Coughing, although it might sound worrisome, usually does not indicate any type of serious medical condition. Babies cough to keep the airways in their chest and throat clear from mucous secretions. For this reason, you usually do not want to discourage a productive cough since it can prevent your baby from developing pneumonia and other more serious conditions. Home remedies can help soothe and comfort your baby if the cough interferes with her ability to sleep or eat.
Significance
The Consumer Healthcare Products Association cautions against the use of cold and cough medicines in children under the age of 4 years since they lack proven health benefits in younger children and might have dangerous side effects. When treating your baby's cough at home, you can use an over-the-counter pain reliever to control his fever and soothing, warm liquids to loosen the secretions and soothe his throat.
Identification
Most coughs occur as part of a common cold infection, but some more serious illnesses, including whooping cough, croup and asthma, can also cause a cough. If this is your baby's first cold, call a doctor for reassurance. He can advise you on choosing an appropriate over-the-counter pain relievers for your infant, if necessary, and advise you of any complications you should watch for.
Dr. Iman Sharif, a pediatrician and medical editor at the Kids Health from Nemours website, also advises you to call if your infant is under 3 months old and has any fever or has been coughing for more than a few hours. Call regardless of your infant's age if you hear a whooping sound between coughs or wheezing or if your baby breathes more quickly than normal or appears to struggle with his breaths.
Time Frame
For infants aged 3 months to 1 year, the Seattle Children's hospital advises giving warm, clear liquids, such as water or apple juice, to treat the cough. You can give them 1 to 3 tablespoons up to four times a day. Ask your doctor before giving any fruit juices to infants under 4 months. Feed your baby breast milk or formula according to his regular pattern since plenty of rest and liquids can help him heal more quickly.
Prevention/Solution
MayoClinic.com recommends running a cool-mist humidifier in your baby's room to moisten the air, which can help loosen and thin out your baby's mucous secretions. Less congestion can lead to decreased coughing since your baby's airways will be clearer. If the coughing is especially severe, you might also sit with your baby in a warm, steamy bathroom until she appears less congested.
Warning
Although honey can coat the throat and make an effective, evidence-based home treatment for a cough in toddlers and children, do not give honey to children under 2 years old. Honey can potentially cause botulism in children under the age of 1, and the Seattle Children's Hospital cautions that few studies support its use in children ages 1 to 2.
