Common Cold
Most babies suffer from some kind of cold before they reach their first birthday because their immune systems are still developing and they have a tendency to transfer germs by putting their hands (and most everything else they can get hold of!) into their mouths.
Older children who attend daycare or preschool can get as many as eight to 10 colds a year because they come into contact with so many viruses due to close proximity to other children.
Colds are caused by viruses that enter your child’s system through her nose and throat, causing the familiar symptoms of a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, sneezing, coughing and a fever that’s usually mild. They aren’t serious but because they weaken your child’s immune system they can expose her to other more serious infections. They can also cause feeding problems in babies because a stuffy nose can interfere with sucking and a sore throat can affect her appetite.
Treatment
Call your pediatrician if your baby is under three months, particularly if she has a fever over 100.4 degrees; if her symptoms seem to worsen after a few days instead of improving; if she starts wheezing, as this could indicate pneumonia or bronchiolitis; or if she starts tugging at her ear, as this could signal an ear infection.
Because colds are caused by viruses they don’t respond to antibiotics, so assuming there are no complications your pediatrician is likely to advise measures that will relieve your child’s discomfort. This may include giving a fever reducer such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen (never give your child aspirin, as this can cause a serious illness called Reyes syndrome). The FDA advises against giving children under two years of age cough and cold medication.
It’s important you keep your child hydrated, especially if she’s sweating off fluids because of a fever. Feed your breastfed or bottlefed baby as usual – if a stuffy nose is affecting your baby’s appetite, saline drops administered 10-15 minutes before a feed may help to reduce the swelling in her nasal membranes, especially if you then gently remove any softened mucus with a bulb syringe. A humidifier can help ease your baby’s breathing, as can a few drops of eucalyptus oil in a vaporizer.
Make sure your older child gets plenty of rest and fluids. A warm honey and lemon drink before bed may help her sleep more easily. If your child’s nose is sore from constant blowing, apply a little petroleum jelly around his nostrils.
Prevention
Breastfeeding boosts your baby’s immunity and she’ll also get antibodies to any colds you’ve suffered via your breast milk. You can boost your older child’s immunity by ensuring she’s healthy and fit – make sure she eats plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, especially those containing vitamin C (oranges, broccoli, cauliflower, spinach) in the winter months. Good hygiene habits, particularly frequent hand washing, can help prevent colds from spreading.
The information on this feature is intended for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your health, the health of your child or the health of someone you know, please consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional.
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Last Modified: 19/06/2007
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how old does my baby need to be before i can use a vapour rub like vics on his chest?
thank u very much 4 ur reply its a gr8 help. joseph n rachel aka lumpy2007
how old does my baby need to be before i can use a vapour rub like vics on his chest?
hi, ive use 'SNUFFLE BABE VAPOUR RUB" same as vics, on my daughter and it says for babies from 3 months. xx
how old does my baby need to be before i can use a vapour rub like vics on his chest?
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