Has your baby caught a cold? That can be quite tricky, both for your little one and for you. A stuffy nose, difficulty sleeping, clinginess, and strong mood swings. Unfortunately, it is often part of it. But what exactly is a cold, how do you recognize the symptoms and above all: what can you do to help your little one feel better again? In this blog, we will take you through everything you need to know and give you useful tips to support your baby’s recovery.
What exactly is a cold?
It’s a familar phenomenon: running snot, mucus and a stuffy nose. Cold is an inflammation of the nasal mucosa, sometimes also in the sinuses or throat. It sounds harmless, and it usually is, but it can be quite stressful and inconvenient.
How do I recognize a cold in my baby?
It can sometimes be difficult to recognize the signs of a cold. Especially since babies can’t yet tell what’s bothering them . Still, there are some signs that your little one has a cold:
- Nasal congestion
- Sneezing
- Cough
- Watery eyes
- Clinginess
Usually, the symptoms clear up within two weeks. But please note: Does your baby have a fever above 38 degrees, is he or she younger than 3 months or does your baby show symptoms such as drowsiness, wheezing or no wet diapers? If so, contact your family doctor.
How long does an inspection take?
Colds in babies occur regularly. Usually, your little one will recover completely on its own within two weeks. Of course, it can be a challenge for you as a parent. Do you want to share your experiences or ask questions about your baby’s development? The Wonder Weeks app is a great place to get in touch with other parents. In addition, the app is packed with functionalities to keep track of jumps, for example. So convenient!
What can you do to prevent a cold?
A cold is part of life and is even good for the development of your baby’s immune system. It makes your little one more resilient! Nevertheless, it’s better to avoid re-infection. So, wash your baby’s hands and face regularly with a lukewarm washcloth. Ventilate your rooms thoroughly, but ensure at the same time that your baby is not exposed to drafts. When your baby has a cold, avoid bathing or showering your baby, as it will unnecessary cost your baby energy. Rest and fresh air are the most important things now.
Relief during a cold
Even if you can’t accelerate your little one’s recovery, it is fortunately possible to provide relief. We have collected a few useful tips for you.
- Cold balm: Choose a natural balm that is safe for babies. It soothes, helps your baby breathe more freely and also to calm down. It will help your baby falls asleep more easily. For very little ones (1 – 2 months), you can place the open jar in your baby’s room instead of applying it topically.
- Saline solutions or inhalation oils: nasal drops with a mild saline solution or a special baby nasal spray can help. Use only natural products and be careful with essential oils.
- An onion next to the bed: a halved onion purifies the air and can make breathing easier. Place the onion close to your baby’s bed for about an hour before bedtime and then remove it.
- Additional liquids: Make sure to give your baby additional liquids to drink – either by breastfeeding or by giving your baby a bottle more frequently to prevent dehydration. Nutrition strengthens the immune system.
- Humid air: Make sure the air is not too dry. Steam from a steamy shower can help, but avoid diffusers with essential oils.
- Raise your baby’s head: Let your baby sleep with their head slightly raised, for example in a baby carrier or by tilting the bed.
- Peace and comfort: Avoid loud noises and crowds and dress your baby well. Just make sure the room isn’t too hot or too cold.
With these tips, you can make things a lot more pleasant for your little one. Are you concerned about your child’s health? Then consult your family doctor or a childcare clinic.
