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Immature immune system makes babies susceptible to various diseases, including colds. There are about 200 types of viruses that can cause colds in babies. A cold in babies is characterized by a mucus or clear discharge from the nose, which can turn yellow or greenish after one week. In addition, babies may also experience coughing, red eyes, or a slight fever. Generally, babies still want to eat or play normally.Actions You Can Take At Home
The discharge of mucus when you catch a cold is actually a way to get rid of germs in the body. However, if too much mucus comes out of the nose it can interfere with the baby's breathing. Here are some ways to relieve cold symptoms in babies that parents can do at home: Place the baby in a room without air conditioning to reduce nasal congestion. If your baby is more comfortable in an AC room, use a humidifier or take advantage of hot water. You can add essential oils such as menthol.
If the baby's flu is particularly bothersome, dilute the mucus with salt water dripped down the tip of the baby's nostrils. Then, use a baby suction device to clean the nose.
Gently pat the baby's back to help relieve nasal congestion. Lay the baby on his stomach on his knees or let the baby sit on his lap leaning forward.
To avoid irritation, you can apply petroleum jelly on the outside of the nostrils.
Clean the nasal discharge or mucus that has hardened in the baby's nose. Use a cotton ball soaked in warm water.
You can give warm tea to babies over 6 months of age. This can help relieve nasal congestion.
Do not give drugs carelessly
A cold that does not interfere with the baby's diet or baby's activities, does not require special measures or baby cold medication. Avoid using over-the-counter drugs in children under 6 years of age because of the possible dangerous side effects. We recommend that the drugs given always under the supervision of a doctor. If the baby has a fever, then consult your doctor about the possibility of giving paracetamol or ibuprofen. Never give aspirin to babies, as this can cause dangerous side effects. Conditions to Watch Out for
Although the cold is one of the common diseases experienced by babies, there are several conditions that make parents need to be alert and immediately consult a doctor, including: A cold accompanied by a cough and a fever of more than 39 degrees Celsius in children under 3 months of age, or a fever of more than 40 degrees Celsius in children over 3 months.
The fever lasts more than two days.
Watery eyes or eye discharge appears.
The cough gets worse or, accompanied by rapid breathing, a wheezing sound is heard when the baby breathes.
Significant changes to eating or sleeping patterns, frequent drowsiness or fussiness.
Babies cry when feeding while rubbing or pulling their ears, and cry when placed in bed.
Colds don't get better after 7-10
Babies with immature immunity are at risk for various diseases. Therefore, a cold in a baby with severe symptoms should be watched out for. Consult a doctor for a suitable and safe treatment for the baby.