Surviving Baby's First Cold
Ugh. It's that time of year when the common cold hits, and hits us hard. It actually just had both my daughter and I down a couple weeks ago.
And you may have heard those words, "It's just a cold, give it a week and they will be better." Yes, it may just be a cold. But most of the time a cold means, sleepless nights, frustrated feedings, and days full of irritated baby/toddler tears.
And there is nothing worse than having a sick baby, and not knowing what to do for them. Or not knowing exactly what their needs are, since they can't tell you.
Thankfully, we got over this cold fairly quickly! That is what inspired me to write this post! Hopefully, these tips/items will help all you other mamas/dads kick that common colds butt when it strikes your household!
Items/Tips For Surviving Baby's First Cold
Saline
One thing that consistently works when it comes to a cold, no matter the child's age, is saline. Saline is also one of the first things your pediatrician will most likely recommend for a baby cold. Just a warning, my daughter hates the saline spray, but it does work wonders!
You can also try the saline drops, if you think your little one will be more willing. They have great reviews and work in the same way as the spray.
Saline works by cleansing nasal and sinus congestion, and by moisturizing the nasal passages as well. These products are non-medicated and can be used as often as needed since it has no side effects or drug interactions.
Nose Sucker
We LOVE the NoseFrida nasal aspirator! It is gentle on the baby's nose and you get much more mucus out of the baby's nose as you are the one providing the suction from your lungs!
You may think the concept of the NoseFrida is somewhat disgusting, as every new mom probably has! Although, as a seasoned mom, you know this thing is a godsend!
Using the NoseFrida after the saline spray/drops is a must. As the saline spray loosens up the crusty boogers and sinus congestion, making the results of the NoseFrida that much better!
There is now an electric baby nasal aspirator! I have not tried this product yet, but it has great reviews and I think it may just be on my next Amazon purchase! We love all things electric, and if it works as good as our electric baby nail file, it is a WINNER for sure!
Chest Rub
This is actually Oaklynn's favorite! She is always reaching up at the cabinet (where it is kept) wanting more!
Mama loves it too, as it is a petroleum-free chest rub that features a blend of eucalyptus and lavender oils in a beeswax and shea butter balm. Soothe your baby without harsh chemicals or toxins!
When Oaklynn has a cold, I rub it on her chest, neck, back, and bottoms of her feet. Then either put on some socks or footie pajamas.
Cool Mist Humidifier
When a cold strikes a child, the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests running a cool mist humidifier, over night in baby's room, in order to provide relief from cough and congestion.
This cold mist humidifier is adorable, BPA free, provides 30 hours of continuous mist, and allows for added essential oil diffusing.
Pillow Wedge
Parents, you know how you typically feel better when you are sitting up, rather than laying down when you have a cold? This goes for children as well.
This is due to the fact, sinus pressure feels better when your head is higher than your body. When you are laying down, postnasal drip can intensify, resulting in a sore throat, congestion, and cough.
Thankfully, you can somewhat avoid the postnasal drip, with a baby crib wedge pillow. This pillow is constructed with the doctor-recommended 12 degree incline, which safely elevates your little one's head for improved sleep, reduction of spit-up, and congestion relief.
Elderberry Syrup
According to Pharmacy Times "Many people consider the elderberry plant one of the most powerful for preventing and treating colds and influenza and swear by its antiviral properties. The results of some studies show that elderberries do indeed have significant benefits against cold and influenza symptoms."
Sambucus Elderberry Syrup is made from European black elder and has been traditionally used as a winter remedy for immune support. Also safe for children as young as 1.
Boogie Wipes
Boogie wipes are so so worth it! My sister actually had them, and I used one on Oaklynn, and instantly became hooked.
They are ideal for congestion relief, as they have natural saline that helps clean and dissolve snot and boogers. They soothe and moisturize with Aloe, Chamomile, and Vitamin E, meaning they are extra soft, safe and gentle for all ages. No more sore nose from wiping with a regular tissue.
Seriously, I don't go anywhere without these anymore! They smell so good and are fairly large, so I actually cut them in half to get more out of them as well! They are the G.O.A.T of boogie wipes!
Infant Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
With a fever, your baby can be irritable and uncomfortable. Although, Tylenol can help bring the fever down and make your baby more comfortable.
When giving Tylenol, make sure it is infant/children's Tylenol (depends on age of sick child) and you are giving the correct dosage. If there are two choices of dosage, either age or weight, go with weight, as it tends to be more accurate. Although, it is always a good idea to check with your physician on dosage!
Here is a handy little chart to the Mayo Clinic for Acetaminophen Dosage for Fever and Pain.
Vapor Bath Bomb/Vapor Drops
I personally have not given the vapor bath bombs a try. Some moms say they worked wonderfully, while other moms say they were not potent enough.
Although, when my child is not feeling well, I will give anything a shot if there is a chance it will make them feel better.
I could not get it to link directly to the vapor bombs, so I linked to the sleep bombs instead. Once you are on this page, there is an option for "customers who viewed this item also bought," where the vapor bombs should be listed! Although, these are recommended for children 2+ years.
I have not used the vapor drops either, but moms seem to love these as well! I would actually, probably even say more! Either drop them in the bath or in the humidifier for easier breathing. Suitable for 3+ months!
Cold Tablets
It was a hit and miss thing when it came to Oaklynn taking infant Tylenol. Sometimes she would take it with ease (due to this paci oral dispenser, shown in photo with Tylenol above), and other times she would refuse. So during the times she refused, I would give her Hyland's Baby Cold Tablets instead.
They are quick-dissolving tablets that melt in your baby's mouth to relieve runny nose and eyes, cough, congestion, headache and sneezing due to the common cold.
I adore them as they are fast acting, babies are more willing to take them than other medicines, and they are safe, and all natural.
Shower Steam
Something as simple as sitting in the bathroom with your child while running a steamy shower can help with congestion. As steam thins mucus and then helps drain it from your nose.
As always, check with your baby’s pediatrician to assure that their sickness is certainly a cold. Some signs of concern may include a temperature of 101ºF or higher, child does not want to drink fluids and is no longer having wet diapers, having trouble breathing, has a persistent cough, running a fever and seeming apathetic, symptoms are not getting better within a few days.
I sure hope that the above list helps your little one to get to feeling better, quickly!
If you have tried any of the above remedies, I would love to hear all about your results! Or if there is something that has worked wonders for you, but is not on the list, I would love to hear all about it in the comments as well!
Thank you so much for stopping by! I greatly appreciate it! And best wishes for good health!
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