Hi mam,
I have a month old daughter and due to weather change she has caught cough and cold. As she is so small that medicine cannot be given. Can you help me with things which can be done to reduce her cough.

Question

Accepted Answer

It's quite common for newborns to catch a cough and cold, especially with the change in weather. Since your baby is just a month old and can't be given most medications, it's important to use safe and natural remedies to ease her discomfort.

Here are some suggestions for a 1-month-old baby with a cough and cold:

1. Keep Her Warm and Comfortable:

Make sure your baby is dressed warmly, but avoid overheating. Use a soft blanket or layers to keep her cozy.

Keep the room temperature comfortable, ideally between 22-24°C (72-75°F).

2. Use a Humidifier:

A humidifier in the baby’s room can help keep the air moist, which makes breathing easier and can help loosen mucus. Make sure the humidifier is clean and free from mold.

3. Saline Drops for Congestion:

You can use saline nasal drops (a gentle saline solution) to relieve nasal congestion. These drops are safe for newborns and help loosen mucus in the nose. Use a nasal aspirator (bulb syringe) gently to clear out any excess mucus from her nose after applying the saline.

4. Keep Her Upright While Feeding:

If your baby has a stuffy nose, feeding while she is in a more upright position can help her breathe better while nursing. This can also help prevent milk from flowing back up.

5. Breastfeeding:

Continue breastfeeding as much as possible. Breast milk has natural antibodies that can help strengthen her immune system and fight off the infection. It can also provide comfort when she’s feeling unwell.

6. Warm Bath:

A warm bath can help soothe your baby and relieve some of the discomfort associated with a cold. It can also help clear her nasal passages and relax her muscles.

7. Avoid Exposure to Smoke:

Keep your baby away from any secondhand smoke or pollutants. Smoke can irritate the respiratory system and make the cold symptoms worse.

8. Monitor for Signs of Serious Illness:

If your baby has trouble breathing, a fever, or if the cough worsens, or if she seems extremely lethargic or uncomfortable, it’s important to contact your pediatrician immediately.

When to Consult the Doctor:

If the cold lasts longer than a week, if there’s wheezing, difficulty breathing, high fever, or if you notice any other concerning symptoms, consult your pediatrician. They may recommend a safe treatment plan or provide further guidance.

In general, most mild cold symptoms in newborns improve within a week or two, but it's always better to seek professional advice to ensure there are no complications.

Hi mam, I have a month old daughter and due to weather change she has caught cough and cold. As she is so small that medicine cannot be given. Can you help me with things which can be done to reduce her cough.