How to treat baby's sniffles

Try to alleviate your baby’s symptoms using these safe and easy techniques

Treating your baby’s sniffles with any of the many children’s cough and cold medications available over the counter may not be wise. For one thing, few studies have shown they work in babies and very young children. Also, it is surprisingly common for babies and infants under the age of two to be treated for overdosed and allergic reactions to such medication. Try to alleviate your baby’s symptoms using these safe and easy techniques.

Keep baby hydrated Nurse or give your baby a bottle on demand. Don’t offer water or any other drink to babies under six months old unless recommended by your paediatrician.

Unclog baby’s nostrils with a bulb syringe If necessary, loosen mucus by using an eyedropper to place a few drops of saline solution or breast milk in each nostril. Squeeze the bulb to create a vacuum, gently insert the rubber tip into one nostril, then slowly release the bulb. Repeat on the opposite side.

Use a humidifier Cool mist may help your baby breathe better, but clean the filter as directed and keep baby’s room dust-free. Stirring up dirt and allergens may make things worse.

Give your baby plenty of fluids It will help to thin secretions and prevent dehydration, especially when diarrhoea is present.