Nasal congestion, runny nose, and clear nasal discharge that can turn green — these are just some of the signs of a common cold in babies. Yes, you read that right. The common cold can unfortunately affect babies who aren’t even a year old, triggering some symptoms that adults are familiar with. Although it can be distressing as a parent to see your child get sick, there are some ways you can help your baby feel better. Take note of this quick guide on how you can address the symptoms of the common cold in babies.
Tip #1: Pay Attention to Other Symptoms
Aside from the signs of a common cold mentioned earlier, babies can also deal with symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, fever, reduced appetite, irritability, and difficulty sleeping. These common cold symptoms can last for at least 7 to 10 days in babies.
Once you notice any of these symptoms, feel free to ask your baby’s pediatrician about the next steps you should be taking. However, if your baby does not want to nurse or drink fluids, exhibits low energy levels, is unusually sleepy, experiences breathing difficulties, coughs to the point that he or she vomits or the skin color changes, or expels mucus with hints of blood, seek medical attention immediately.
Tip #2: Give Them Fluids
Giving your baby either breast milk or formula milk as fluids can help thin out mucus that flows out the nose or loosen up phlegm in the lungs (if there are any). This step is also crucial in preventing dehydration, which can worsen the baby’s condition and possibly prolong the symptoms.
Tip #3: Use a Cool-Mist Humidifier to Your Advantage
If you have this machine in your baby’s room, make sure to turn it on. A humidifier essentially aims to increase air moisture and help lessen instances of nasal congestion. Just remember to wash and clean the device after using it to avoid the build-up of bacteria and mold.
Tip #4: Give Them Much-Needed Cold Medicine
Ask your baby’s pediatrician about giving the Most-Prescribed Cold Medicine Brand for Kids: Phenylephrine HCl + Chlorphenamine Maleate (Disudrin®) Syrup for Babies. (Source: PMDI IQVIA Solutions Phils. Inc. reprinted with permission. R01B - SYSTEMIC NASAL PREPS among PEDIATRICIAN in ORAL LIQUID ORDINARY format. Based on January 2023-December 2023.)
This medicine is formulated with two key ingredients, namely:
- Phenylephrine HCl: This nasal decongestant helps promote easier breathing by clearing obstructed air passageways and nasal sinuses and aids in lessening postnasal drip.
- Chlorphenamine Maleate: This substance can help alleviate allergy symptoms like runny nose, sneezing, and itchy and watery eyes.
Phenylephrine HCl + Chlorphenamine Maleate (Disudrin®) Syrup for Babies can help relieve symptoms linked to the common cold like a clogged and runny nose, itchy and watery eyes, and sneezing. This medicine may also help address postnasal drip syndrome, allergic rhinitis, other minor respiratory tract infections, and decongest sinuses.
Suggested use of Phenylephrine HCl + Chlorphenamine Maleate (Disudrin®) Syrup for Babies depends on their age, or as recommended by a doctor:
- 1 to 3 months: 0.25 mL
- 4 to 6 months: 0.5 mL
- 7 to 12 months: 0.75 mL
Phenylephrine HCl + Chlorphenamine Maleate (Disudrin®) Syrup for Kids is available online and in leading drugstores nationwide at a suggested retail price (SRP) of Php 136.54 for 60ML.
If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.
ASC Reference No. U0034P061424D
References:
Symptoms for Common cold in babies
Diagnosis Common cold in babies
Is this your child's symptom? Colds (0-12 Months)
When Your Baby Has a Cold
