Nobody enjoys being sick. Lacking energy, heavy congestion, coughing, sneezing, and generally feeling crumby is enough to take it out of anyone. However, many new parents don’t think about their kid getting sick in the midst of the joys of having a little one. Unfortunately, no matter what you do, it is likely that your baby will catch a cold at some point. While being prepared ahead of time is wonderful, knowing what to do at the moment is also necessary. Continue reading for some of our tips for surviving your baby’s first cold.
Check in With Your Doctor
While it may seem like a no-brainer, many parents don’t actually think to call their doctor at the start of their baby’s first cold. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that parents contact their pediatrician right away at the first signs of a cold. It is quite likely they will want to see your child to make sure the cold doesn’t turn into something else. The CDC also says to call a physician if symptoms last for more than ten days without improvement or your child has symptoms that are severe or unusual.
Hydrate
One key component to surviving your baby’s first cold is to make sure they don’t become dehydrated. Do everything you can to ensure that your child is taking in at least the same quantity of fluids as they did before they became sick. This is especially crucial for breastfeeding mothers because it can be tough to gauge how much your newborn is ingesting. Additionally, a mother’s milk may contain enzymes and antibodies that can boost a baby’s immune system.
Use a Humidifier
When it comes to helping relieve congestion from your baby’s first cold, a humidifier is a huge lifesaver. The moisture in the air can help to break up mucus and provide relief for congested little one. You can also combine the use of a humidifier with nasal suction and saline drops to fight against one of the common cold’s most unpleasant symptoms. When using a humidifier, be sure to change the water daily and follow all manufacturer’s instructions.