Coughing is often a symptom of an underlying illness. In children, a cough should be treated by a doctor if it is persistent, occurs in a child younger than three months of age, causes trouble breathing, brings up blood or is accompanied by a fever, according to BabyCenter. Most other coughs can be treated at home. Unless directed by a doctor, it is never advisable to treat a baby's cough with an over-the-counter cough medicine.
Nasal Irrigation
If a baby has a wet cough that seems to produce mucus, this is a sign of sinus drainage. Using saline nasal spray from a bottle that has been made in a smaller size, often marketed as baby saline spray, can help flush the mucus out of the nose and loosen thick blockage. Other irrigation methods, such as a neti pot, may be useful but are easier to use on older infants. Caregivers can use a bulb syringe to help suction the loose mucus and saline out of the nose.
Vapor Rub
BabyCenter recommends applying a specially formulated vapor rub to the baby's chest during sleep times. Other similar methods include placing a few drops of eucalyptus oil, menthol or mint oils onto a cloth and placing it under the baby's shirt. The vapors can help calm the underlying cause of the coughing.
Humidity
Warm, moist air can be soothing to a baby with a cough. Running a humidifier while the baby is sleeping or holding him in a bathroom while the shower is running are two natural methods of adding moisture to the air that the baby is breathing. Adding eucalyptus, mint or menthol oil drops to the water can intensify the effects.
Other Remedies
Providing the baby with ample opportunities to eat or drink formula, breast milk, water or juice can help thin the mucus that is contributing to the cough. KidsHealth recommends offering cool liquids and avoiding citrus or carbonated beverages. Try elevating the baby's head while sleeping by inserting a pillow under the mattress where the baby will be lying. This can encourage mucus drainage while the baby sleeps.
