“How do you treat a cold in an infant?”
My infant seems to have a cold and I don't know what to do. How do you treat a cold in an infant?
5 Answers
Supportive care is the only treatment for cold on and infant. This would include Tylenol for low-grade fevers, significant hydration including using Pedialyte. Would also recommend a humidifier temp alleviate sinus congestion
It depends - if there are mild symptoms, you may use normal saline spray or drops, supportive treatment, and Tylenol every 4 hours as needed.
A "cold" is typically an upper respiratory tract infection caused by a virus, so no medicines make it go away faster. How you treat the symptoms varies widely based on the age of the child and the specific symptoms you want to decrease.
Shelley C. Springer, MD, MBA, MSc, JD, FAAP
Shelley C. Springer, MD, MBA, MSc, JD, FAAP
Colds or upper respiratory infections are caused by viruses. Antibiotics are not effective. Most cold and cough preparations are not very effective and are inappropriate for use in children under 5. The best approach to treatment is to make your infant comfortable by clearing their nasal passages by suctioning or the use of the nose Frida, using a humidifier, and making sure that your infant is getting plenty of fluids. If your baby is running a fever, then a fever reducer would also make them more comfortable.
Usually symptom management. Saline nose drops and bulb suction. Keep hydrated. If he develops fever or listlessness, he would need to be checked.
