#asktheexpert ..my baby is having cold cough since 10 days nd I'm giving ns with oxygen does it work

Question

Accepted Answer

I'm sorry to hear your baby is not feeling well. If your baby has been suffering from a cold and cough for 10 days, it’s important to evaluate the situation carefully.

Oxygen Use for Babies:

Oxygen therapy is typically used in a hospital or clinical setting for babies who are having difficulty breathing and have low oxygen levels. If you're administering oxygen at home, it should be under the supervision of a doctor or healthcare professional. Oxygen therapy can help if your baby is showing signs of respiratory distress, but it may not directly treat the underlying cause of the cold or cough (such as a viral infection or bacterial infection).

When Oxygen Therapy is Used:

Oxygen therapy may be needed if:

The baby has difficulty breathing or is breathing very fast.

There are signs of low oxygen levels, such as bluish lips or skin.

The baby is not feeding well, seems lethargic, or is unusually sleepy.

However, if the baby’s oxygen levels are not critically low, oxygen therapy may not be necessary. A cold and cough typically do not require oxygen therapy unless there’s severe difficulty breathing.

What You Can Do:

1. Monitor Breathing: Watch for signs of difficulty breathing (like rapid breathing, wheezing, flaring nostrils, or chest retraction). If you notice these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

2. Hydration: Ensure your baby is well-hydrated with plenty of fluids, as it helps loosen mucus and soothe the throat.

3. Saline Drops or Mist: Using saline nasal drops or a humidifier can help clear your baby’s nasal passages and make breathing easier.

4. Consult a Pediatrician: If your baby’s cold and cough are persisting for 10 days, or if you notice worsening symptoms like fever, difficulty breathing, or poor feeding, it’s essential to consult with your pediatrician. A cough that lasts this long could be a sign of a secondary infection or another condition like bronchitis or pneumonia.

While oxygen may provide temporary relief if your baby is having trouble breathing, it doesn’t treat the root cause of the cold and cough. It's important to follow your pediatrician's advice on managing the symptoms and treatment.