{"id":257369,"date":"2025-11-05T07:17:31","date_gmt":"2025-11-05T07:17:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/?p=257369"},"modified":"2026-03-09T06:23:05","modified_gmt":"2026-03-09T06:23:05","slug":"child-care-home-remedies-for-cold-in-infants-and-babies","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/child-care-home-remedies-for-cold-in-infants-and-babies\/","title":{"rendered":"Home Remedies for Cold in Infants and Babies"},"content":{"rendered":"<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC \"-\/\/W3C\/\/DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional\/\/EN\" \"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/TR\/REC-html40\/loose.dtd\">\n<html><head><meta http-equiv=\"Content-Type\" content=\"text\/html; charset=utf-8\">\n<\/head><body><div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_79_2 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-69d051a05b411\" class=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-label\"><span class=\"ez-toc-cssicon\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\"  id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-69d051a05b411\"  aria-label=\"Toggle\" \/><nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/child-care-home-remedies-for-cold-in-infants-and-babies\/#Introduction\" >Introduction<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/child-care-home-remedies-for-cold-in-infants-and-babies\/#Common_Symptoms_of_Cold_in_Infants_and_Babies\" >Common Symptoms of Cold in Infants and Babies<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/child-care-home-remedies-for-cold-in-infants-and-babies\/#Causes_of_Cold_in_Infants_and_Babies\" >Causes of Cold in Infants and Babies<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/child-care-home-remedies-for-cold-in-infants-and-babies\/#Safe_and_Effective_Home_Remedies_for_Cold_Relief\" >Safe and Effective Home Remedies for Cold Relief<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/child-care-home-remedies-for-cold-in-infants-and-babies\/#How_to_Care_for_a_Baby_With_a_Cold_at_Home\" >How to Care for a Baby With a Cold at Home<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/child-care-home-remedies-for-cold-in-infants-and-babies\/#Tips_to_Prevent_Colds_in_Infants_and_Babies\" >Tips to Prevent Colds in Infants and Babies<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/child-care-home-remedies-for-cold-in-infants-and-babies\/#Possible_Complications\" >Possible Complications<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/child-care-home-remedies-for-cold-in-infants-and-babies\/#When_to_See_a_Doctor\" >When to See a Doctor?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/child-care-home-remedies-for-cold-in-infants-and-babies\/#Conclusion\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/child-care-home-remedies-for-cold-in-infants-and-babies\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions_FAQs\" >Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/child-care-home-remedies-for-cold-in-infants-and-babies\/#References\" >References<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n    <a rel=\"nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/channel-health-talk\"\n       class=\"pe-healthtalk-banner\"\n       style=\"position:relative; display:block; margin:10px; border-radius:10px; border-bottom:2px solid #117B77; overflow:hidden;\">\n        <span aria-hidden=\"true\" style=\"position:absolute; left:0; bottom:0; width:2px; height:50%; background:#10847e;\"><\/span>\n        <img alt=\"Join Health Talk by PharmEasy on WhatsApp\"\n             src=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/PEhealthtalk-1.png\"\n             style=\"width:100%; display:block; border-radius:10px;\">\n    <\/a>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Introduction\"><\/span><strong>Introduction<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Colds are one of the most common illnesses in young children, especially infants and babies. They may occur due to conditions like infections (viral or bacterial) affecting the nose, throat, or sinuses. Individuals with allergies may also have cold-like symptoms, for example, stuffy or runny nose, sneezing, and watery-itchy eyes<a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC2722603\/\"><sup>1<\/sup><\/a><sup>,<\/sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.weld.gov\/files\/sharedassets\/public\/departments\/human-services\/documents\/senior-solutions-winter-newsletter-2020.pdf\"><sup>3<\/sup><\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Because there are over a hundred different cold viruses, young children (whose immunity is still developing) often catch several colds each year. This tends to happen more often during the fall and winter seasons<a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC2722603\/\"><sup>1<\/sup><\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The good news is that, although colds can be frustrating for both parents and babies, they are usually mild, self-limiting, and clear up on their own within one to two weeks<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK279543\/\"><sup>2<\/sup><\/a>. This period can be uncomfortable for infants, but simple home remedies may help ease symptoms and support natural recovery.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With this guide, we aim to help parents by providing safe and effective home remedies for colds in babies and infants.