Cough and Cold Symptoms in Young Babies
As the nights draw in and winter edges closer, the season of cough and cold symptoms invariably begin to set in.
It is a natural instinct for a parent to want to protect the baby from germs as much as possible.
Invariably though, the virus can easily be transmitted through close contact and air particles.
As a result of this, it’s likely that at some stage in the first 12-18 months a young baby is likely to show the symptoms of a common cold.
Cough & Cold Symptoms in a Newborn or Infant Baby
Symptoms of the common cold present in the same way as a child or adult, the following symptoms are normally visible:
Runny or Congested Nose
Nasal congestion is clear in appearance initially, turning to grey, green or yellow in appearance.
A runny or congested nose often decreases the baby’s ability to breathe naturally.
This can be uncomfortable for a new-born or infant baby to deal with an cause irritability and frustration.
Decreased Appetite
Due to an increase in nasal congestion, a baby will often experience a decreased appetite.
Whether breast or bottle feeding, keep your baby as upright as possible.
It is advisable to feed your newborn or infant baby little and often during the course of cough and cold symptoms.
A High Temperature
A fever of 37.5°C or above is often a symptom of coughs and colds in babies.
Monitor both your baby and room temperature on a regular basis.
Contact your GP or NHS Helpline if your baby is under 3 months old and has a temperature exceeding 38°C degrees.
Irittable and Unsettled Emotions
With the combination of blocked nasals and increased body temperature, a baby can become increasingly unsettled with cough and cold symptoms.
Subsequently, this can affect feeding and sleeping patterns and a very tired and frustrated baby.
Cough & Cold Treatment in a Newborn or Infant Baby
Fluid intake – The amount of fluid your baby is taking on board each day should be carefully taken into account. Regular liquid intake is important to avoid dehydration, something that young babies are at more risk of, compared to adults.
Medication – Paracetamol, often called Calpol can be administered to babies from two months of age, it is important to wait at least 4 to 6 hours between administering doses of paracetamol.
You should not exceed more than 4 doses of paracetamol in 24 hours.
Nasal Treatment – Running a cool-water humidifier in your baby’s room can help to ease nasal congestion.
Ensure that the water is changed daily, following the manufacturer’s recommended guidelines.
Furthermore, your GP may recommend saline drops for nasal congestion and help with improving a baby’s breathing.
This can help to loosen thick nasal mucus, in turn helping with improved breathing.
Monitoring Baby’s Temperature – If you suspect your baby is running a higher-than-normal temperature, it’s a good idea to check the baby’s temperature with a thermometer.
With a quick result, this can help you work out whether you should seek medical advice.
Ideally, you need a digital thermometer to get a fast, accurate reading.
You can buy these online or from the most well-known pharmacies on the High Street.
Once you have purchased a thermometer, it’s time to take your baby’s temperature. It is advisable to use the following technique:
- Hold the baby comfortably on your knee and put the thermometer in the baby’s armpit – always use the thermometer in the armpit with children under 5 years.
- Gently, but firmly, hold their arm against their body to keep the thermometer in place for however long it says in the manufacturer’s instructions – usually about 15 seconds.
Some digital thermometers beep when they’re ready. The display on the thermometer will then show your child’s temperature.
Always contact your GP or call 111 if your baby’s temperature is 38C or higher, under 3 months of age.
Or, your baby’s temperature is 39C or higher and 3 to 6 months of age.
When to Consult Your GP or NHS Helpline
The following NHS Guidelines state that if you spot any of the following signs or symptoms in your baby you should contact them via NHS 111 immediately.
- your baby is less than 3 months old and has a temperature of 38 °C or above
- your child is aged 3 months or older and has a temperature of 39 °C or above
- your baby has fewer wet nappies, nappies that seem drier than usual, or a dry nappy for 12 hours or more
- your baby’s having difficulty feeding
- your baby’s taking less than half their usual amount during their last 2 or 3 feeds
- you think your baby may have coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms
If you’re very concerned about your baby, trust your instincts and phone your GP or 111 for advice straight away.
In Conclusion
Seeing your baby go through the symptoms of a cold can sometimes feel distressing, and bring about a sense of hopelessness.
More so, when the baby is running at a higher-than-normal temperature and breathing is laboured.
If you are currently pregnant and planning the arrival for your newborn baby, you may find this article Bringing Your Newborn Baby Home useful.
