How do you treat a cold in a breastfed baby?

Understanding Colds in Breastfed Babies
When a breastfed baby catches a cold, it can be concerning for parents. However, there are effective ways to manage the situation while ensuring the baby remains comfortable and well-nourished.
Continue Breastfeeding
One of the most important aspects of treating a cold in a breastfed baby is to continue breastfeeding. Breast milk is not only a source of nutrition but also provides essential antibodies that help bolster the baby’s immune system. Even if the breastfeeding parent is experiencing cold symptoms, it is safe to breastfeed. The viruses that cause colds do not pass into breast milk, meaning the baby can still receive the protective benefits of breast milk without risk of infection from the parent.
Hydration and Comfort
Keeping the baby hydrated is crucial. For infants, this means offering frequent feedings of breast milk. If the baby is older than six months, parents can also introduce small amounts of warm water, broth, or chamomile tea, but it’s essential to avoid sugary drinks like sodas or juices. Monitoring the baby’s urine color can help ensure they are adequately hydrated; light-colored urine is a good sign.
Managing Symptoms
While most colds are mild and resolve on their own, some symptoms may require additional care. If the baby develops a fever or experiences discomfort, parents can consider using over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, but only under the guidance of a healthcare provider. For babies under three months, it’s particularly important to consult a doctor before administering any medication.
Creating a Comfortable Environment
To help alleviate symptoms, parents should focus on creating a comfortable environment for their baby. This includes maintaining a humidified atmosphere to ease nasal congestion and ensuring the baby is dressed appropriately for their comfort. Gentle suctioning of nasal passages with a bulb syringe can also help clear mucus, making it easier for the baby to breathe.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While most colds are manageable at home, parents should be vigilant. If the baby shows signs of severe illness—such as difficulty breathing, persistent high fever, or dehydration—it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly.
In summary, treating a cold in a breastfed baby involves continuing to breastfeed, ensuring hydration, managing symptoms with care, and creating a comfortable environment. With attentive care, most babies will recover quickly from a cold, allowing them to return to their usual happy selves.

Will my baby catch my cold if I breastfeed?

With most common illnesses like a cold or flu, it is safe to continue breastfeeding your baby as long as you take proper hygiene precautions like handwashing. Continuing to breastfeed will help you to maintain your milk supply and will provide your baby with protection against the illness you are experiencing.

How long does a cold last in breastfed babies?

Antibiotics do not treat illnesses caused by a virus, and as the name implies, only treat bacterial infections. Colds typically last seven to 10 days. Avoid giving your baby over-the-counter cough and cold medicines (unless instructed by your pediatrician).

Do breastfed babies fight colds faster?

The first milk that that comes out of breasts after giving birth–known as colostrum–is especially rich in antibodies. As you continue to nurse, your baby will take in more antibodies, which helps them resist illness and infection now and in the future.

Are breastfed babies less likely to get RSV?

Infants receiving (exclusive or partial) maternal milk had lower risk of RSV bronchiolitis. Partial breastfeeding reduces risk of hospitalisation.

How do I get rid of my baby’s cold asap?

Self care

1. Offer plenty of fluids. Liquids are important to avoid dehydration.
2. Suction your baby’s nose. Keep your baby’s nasal passages clear with a rubber-bulb syringe.
3. Try nasal saline drops. Your baby’s doctor may recommend saline nasal drops to moisten nasal passages and loosen thick nasal mucus.
4. Moisten the air.

How to help a breastfed baby with a cold?

If your baby has a cold, you can make things easier by trying to keep him or her upright while feeding. Use saline drops and nose suction tools (like a bulb) to ease your baby’s nasal congestion. If nausea or diarrhea is the culprit, nurse as much as you can to keep up your baby’s hydration.

Can a cold turn into RSV?

Most cases are mild, but for some children, an ordinary cold or flu can quickly turn into respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Severe cases may require emergency department treatment or hospitalization.

How can I prevent passing my cold to my baby?

The best defense against the common cold is commonsense precautions and frequent hand-washing.

1. Keep your baby away from anyone who’s sick.
2. Wash your hands before feeding or touching your baby.
3. Clean your baby’s toys and pacifiers often.
4. Teach everyone in the household to cough or sneeze into a tissue.

Is emergen C safe for breastfeeding?

Yes, you can take Emergen-C while breastfeeding, but it’s important to not exceed the recommended dosage. Emergen-C is a supplement rich in vitamin C, often used for boosting immune health. However, while vitamin C is crucial for both you and your baby, consuming it in large amounts can cause digestive upset.

How can breastfeeding mother get rid of cold?

Yes, there are several ways to manage cold symptoms without medications while breastfeeding:

1. Drink lots of water or other clear liquids. Clear liquids, especially warm ones, help break up mucus in your nose and chest.
2. Take a hot, steamy shower.
3. Use a humidifier.
4. Try a saline nasal spray or neti pot.
5. Rest.