With infant cold medications being pulled from store shelves and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommending against cold and cough medicines for children younger than 2, many parents are left wondering how to treat the colds that are so common during an infant's first year. There's nothing you can do to cure your baby's cold, but easy home remedies can make her more comfortable while her body works to get rid of the cold virus.
Rest and Fluids
Make sure your baby is getting as much sleep as possible and offer breast milk or formula regularly in order to help him feel better and prevent the cold from getting worse, recommends BabyCenter. If your baby is older than 4 months, you can also offer him water from a bottle or sippy cup to increase his fluid intake.
Pain Reliever
A child-safe pain reliever can help ease your baby's discomfort and bring down a fever if she has one. Infants older than 6 months can take ibuprofen, and acetaminophen is considered safe for babies of all ages, according to the Mayo Clinic. Use medications formulated for infants and call your baby's doctor before administering them to learn the recommended dosage for your child's age. Never give your baby aspirin, which can cause Reye's syndrome, a potentially fatal condition, in children younger than 18.
Humidifier or Vaporizer
A humidifier or vaporizer placed in your baby's room while he sleeps moistens the air he breathes, helping to clear a stuffy nose and relieve chest congestion. If you don't have a humidifier or vaporizer, try running the hot water in the bathroom with the door closed until the room is steamy; sit in the bathroom with your baby and play, nurse or rock him until he seems to be breathing easier.
Nasal Drops
Saline nasal drops can help ease your baby's stuffy nose, especially if she's younger than 3 months. Place a few drops inside each nostril to thin the mucus, then use a rubber bulb syringe to suction out the liquid. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends asking your child's doctor which type of nasal drops to use before trying this method.
Elevating the Mattress
Placing a few folded towels under the head of your baby's mattress can create a slight incline that eases her breathing and relieves postnasal drip, says BabyCenter. For your baby's safety, never place any objects in the crib or directly under her head. They can create a suffocation hazard.
