Common Cold
It can be upsetting to see your baby suffer his very first cold as they may have trouble sleeping, feeding and will generally be more agitated than normal. It is important to remember that your baby will get better from the cold with a little tender loving care. Colds are very common and are often not serious. Most doctors would recommend taking Calpol for 2 month old babies and upwards but the exact dosage of Calpol will be stated in the instructions.
Colds can often make babies suffer from the following additional symptoms such as:
- Fever
- Sore Throat
- Runny Nose
- Restlessness
- Lack of Appetite
It is important to remember that some babies may have trouble breathing due to a stuffy nose. Keeping the room well ventilated and checking on your baby’s breathing is important when they have a cold. You can help your baby by blowing their nose for them as they may be too young to do it themselves and it will inevitably be difficult for them if there is a build-up of mucus. Your baby’s cold should subside after 10 days however if it still persists you should visit your doctor.
What should I do if my baby develops a cold?
If your baby does develop a cold you could encourage your baby to breastfeed, as this helps him to feel hydrated. You can also try giving your baby infant medication such as Calpol for 2 month old babies or, if they are younger infant, Paracetamol syrup. You can clarify which medication is best to take with your doctor if you have any further concerns. In some cases where babies have trouble breathing a vapour rub may be helpful such as Karvol.
If your baby is very young and under three months old it is advised to take them to the doctor as their immune system is still developing.
Baby Health Concerns:
Mother, Baby and Beyond
- Pregnancy & Birth Guide
- Mother, Baby and Beyond
- Baby calendar
- Newborn Baby’s Check-ups and Tests
- Newborn Babies’ Appearance
- Bonding with Your Baby
- A Guide to Sleeping for Mother and Baby
- Coping with a Crying Baby
- Sibling Bonding
- The Father’s Role
- Postnatal Health
- Baby Predicaments
- Sex after Childbirth
- Weaning and Moving onto Solid Foods
- Travelling with a Newborn Baby
- Losing Baby Weight
- Baby Health Concerns
- Breastfeeding
- Caring for your child
- Looking after Twins
- Baby vaccinations
- Caring for your newborn
- Mother and Baby Myths
- Mother and baby development FAQ
Related Guides
- Pregnancy & Birth Guide
- Guide to Getting Pregnant
- Guide to Pregnancy
- Guide to Giving Birth
- Guide to Pregnancy Tests
- Mother, Baby & Beyond Guide
- Guide to Pain Relief in Labour
- Guide to pregnancy scans
- Pregnancy calendar guide
- Baby calendar guide
- Child development calendar guide
- Guide to miscarriage
- Guide to breastfeeding
- Guide to sleeping for mother & baby
- Guide to birth defects
- Guide to Post Natal depression