Home Remedies to treat cough and cold in newborns (include cough in chest)

Are you worried about your little one’s cold and cough? It is normal for new parents to be extra cautious with their baby and get stressed if they see them sneezing, coughing or suffering with a runny nose. Newborn babies are more vulnerable to infections due to their delicate immune system. But there is nothing to panic about, as you can manage their condition at home and also seek medical help if required.

Is Cough Common in Newborns?

Yes! Newborns usually get a cough due to their smaller and more sensitive airways. If you notice occasional mild coughing or a slight congestion in your baby, this could be due to viral infections, environmental triggers or post-nasal drip.

However, if you notice a persistent cough with high fever, or difficult breathing, you should immediately consult a paediatrician.

Also Read: How do we get Pneumonia?

How to Treat Cold and Cough in Newborns?

There has to be a gentle and careful approach while treating cough and cold in newborns. Over-the-counter cough medicines are usually not recommended for babies under two years. These can have potential side effects. Instead, focus on comfort and supportive care:

• Keep your little one hydrated: Breastmilk or formula helps thin mucus and keeps your baby hydrated. Feeding may be more frequent if the baby is congested.
• Humidified air: Use a cool-mist humidifier in your baby’s room to ease nasal dryness and soothe irritated airways.
• Ensure Proper Rest: Adequate sleep supports your baby’s immune system and speeds up their recovery.
• Keep the surroundings clean: Regularly wipe surfaces and wash your hands before handling the baby to reduce exposure to germs.

Also Read: How to avoid Influenza?

When to Seek Medical Help for Your Baby?

Most colds in newborns are mild, but if your baby shows any of these signs, contact a paediatrician immediately.

• Difficulty breathing, wheezing or rapid breathing
• High fever (above 100.4°F / 38°C)
• Persistent vomiting or refusal to feed
• Unusual irritability or inconsolable crying
• A cough that lasts more than 2 weeks

Also Read: Asthma in Children: Recognizing Symptoms & Providing Treatment

Home Remedies to Ease the Cough

Though medical evaluation is important in certain cases, there are some home remedies that are safe and effective:

Remedy	How Does It Help?
Use of saline nasal drops	Gently clear nasal passages with saline drops, followed by suction using a bulb syringe.  This helps the baby breathe easier and reduces coughing caused by mucus.
Giving a steam therapy	Sit with your baby in a warm, steamy bathroom for a few minutes.  The gentle steam loosens mucus and eases congestion.
Positioning of the head during sleep	Placing a small and safe incline under the mattress can help with drainage.  Never put pillows directly under the baby’s head.
Frequent feeding	Breastmilk or formula keeps the baby hydrated, thins mucus, and supports immunity.
Warm chest compress	A soft and warm cloth placed gently on the chest may provide comfort.
Comfort and cuddles	Sometimes, holding your baby upright or gently rocking them can ease coughing episodes.

Important: Avoid honey, over-the-counter cough syrups, and essential oils for newborns as they can be harmful.

What Causes Cough in Babies?

The following are some key factors that can cause cough in babies:

• Viral infections: It is the most common cause and are usually mild and self-limiting.
• Allergies or irritants: Smoke, dust, perfumes, or strong cleaning agents can trigger a cough.
• Postnasal drip: Mucus accumulation in the nose or throat often leads to reflex coughing.
• Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD): Sometimes, stomach contents coming up into the throat can cause coughing.
• Rare respiratory conditions: In some cases, a persistent cough may signal infections like bronchiolitis or underlying conditions such as asthma.

Also Read: Interstitial Lung Disease: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Management

How to Prevent Cough and Cold in Newborns?

Preventing colds in newborns requires careful hygiene and environmental management. Below are some tips:

• Everyone should wash their hands thoroughly before holding the baby.
• Avoid contact with people who are sick.
• Keep the baby’s surroundings clean, dust-free and ventilated.
• Avoid smoke and strong fragrances because second-hand smoke and strong chemicals can irritate the baby’s airways.
• Ensure your baby is neither too hot nor too cold. Dress them properly.
• Do not miss any vaccination as they help protect against infections that could worsen cough and cold.

Even with precautions, mild colds are normal, especially during the first few months.

Takeaway

We understand that the health of your baby is of utmost importance to you, and seeing them suffer from a cough or cold can make you worry. But remember that a mild cough or cold is common in newborns, and if you feel anything unusual or the condition of your baby is not improving, you can always reach out to our expert paediatricians at the CK Birla Hospital. By combining comfort care with timely consultation, you can help your newborn recover quickly while ensuring their health and safety.

FAQs

1. Is cough and cold normal in newborns?
Yes. Mild cough and cold are common due to their developing immune system.

2. Can I give over-the-counter cough medicine to my newborn?
No, these medicines are not safe for babies under 2 years. However, you can use saline drops and supportive care instead. It is always best to consult a paediatrician.

3. How often should I feed my baby when they have a cold?
It is suggested that you provide smaller and frequent feedings to your baby to keep them hydrated and support recovery.

4. When should I call a doctor for my baby’s cold?
Contact a paediatrician if your baby has:

• Difficulty breathing
• High fever
• Poor feeding
• Persistent vomiting, or
• Unusual lethargy

5. Can a newborn’s cold turn into something more serious?
While most colds are mild, complications like respiratory infections can occur, so monitor your baby closely.

6. How can I prevent my baby from catching a cold?
Below are some tips:

• Practice good hygiene
• Limit exposure to sick people
• Keep the environment clean, and
• Do not skin vaccinations

7. Are there any natural remedies that are safe for newborns if they have a cold?
Yes, some natural home-based remedies include:

• Saline drops
• Steam therapy
• Adequate hydration, and
• Gentle comfort measures