#asktheexpert remedies on cough n cold on 5 months old

A. For a 5-month-old baby with cough and cold, it’s important to use only gentle, safe, and doctor-recommended remedies since babies this young are very sensitive. Here are some effective home care tips and remedies: Saline Nasal Drops: A few drops in each nostril can help loosen mucus and relieve nasal congestion. Follow with a gentle suction using a bulb syringe or nasal aspirator. Steam Inhalation (Indirectly): Run a hot shower and sit in the steamy bathroom with your baby for 10–15 minutes. This helps ease congestion—do not expose the baby to direct hot steam. Elevate the Head Slightly: Slightly elevate the baby’s head during sleep by placing a towel under the mattress (never directly under the baby’s head) to help with breathing. Breastfeeding: Continue breastfeeding frequently. Breast milk boosts immunity and helps fight infections. Warm Mustard Oil Massage: Lightly warm mustard oil with garlic and ajwain (carom seeds), cool it to a lukewarm temperature, and gently massage the baby’s chest, back, and soles of the feet. Humidifier: Using a cool-mist humidifier in the baby’s room keeps the air moist and helps ease coughing and congestion. Avoid giving any over-the-counter cough and cold medicines unless prescribed by a pediatrician. If symptoms worsen, baby has trouble breathing, high fever, or refuses feeds, consult the doctor immediately.