intake of fluids and give citrus juices as well. These are very effective in lessening mucus buildup in the passageway.

One useful drug that you may give is ibuprofen suspension which alleviates some symptoms should the cold come with a fever. You can also give liquid vitamin C and baby multivitamins with a dropper. Give a mild baby massage to relax your child’s muscles and breathing.

How can I treat the nasal discharges?

Use a rubber-bulb syringe to suction nasal discharges. Simply squeeze the bulb, position the tip of the syringe into your baby’s nostril then release the bulb. Do the same for the other nostril. Clean cotton swabs are also effective in removing crusts around the nostrils.

You may also install an air humidifier in your baby’s room to relax your child’s respiratory tract and improve breathing. Saline nose drops or sprays are prescribed by your pediatrician to treat hardened mucus. Remember that coughing and sneezing are useful mechanisms of the body to expel accumulated mucus. Once the discharges disappear, bring your baby again to your pediatrician for a follow-up checkup to ensure optimum wellness.

15.01.2008. 19:54

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