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Common_Symptoms_of_Cold_in_Infants_and_Babies\"><\/span><strong>Common Symptoms of Cold in Infants and Babies<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Many parents wonder, \u201chow long do infant colds last?\u201d Colds in infants and babies usually develop gradually and can last from one to two weeks. However, some symptoms, such as a cough, may last a little longer. The most common symptoms of a cold include<a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC2722603\/\"><sup>1<\/sup><\/a>:\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Runny or stuffy nose (with whitish nasal discharge)\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nasal congestion and sneezing\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Coughing\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mild sore throat\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Breathing sounds suggesting chest congestion\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Some babies may also exhibit a reduced appetite, more tiredness than usual, or develop a mild headache. A low-grade fever (below 38.5\u00b0C) may also occur<a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC2722603\/\"><sup>1<\/sup><\/a><sup>,<\/sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK279543\/\"><sup>2<\/sup><\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Usually, all these symptoms are minor and self-limiting. However, because infants and babies have developing immunity, infections that cause mild colds in older children and adults may lead to more serious illnesses in them, for example<a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC2722603\/\"><sup>1<\/sup><\/a>:\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Croup (hoarse voice, barking cough, noisy breathing)\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bronchiolitis (wheezing, rapid or difficult breathing)\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Swollen neck glands, sore throat, or red eyes\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>It is also important to distinguish a cold from the flu. While the two can seem similar, the flu usually begins suddenly and is associated with high fever, chills, body aches, and extreme tiredness. In contrast, colds tend to develop more slowly and are generally milder. Another important point that will help distinguish between the two is that children with colds often still have the energy to play, whereas those with influenza are more likely to be confined to bed<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK279543\/\"><sup>2<\/sup><\/a>.\u00a0<\/p><div id=\"sfa_container_257369\" class=\"sfa_container\" style=\"display:none\"><div class=\"sfa_overlay\"><\/div><button id=\"sfa_btn_257369\" class=\"sfa_btn\">Show Full Article<\/button><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Causes_of_Cold_in_Infants_and_Babies\"><\/span><strong>Causes of Cold in Infants and Babies<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Colds in infants and babies are most often caused by viruses that infect the lining of the nose and throat, leading to inflammation and symptoms.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Certain risk factors, such as the following, increase the risk of colds in babies<a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC2722603\/\"><sup>1<\/sup><\/a>:\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Developing immunity:<\/strong> Infants and toddlers have not yet built resistance to the many different cold viruses.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Seasonal changes:<\/strong> Colds are more common in the fall and winter seasons when children spend more time indoors.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Daycare or preschool attendance: <\/strong>Close contact with many children increases exposure to viruses.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Having older siblings:<\/strong> Germs are often brought home from school or play areas by older children.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Close contact with infected individuals:<\/strong> Viruses spread easily through coughing, sneezing, or shared items, especially when family members or caregivers are unwell.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Surface and hand transmission: <\/strong>Sick individuals can spread viruses by touching toys or surfaces, where the germs may survive for several hours. Children can become infected when they touch these surfaces and then touch their eyes, nose, or mouth.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Safe_and_Effective_Home_Remedies_for_Cold_Relief\"><\/span><strong>Safe and Effective Home Remedies for Cold Relief<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Many parents ask, \u201chow to treat infant cold?\u201d Coughing is a normal part of a cold and helps the body clear mucus from the airways.