Cough and Cold in Newborns_ How to Get It Managed

1. Cough and Cold in Newborns: How to Get It Managed? Are you blessed with one or more children? You may be overjoyed with your family expanding, but at the same time, you need to be very responsible and take proper care of the health of your newborn. The initial few months for your child can be very hard to adapt to a new environment. As per Pediatrician in Delhi, Dr. Promilla Butani, ‘At this time the immune system is still developing, and your child is highly susceptible to illnesses. A cough and cold is a very common respiratory illness that your little one can easily catch.’ Having insights about newborn coughs and colds can make you less worried or panic, and even ensure that your child is getting treated and cared for timely in an appropriate manner. Keeping this in mind, here we bring up this post that focuses on causes, signs, treatment, home remedies, and prevention of newborn cough and cold. Causes of Cough and Cold in Newborns Typically, cold and cough in newborns is the result of an infection by a rhinovirus- a common cold virus. The illness is due to their immature immune system, when the virus spreads through the airborne droplets or direct contact with an infected person or surfaces. Signs of Cough and Cold in Newborns Newborns can’t verbally express their problems, and so it’s essential to recognize visual symptoms of cold in newborn and then know about options to manage them. Here are the common signs of a cold, noticeable in a sick newborn: ● Runny or stuffy nose, having a clear or yellowish nasal discharge ● Repeated sneezing to clear, tiny nasal passages ● A mild cough accompanying a cold ● Low-grade fever (in some cases) ● Appetite and weight loss due to nasal congestion ● Irritability or fussiness ● Difficulty sleeping ● Troubled breathing/ noisier breathing at the time of feeding and sleeping. If a newborn shows the above-mentioned signs, it’s recommended to take the newborn to a paediatrician. Immediate attention from a General pediatric doctor in Delhi can help to avoid complications if the newborn is having: ● Difficulty in breathing or wheezing ● High fever ● Cough for more than a week

2. ● Dehydration or poor nursing ● Bluish discoloration of lips or nails ● Signs of ear infection. Treatment for Newborn Cough and Cold Here are some effective tips and remedies by which newborns can be treated for their cough and cold: ● Keeping Baby Hydrated. Newborns get enough fluids through breastfeeding or formula feeding. With proper hydration through their feed, their mucus can be loosened to be easily expelled from their nose or mouth. ● Use of a Bulb Syringe or a Nasal Aspirator. These nasal decongestant tools can be used along with saline drops to ease congestion and suck out dislodged mucus, thereby clearing blocked respiratory passages and improving breathing. ● Use of a Cool-Mist Humidifier. This will add moisture to the air to help soothe a newborn's cough by relieving nasal congestion. However, the use of a humidifier can cause mold and bacteria to grow and flourish, which is why regular cleaning is a must to avoid other illnesses. ● A Steamy Bath. A 10-15 minute steam bath would make the baby breathe in warm, moist air. This can help loosen mucus and alleviate nasal congestion. ● Keeping Baby’s Head Slightly Elevated. If the baby is having a stuffy nose and difficulty in breathing due to nasal congestion or a lot of coughing, make sure the baby lies with the head elevated. ● Providing Baby with a Comfortable Resting Space. To allow newborns to build a healthy, strong immune system capable of fighting cold and cough, ensure that the newborn is getting enough restful sleep. For improved sleep, dress the baby in comfortable, warm clothing, give them cuddles, and make their sleeping environment cosy, peaceful, and quiet. ● A Massage Therapy. With baby-safe oil or balm on the baby's chest, feet, and back, gently massage to relieve congestion and improve circulation. ● Avoiding Giving Baby Medications Without a Doctor’s Prescription. Decongestants and cough syrups should not be given without a paediatrician's prescription. Prevention of Newborn Cough and Cold

3. To minimize the risk of newborns catching a cold and cough, the parent, caretaker, or anyone else must: ● Practice proper hand hygiene before handling a newborn. ● Keep the newborn away from sick people and crowded places. ● Strengthen the baby’s immune system and keep the baby hydrated with breast milk or formula. ● Keep the surroundings of the baby clean and disinfected. ● Dress the baby appropriately for the weather. Where to Get Your Newborn Treated for Cough and Cold? Personalised, best newborn care and affordable treatment for cough and cold in newborns are available with Top Pediatric Doctor in Delhi, Dr. Promilla Butani. She has 40+ years of experience as a child specialist. Book a consultation today to ensure your newborn health.