What Are the Treatments for a Cold in a Baby?

When babies have a cold it is important to monitor their temperature and consider taking them to the doctor if the cold lasts for longer than a week or seems to get suddenly worse. Some natural treatments for a cold can be done at home and will help make your child more comfortable while he is getting well.

Saline Drops and Aspirator

• Saline drops are all-natural and will help to moisturize your child's nose. Pour a few drops of saline into your child's nose, and then apply suction with the nasal aspirator. Aspirators clear out the gunk from your child's nose and help to relieve a stuffy nose. Try doing this before your child eats, especially if you have an infant, as it is hard for them to nurse with a stuffy nose.

Fluids

• Make sure that your child has plenty to drink when they are sick. Offer your child a variety of juice, water and liquids such as Pedialyte. Unless your child is nursing, or still using formula, it is best to stay away from any type of milk products, as these tend to produce phlegm. Remember that fluids are especially important if your child is feverish. Even if your child doesn't want to eat, getting him to drink will help to put him on the road to recovery.

Vaporizer

• Use a vaporizer to loosen up the congestion in your child's nose and to make breathing easier. You can either use a cool mist vaporizer or a hot-water vaporizer. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends using a cordless vaporizer to avoid any potential hazards such as burns. Most vaporizers reduce the steam that will help clear up nasal passages. Some vaporizers use a medicated patch that contains menthol. If you don't have access to a vaporizer, turning on the shower and standing with your child near the hot steam may also help clear nasal passages.

Prevention

• You may not be able to keep your kids from ever getting sick but you can help them avoid as much illness as possible by taking a few precautions. Keep them away from other sick children and keep them home when they are not feeling good. Make sure toys are cleaned and sanitized and try to teach babies to not share drinking cups and utensils. Wash your babies' hands frequently and begin to teach them as soon as possible about the benefits of keeping their hands clean.