Health is a top priority for everyone, regardless of age. However, when it comes to babies, it is normal to be more cautious and guarded since their immune systems are not yet fully developed. Babies are particularly susceptible to the many viruses that cause the common colds, which can manifest through nasal congestion or a runny nose. To add to this, your little ones may be curious about many things. They may play around and touch many things then place their hands on their face or mouth, which can cause the germs to transfer.
With all that said, you must be prepared for your baby to get potential viruses or colds, especially during the flu season. Getting tools like the snot sucker can help you relieve your child of a runny nose and get rid of any built up snot. However, aside from this, there are many other ways to treat your baby’s colds and help them feel better. Follow these top tips to learn about what you can do if your baby catches a cold.
Skip the Medicine
For many adults, the go-to remedy for treating colds is usually to get an over-the-counter medicine. However, with babies, it is best that you stick to natural remedies to help them feel better. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends against giving colds or cough medicine to children under the age of two as these may have negative side effects like slowed breathing.
In some cases, your little one may need prescribed antibiotics if their condition is caused by a bacterial infection and not merely a cold virus. However, it is difficult to determine this on your own, so visiting your child’s pediatrician will be the best way to go.
Hydrate with Fluids
Give your child plenty of fluids to hydrate, stay healthy, and help relieve them from a stuffy nose. You do not necessarily have to give extra fluids, as long as you provide enough daily. If you are currently breastfeeding, it is highly recommended that you continue to do so as breast milk can offer additional protection from common colds viruses.
Suction Their Nose
Babies will often have a runny nose when they have colds, so using a snot sucker to clear out their nasal passage can help get rid of it. Since they are still unable to blow their nose on their own, it is important to suction their nose to ensure they can breathe normally. The tip of the device will usually come with a rubber bulb, which you insert into their nostril to suction the mucus. Repeat as often as you need to until their nose is clear, and make sure to clean the bulb after every use.
Use a Humidifier
Humidifiers can add moisture to the air, which can help with a stuffy nose or coughing. Make sure you use a cool-mist humidifier and change the water daily to keep the air clean and prevent bacteria from spreading even further. You may be able to achieve the same purpose by making a steam room with a hot shower to clear blockages.
The tips above are only some of the ways you can treat your baby’s cold, but if you notice unusual symptoms or find that the colds are not going away, you can pay a visit to the doctor. However, while waiting for your appointment, keeping your baby’s nose clear, giving them adequate rest, and offering plenty of fluids can help make them feel better.