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While colds usually resolve on their own, certain home remedies for cold in babies can ease symptoms and make babies and children more comfortable. Some non-drug remedies recommended for cold relief include<a href=\"https:\/\/www.fda.gov\/consumers\/consumer-updates\/should-you-give-kids-medicine-coughs-and-colds\"><sup>4<\/sup><\/a><sup>,<\/sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/common-cold\/treatment\/index.html\"><sup>5<\/sup><\/a>:\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>1. Cool mist humidifier\/vaporiser<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-medium\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"375\" height=\"229\" src=\"https:\/\/blog-images-1.pharmeasy.in\/blog\/production\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/31140101\/humidifier-375x229.webp\" alt=\"humidifier mist\" class=\"wp-image-214308\" srcset=\"https:\/\/blog-images-1.pharmeasy.in\/blog\/production\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/31140101\/humidifier-375x229.webp 375w, https:\/\/blog-images-1.pharmeasy.in\/blog\/production\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/31140101\/humidifier-480x293.webp 480w, https:\/\/blog-images-1.pharmeasy.in\/blog\/production\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/31140101\/humidifier-150x91.webp 150w, https:\/\/blog-images-1.pharmeasy.in\/blog\/production\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/31140101\/humidifier.webp 741w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 375px) 100vw, 375px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Helps reduce congestion and makes breathing easier. Avoid warm mist humidifiers, as they may worsen swelling in the nasal passages.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote doc-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>Although humedifiers are said to help with cold symptoms by reducing dryness and congestion, their proper maintainence is very important. If not cleaned properly, bacteria and fungi can proliferate in the device which could be detrimental to respiratory health rather than beneficial. Some latest respiratory disease guidelines such as GINA advise agianst their use for children less than 4 years of age.<\/p>\n<cite><a href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/legal\/editorial-policy\/dr-sarthak-soni-124\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Dr. Sarthak Soni, MBBS, MD (Pediatrics)<\/strong><\/a><\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>2. Saline nose drops or sprays<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-medium\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"375\" height=\"250\" src=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/nasal-spray-375x250.webp\" alt=\"nasal spray\" class=\"wp-image-254408\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/nasal-spray-375x250.webp 375w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/nasal-spray-1024x683.webp 1024w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/nasal-spray-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/nasal-spray-1536x1025.webp 1536w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/nasal-spray-2048x1366.webp 2048w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/nasal-spray-741x494.webp 741w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/nasal-spray-480x320.webp 480w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/nasal-spray-720x480.webp 720w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/nasal-spray-150x100.webp 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 375px) 100vw, 375px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>These keep the nasal passages moist, as well as help clear stuffiness.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote doc-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>I feel a crucial detail all parents should know is that infants almost always breathe through their nose, meaning they cannot easily switch to mouth-breathing when congested; this often causes them to refuse feeds simply because they cannot breathe and swallow simultaneously. Therefore, the ideal to use saline drops and suction is immediately before a feed, as this clears the airway specifically when the baby needs it most to nurse or take a bottle without gasping.<\/p>\n<cite><a href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/legal\/editorial-policy\/dr-sarthak-soni-124\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Dr. Sarthak Soni, MBBS, MD (Pediatrics)<\/strong><\/a><\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>3. Nasal suctioning<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-medium\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"375\" height=\"250\" src=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/nasal-suctioning-375x250.webp\" alt=\"nasal suctioning\" class=\"wp-image-257452\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/nasal-suctioning-375x250.webp 375w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/nasal-suctioning-1024x683.webp 1024w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/nasal-suctioning-768x513.webp 768w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/nasal-suctioning-1536x1025.webp 1536w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/nasal-suctioning-2048x1367.webp 2048w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/nasal-suctioning-741x494.webp 741w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/nasal-suctioning-480x320.webp 480w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/nasal-suctioning-719x480.webp 719w, https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/nasal-suctioning-150x100.webp 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 375px) 100vw, 375px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Using a bulb syringe or similar tool (with or without saline drops) is especially helpful for infants under one year.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Important Safety Considerations<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Avoid over-the-counter cough and cold medicines in children under 4 years of age as these products may cause serious side effects and accidental overdosing.