One of the most worrying times for new parents is when their newborn gets their first cough or cold. Some parents are lucky. Perhaps it is the time of year when they are born, perhaps it is because they have strong immune systems, but some babies seem to miss the coughs and colds until two or three.

Some don't and it can cause parents a lot of concern and distress - so too baby.

Cold Symptoms

Being restless and upset may be the first sign that something is not quite right. This may also be accompanied by a slight temperature rise.

A runny nose will normally follow fairly quickly and it this that causes most distress to both baby and mother. The baby appears to struggle to breath and mother feels helpless.

Treating a newborn's cold

Never resort to over the counter medication. If you feel medication is warranted, see your doctor. There are very few over the counter medications that a newborn can take - most can have severe side effects including stopping their breathing, or turning the mucus into fluids which can effectively drown the baby.

One treatment that can benefit a baby is to use a saline nose drop treatment. This can flush some of the mucus away, particularly if used with a suction device - even an eyedropper, to draw the fluids out of the nose.

If you have any sort of heating (or cooling in summer) then the air may be quite dry. Place bowls of water around the room - these will help add moisture to the air. You can also try cool mist vaporizers as well.

There are products such as eucalyptus rubs and bath decongestants, these should only be used after seeking advice from a mothercraft nurse or pharmacist.

If the child appears to be in any discomfort then ask your pharmacist for a newborn pain relief product. There are several that can be used, however the instructions do need to be followed carefully.

Feeding a newborn with a cold

One of the hardest battles, especially for breast feeding mothers, is feed time. Baby is trying to suck, however with a stuffed up nose breathing is going to be difficult. Baby needs plenty of fluids to help combat any colds, so if necessary, offer the breast/bottle in smaller amounts more frequently.

Breast fed babies handle colds a lot easier as they often receive beneficial immune system boosters through the milk. Don't distress if baby doesn't seem to handle breast feeding well during this time. Persevere for long as possible as even the smallest amounts will help baby. If necessary, obtain a pump and collect your milk to use in a bottle.

A cough or cold normally takes up to ten days to go away. You know your baby so trust your instincts. If things don't feel right, take baby to the doctor or hospital as soon as possible.

Most importantly, stay calm, stay in control and stay healthy yourself. The more stress you place on yourself, the more likely you will pick up the same cough or cold from baby.

Learn more about this author, Les Scammell.
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