All-natural strategies to get through baby's first cold season.
By Paula Kashtan for TheBump.com
Cold season is here and you've got to make sure that baby stays safe and healthy. Since antihistamines and decongestants aren't safe to give babies, what's a mom to do? We've got some easy and effective non-medicinal alternatives.
Use Steam
Make your own steam room. Dress baby in light layers (no blanket), bring her in the bathroom and close the door, and run a hot shower. Sit for 10-15 minutes up to four times a day, and wipe baby's nose or use a bulb syringe afterwards. Remember -- never leave baby alone in the bathroom or bring her in the shower.
Keep Her Head Elevated
Keep baby in an upright or semi-upright position to encourage nasal drainage. You can also put a pillow under the on end of her crib mattress to elevate her head, but never put pillows in the actual crib.
Invest in a Humidifier
Use a humidifier to keep the air moist and prevent nasal secretions from drying out. Use filtered or distilled water (tap water can cause particle buildup and create filmy dust), and clean and dry it every day. Stay away from hot water vaporizers, which can scald or burn.
Hydration is Key
Give baby lots of fluid to thin nasal secretions and prevent dehydration, especially if baby has diarrhea.
Suck the Snot
Clear baby's nose with a bulb syringe. Squeeze the bulb, gently stick the tip in her nostril, then release.Ask your doctor about saline nose drops, which can also loosen mucus. (this was its own bullet, but I thought I could combine it)
Photo: Thinkstock / The Bump
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