Cold And Cough Medicine For 10 Month Old
As a new parent, it can be difficult to know what to do when your 10-month-old baby comes down with a cold and cough. It's natural to want to help your little one feel better, but it's important to remember that young babies can't have most over-the-counter cold and cough medicines. In this article, we will discuss some safe and effective ways to help relieve your baby's cold and cough symptoms.
What Causes Colds And Coughs In Babies?
A cold is a viral infection that affects the upper respiratory system, including the nose, throat, and sinuses. It's one of the most common illnesses in babies and young children. A cough is a common symptom of a cold, and it's the body's way of trying to clear the airways.
Babies can catch a cold from other people who are infected with the virus. They can also catch a cold from touching surfaces that have the virus on them and then touching their mouth or nose.
What Are The Symptoms Of A Cold And Cough In Babies?
The symptoms of a cold and cough in babies can vary, but they often include:
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Cough
- Sneezing
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Irritability or fussiness
- Difficulty sleeping
If your baby has a fever or seems unusually fussy or irritable, it's a good idea to call your pediatrician to make sure there isn't something more serious going on.
What Cold And Cough Medicines Are Safe For 10-Month-Olds?
Most over-the-counter cold and cough medicines are not safe for babies under 2 years old. This includes cough suppressants, expectorants, and decongestants. These medicines can cause serious side effects in young babies, such as drowsiness, irritability, and even seizures.
However, there are some safe and effective treatments you can use to help relieve your baby's cold and cough symptoms:
- Saline drops or spray: These can help loosen mucus in your baby's nose and make it easier for them to breathe.
- Bulb syringe: This can be used to gently suction mucus out of your baby's nose.
- Humidifier: Adding moisture to the air can help relieve congestion and coughing.
- Elevate the head of the crib: This can also help with congestion and make it easier for your baby to breathe.
- Plenty of fluids: Offer your baby breast milk, formula, or water frequently to prevent dehydration.
It's important to remember that these treatments may not cure your baby's cold and cough, but they can help relieve their symptoms and make them more comfortable.
When Should You Call The Doctor?
Most colds and coughs in babies will go away on their own within a week or two. However, there are some cases when you should call your pediatrician:
- If your baby is under 3 months old and has a fever of 100.4°F or higher
- If your baby is between 3 and 6 months old and has a fever of 101°F or higher
- If your baby has a severe cough or is wheezing
- If your baby seems to be having trouble breathing
- If your baby is not eating or drinking enough
- If your baby seems unusually sleepy or lethargic
If you're ever unsure about whether to call your pediatrician, it's always better to err on the side of caution and give them a call.
Conclusion
When your 10-month-old baby has a cold and cough, it can be a stressful and worrying time. However, it's important to remember that most colds and coughs in babies will go away on their own within a week or two. While over-the-counter cold and cough medicines are not safe for young babies, there are some safe and effective treatments you can use to help relieve your baby's symptoms. If you're ever unsure about what to do, don't hesitate to call your pediatrician for advice.