My 7 month old is coughing many times today...how to cure the same

Question

Accepted Answer

Mostly  cough cold episodes are viral in origin.

They may subside by 3 -9 days

No need of any medication if mild.

If cough and cold then need steam inhalation, nasal decongestant drops (nasivion baby nasal drops 1drop in each nostril 3-4 times a day for 3 days).

And cough syrp or drops as per babys

Cough condition  (wet or dry).

Keep ur baby well hydrated in cough cold  episodes

Proper hand washing, keeping away ur baby from other infected persons, exclusive breast feeding ur baby till 6months of the age, will help for fast recovery.

If decreased urine output, refusal to feed, decreased activity, breathing difficulty

Then need to consult with nearest pediatrician once.  
wl

Accepted Answer

For a 7-month-old baby who is coughing frequently, it's important to address the issue gently and safely. Here are some steps you can take to help relieve your baby's cough:

### 1. **Maintain Hydration:**
   - **Breast Milk or Formula:** Continue breastfeeding or giving formula as usual. Staying hydrated can help soothe the throat and thin out mucus.
   - **Warm Fluids:** If your baby has started on solids, offering small sips of warm water or clear broth can help soothe the throat.

### 2. **Use a Humidifier:**
   - **Moist Air:** Running a cool-mist humidifier in the baby’s room can help keep the air moist, which may ease coughing, especially at night.
   - **Steamy Bathroom:** Alternatively, you can sit with your baby in a steamy bathroom for a few minutes to help loosen mucus.

### 3. **Elevate the Head:**
   - **Sleeping Position:** Slightly elevating your baby’s head while sleeping (e.g., by placing a rolled towel under the mattress) can help reduce coughing at night. Ensure this is done safely without using pillows directly under the baby.

### 4. **Honey (Only if 1 Year or Older):**
   - Since your baby is only 7 months old, avoid honey as it can cause botulism in infants under one year old.

### 5. **Gentle Chest Rubs:**
   - **Baby-Safe Chest Rub:** You can use a baby-safe chest rub (designed for infants) to gently massage your baby's chest, which may help ease congestion and coughing.

### 6. **Keep the Baby Upright:**
   - **Hold Upright:** Hold your baby in an upright position, especially after feeding, to help reduce coughing caused by reflux or postnasal drip.

### 7. **Limit Irritants:**
   - **Avoid Smoke:** Ensure your baby is in a smoke-free environment, as smoke can irritate the respiratory tract and worsen coughing.
   - **Fragrance-Free:** Avoid using strong perfumes or air fresheners around the baby.

### 8. **Consult a Pediatrician:**
   - **When to See a Doctor:** If the cough persists for more than a day or two, or if it’s accompanied by other symptoms like difficulty breathing, wheezing, fever, or poor feeding, contact your pediatrician immediately. They can determine if there’s an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.

It's important not to give over-the-counter cough medicines to babies, as they are not recommended for children under 2 years old. Always consult your pediatrician before giving any medication to your baby.