What should I do if an infant has coughing and runny nose?
Sep 13, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xie Zixing
Introduction
If your baby has cough and runny nose, it is likely a common cold. If there is no fever, you can give the baby small amounts of warm water and administer cold medicine. If there is no bacterial infection, cold symptoms will usually resolve within about a week. If, after three days of medication, the baby develops fever, cough, or runny nose, a bacterial infection may have developed as a complication.
Infants are prone to catching colds due to improper daily care. Common symptoms include coughing and runny nose. What should be done when an infant has cough and runny nose?
What should be done when an infant has cough and runny nose?
If your baby has cough and runny nose, it is likely due to a common cold. In the absence of fever, you may give the baby small amounts of warm water and administer over-the-counter cold medication. If there is no bacterial infection, cold symptoms typically resolve within about a week. However, if after three days of medication the baby develops fever, worsened cough, or persistent runny nose, a secondary bacterial infection may have occurred.
Cough and runny nose in infants are signs of respiratory tract infection or other respiratory conditions. These symptoms may negatively affect the baby's normal growth and development. Therefore, parents should exercise caution and use medications appropriately when such symptoms appear. Improper treatment may lead to more serious tracheal complications and worsening of cough. Hence, cough and runny nose in infants should be taken seriously by caregivers.
In daily life, ensure the child drinks plenty of warm water, avoids spicy, greasy, or irritating foods, and develops good living habits. Pay attention to keeping the child warm and prevent exposure to cold. Adjust clothing according to weather changes. If the baby’s cold symptoms are severe, seek medical attention at a hospital promptly and ensure adequate rest. We hope this information helps. Wishing you good health and happiness!
