Infant Runny Nose Cures

Most babies have 8 to 10 colds per year during their first few years of life. The most common symptoms are nasal congestion and runny nose. See your doctor as soon as you see any sign of illness, and follow his instructions. However, there's no cure for the common cold. To relieve your baby's runny nose, your best bet is to do what you can at home to increase her comfort until she's feeling better.

Hydration

• According to MayoClinic.com, staying well hydrated plays an important in battling a cold. When your baby has a stuffy nose, it isn't always easy for her to drink her normal amount of fluids. Encourage your little one to consume the same amount of fluids as when she's healthy. Breast-feeding can be especially beneficial to sick babies, as mother's milk contains protection from the germs that can cause colds.

Humidity

• Humid air benefits anyone suffering from a cold. Humidity helps to prevent mucous membranes from drying out, which can worsen cold symptoms. Use a humidifier in your baby's room while he's sleeping to help him breathe easier and rest better. Be sure the humidifier is not pointed directly at his bed, which can cause the sheets to become damp.

  Steamy showers are another great way to provide humid air. If you don't feel comfortable standing in the shower with your child, run the shower so the bathroom air becomes steamy, then stand in there with your baby---even a few minutes can bring results.

Loosen and Remove Mucus

• Using an over-the-counter saline solution can help to loosen some of the mucus in your little one's nose. Talk to your pediatrician about what he recommends for your child.

  Suction the mucus using a rubber-bulb syringe. The Mayo Clinic recommends that you start by squeezing the syringe so it contains no air. Then insert it into one nostril about 1/4 to 1/2 inch, pointing it toward the back and side of the nose. Hold the tip in place and release the bulb. Carefully pull the tip out of the nostril and squeeze the contents into a tissue. Repeat as often as needed for your baby's comfort. Clean the syringe using soap and water.