#asktheexpert

maam my son is 6 months old now and he is suffering from cough what should I do

Question

#asktheexpert

maam my son is 6 months old now and he is suffering from cough what should I do

Accepted Answer

If your 6-month-old baby is suffering from a cough, here are a few steps you can take to help relieve the symptoms:

1. Ensure Proper Hydration:

Breast milk/formula: Keep offering breast milk or formula regularly, as it helps keep your baby hydrated and strengthens their immune system.

Warm water: You can give small sips of warm water to your baby (if they are ready for it), which may soothe the throat.

2. Elevate Baby's Head While Sleeping:

When your baby sleeps, elevate their head slightly by placing a small pillow or rolled towel under the mattress. This may help ease the cough and allow them to breathe better.

3. Humidify the Air:

Use a humidifier in the room where your baby sleeps. Moist air can help ease coughing by loosening mucus and clearing the airways.

4. Saline Drops:

Saline nasal drops can help clear any nasal congestion that might be making the cough worse. Gently administer the saline drops and use a soft nasal aspirator to remove the mucus.

5. Keep Baby's Environment Clean:

Ensure your baby’s environment is free from dust, smoke, or strong fragrances, which can irritate the throat and worsen the cough.

6. Warm Bath:

Giving your baby a warm bath can help open up their airways and relieve congestion.

7. Monitor for Other Symptoms:

Keep an eye out for other signs, such as fever, difficulty breathing, or a persistent cough lasting more than a few days. If these occur, consult your pediatrician.

8. Avoid Over-the-Counter Medications:

For babies under 1 year, avoid giving over-the-counter cough or cold medications without the doctor’s recommendation, as these may not be safe.

When to Consult a Doctor:

If your baby’s cough persists for more than a few days, or if it is accompanied by:

Difficulty breathing

High fever

Wheezing or rattling sounds while breathing

Loss of appetite or extreme irritability

It's important to consult your pediatrician to rule out any underlying infections such as viral or bacterial infections.