Cough And Cold Medicine For 9 Month Old
When a baby catches a cold or cough, it can be a stressful experience for parents. Not only does it cause discomfort to the baby, but it can also lead to sleepless nights and missed days of work for parents. As a result, parents may resort to giving their 9-month-old babies cough and cold medicine to ease their symptoms. However, it's important to know that not all cough and cold medicines are safe for babies, and some may even be harmful. In this article, we'll discuss the best cough and cold medicine for 9 month old babies, as well as some precautions parents should take.
What Causes Cough and Cold in Babies?
Colds are caused by viruses that can be spread through the air or by touching contaminated surfaces. Babies are more susceptible to colds because their immune systems are not fully developed. Symptoms of a cold include stuffy or runny nose, cough, and fever. Coughs are usually caused by a virus, but can also be caused by allergies or irritants such as smoke or dust.
Are Cough and Cold Medicines Safe for 9 Month Old Babies?
Most cough and cold medicines are not recommended for babies under the age of 2, and some are not safe for children under the age of 6. This is because these medicines can cause serious side effects such as rapid heart rate, convulsions, and even death. In addition, babies under the age of 2 have smaller airways and may be more susceptible to the side effects of cough and cold medicines. Therefore, it's important for parents to speak with their pediatrician before giving any medication to their 9-month-old baby.
What are the Best Cough and Cold Medicines for 9 Month Old Babies?
There are some cough and cold medicines that are safe for babies under the age of 2, but they should only be given under the guidance of a pediatrician. These medicines include:
- Acetaminophen: This is a pain reliever and fever reducer that is safe for babies. It can help relieve the discomfort associated with colds and coughs.
- Ibuprofen: This is another pain reliever and fever reducer that is safe for babies over 6 months of age. It can also help relieve the discomfort associated with colds and coughs.
- Nasal saline drops: These can help relieve a stuffy nose and make it easier for babies to breathe. They are safe for babies of all ages.
- Hydration: Keeping babies hydrated is important when they have a cold or cough. Breast milk or formula is the best choice for babies under 6 months of age, while water or diluted juice can be given to babies over 6 months of age.
Precautions to Take When Giving Cough and Cold Medicines to 9 Month Old Babies
When giving cough and cold medicines to 9 month old babies, parents should take the following precautions:
- Always consult with a pediatrician before giving any medication to your baby.
- Read the label carefully and follow the dosage instructions closely.
- Never give adult cough and cold medicines to babies.
- Do not give more than one type of cough or cold medicine at a time.
- Do not give cough and cold medicines to babies who are already taking other medications, unless directed by a pediatrician.
- If your baby experiences any side effects from cough and cold medicine, stop giving it to them immediately and contact your pediatrician.
Prevention of Colds and Coughs in Babies
Prevention is always the best course of action when it comes to colds and coughs in babies. To help prevent your 9-month-old baby from getting sick, take the following steps:
- Wash your hands frequently and encourage others to do the same.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces that may be contaminated with germs.
- Make sure your baby is up to date on their vaccinations.
- Avoid exposing your baby to tobacco smoke or other irritants.
- Keep your baby away from large groups of people, especially during cold and flu season.
Conclusion
When it comes to giving cough and cold medicine to 9 month old babies, it's important for parents to be cautious and consult with a pediatrician. While there are some medicines that are safe for babies under the age of 2, they should only be given under the guidance of a medical professional. In addition, parents should take steps to prevent their baby from getting sick in the first place, such as practicing good hand hygiene and avoiding close contact with sick people.