Treating your baby for a cold can be tricky. First of all, sometimes it’s hard to tell if it really is a cold or just some nasal stuffiness. After all, infants can’t tell you how they feel or what the problem is.

Colds are a very common illness in children, and even babies tend to get their fair share. Just a little stuffiness and they can sound just awful. How do you prevent them from getting frequent colds?

Here’s how:

  • Use saline drops in their nose and suction frequently. This will go a long way to relieving a lot of the mucus that builds up.
  • Apply a thin coating of petroleum jelly or coconut oil under your baby’s nose.
  • Use a humidifier in their rooms to keep the air moist.
  • Assure that your baby gets lots of rest.
  • Give your baby acetaminophen or ibuprofen but only if they are older than 6 months. When giving any medication, it’s always a good idea to call your Glendale pediatricians for expert advice.
  • If someone recommends honey, politely refuse. Don’t give honey to children under the age of one.

There is so much advice out there on how to care for your baby, it all may seem confusing. Stick with the tried-and-true advice, especially when it comes to your kids.

Practice healthy habits from the start. Teach your children good hygiene, how to eat healthy foods and the value of getting a good night’s sleep every night. Know what flu symptoms in children look like: a sudden onset of fever, overall achiness and fatigue, a dry cough, sore throat and stuffiness in their nose.

Be aware that all surfaces carry germs. Doorknobs are some of the worst culprits; and toys, too. Have your children wash their hands frequently, and with your baby, clean their toys every day, as they are always putting them in their mouths anyway.

Usually, a cold or the flu will be on the mild side with a baby under a year old. If you notice your little one doesn’t seem to be getting better, or their skin color isn’t quite right or their fever increases, then be sure to call your Glendale pediatricians right away.

Always keep a special eye on your kids when they’re sick. Before you know it, they will back to their little lovable selves and ready for a new day.