When a baby has a cold, should you avoid covering them with too many blankets at night?
Disease description:
My cousin's baby has had a cold these past few days. Worried about catching a chill, we've been covering the baby with thicker blankets at night. But should I ask whether it's okay to use thick bedding when the baby has a cold?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
When a baby has a cold, it is indeed not advisable to cover them with too many layers at night. This is because excessive bedding or clothing may cause the baby's body temperature to rise, worsening cold symptoms such as fever and sweating. In addition, overly thick blankets may restrict the baby's breathing and lead to discomfort. During a cold, parents should ensure that the baby wears comfortable, breathable clothing and adjust the thickness of the bedding according to the indoor temperature. Generally, the blanket used by the baby should be slightly thinner than that used by adults to maintain a comfortable sleeping environment. At the same time, parents should also ensure proper indoor ventilation and avoid keeping the baby in a closed environment for extended periods.
