Over-the-counter cough suppressants and decongestants are no longer labeled for use with children younger than age four, leaving parents in a quandary about how to comfort young children and babies with colds and coughs. In most cases, the best strategy is to offer comfort measures and allow the cold to run its course. Watch your young baby carefully, though, for signs of more serious illness.
Natural Cough Supressants
Horehound, available at natural food stores, is very effective at reducing a wet cough in children and infants, according to Dr. Jerry Rubin of Denver, Colorado. Look for syrups that contain horehound, rather than lozenges for babies, and follow package directions carefully. Older babies may benefit from diluted herbal teas specially made to treat children's coughs. Do not add honey, though, unless your baby is one year or older.
Other Options
Offer extra fluids in the form of warm juices or diluted broth if your baby is old enough to take solid foods. Additional moisture soothes the nasal passageways and throat, relieving coughs. Add moisture to the air with a humidifier or vaporizer, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, but clean equipment daily to prevent bacteria from developing, and keep vaporizers out of the reach of children.
Cautions
Common cold symptoms can quickly lead to pneumonia or other serious illness in young babies, who lack the immune system to fight off disease. Call your doctor immediately if your baby is younger than three months and shows cold symptoms, such as a runny nose, congested nose, fever or coughing.
Watch older infants closely and seek medical attention if your baby isn't wetting as many diapers, has trouble sleeping, seems to have ear pain or has a cough for more than one week, according to MayoClinic.com. Seek immediate medical attention if your child shows signs of breathing difficulties, such as wheezing, rapid breathing and blue lips, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Considerations
A long-term cough, or a cough that occurs only at night, may indicate a more serious injury, such as gastroesophageal reflux or asthma, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Consult your pediatrician if your baby's cough is prolonged, especially in the absence of other cold symptoms.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Common Cold in Babies
- "Naturally Healthy Kids"; Dr. Jerry Rubin, et al.; 2006
- AskDr.Sears.com: Coughs, Colds and Sinus Infections
- "Caring for Your Baby and Young Child"; The American Academy of Pediatrics; 2009