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Always use the provided dosing syringe or cup, not household spoons.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Many cough and cold products marketed as \u201chomoeopathic remedies\u201d are available in pharmacies and online, but none are FDA-approved for children<a href=\"https:\/\/www.fda.gov\/consumers\/consumer-updates\/should-you-give-kids-medicine-coughs-and-colds\"><sup>4<\/sup><\/a>.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Care_for_a_Baby_With_a_Cold_at_Home\"><\/span><strong>How to Care for a Baby With a Cold at Home<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Most colds in babies are mild and go away on their own, but the symptoms can make your little one uncomfortable. You can help your baby feel better with these simple home remedies for cold in babies while their body fights the infection<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/common-cold\/treatment\/index.html\"><sup>5<\/sup><\/a>:\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Keep your baby well-hydrated with frequent breastfeeding, formula, or fluids appropriate for their age.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ensure plenty of rest so their body can fight the infection. You can also give saline nasal drops. For older children (not infants), warm steam inhalation, either from a bowl of hot water or shower steam, may also provide relief.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Honey can soothe a cough but should only be given to children over one year old. It must never be given to babies under 12 months because of the risk of infant botulism, which can be life-threatening.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Tips_to_Prevent_Colds_in_Infants_and_Babies\"><\/span><strong>Tips to Prevent Colds in Infants and Babies<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>While colds are common in young children, parents can take simple steps to reduce the risk of infection and the spread of germs. Some practical prevention tips include<a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC2722603\/\"><sup>1<\/sup><\/a>:\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Limit exposure:<\/strong> Keep babies under 6 months old away from people who have a cold.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Stay up-to-date on vaccines:<\/strong> Routine childhood immunisations help prevent complications such as ear or lung infections. Please note that the <a href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/vaccinations\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>flu vaccine<\/strong><\/a> protects against influenza but not other cold viruses.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Practise good hand hygiene:<\/strong>\u00a0\n<ul>\n<li>Wash your hands after coughing, sneezing, or wiping your nose.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wash your hands and your child\u2019s hands after wiping their nose.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wash your hands after direct contact with someone who has a respiratory infection.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>When soap and water are not available, use alcohol-based hand sanitisers or moist wipes (keep them out of children\u2019s reach, as they can be harmful if swallowed).\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Teach healthy habits:<\/strong> Encourage children to cover their mouth and nose with a tissue when sneezing or coughing. Remember to throw used tissues away immediately and wash yours and your child\u2019s hands afterwards.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Clean shared toys:<\/strong> Avoid sharing toys that babies put in their mouths until they have been properly cleaned.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Daycare precautions: <\/strong>Inform caregivers if your child has cold symptoms and check whether your child should stay home to avoid spreading germs. Parents may want to plan ahead for childcare in case their baby becomes ill.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Possible_Complications\"><\/span><strong>Possible Complications<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Most colds are mild, harmless, and clear up on their own without lasting effects. However, in some cases, complications may occur, including<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK279543\/\"><sup>2<\/sup><\/a>:\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Croup:<\/strong> Inflammation of the larynx (voice box) may lead to hoarseness. Young children can develop croup, which is typically viral and marked by a barking cough, noisy breathing, and mild breathing difficulty.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ear infections:<\/strong> In babies, infants, and toddlers, colds can sometimes spread to the ear, leading to middle ear infections.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tonsillitis:<\/strong> Bacterial throat infections may cause inflammation of the tonsils.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sinus infections:<\/strong> Microbes can spread into the sinuses after a viral cold, leading to sinus infections.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Pneumonia (rare):<\/strong> Upper airway infections may occasionally progress to more serious lower respiratory infections like pneumonia.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Irritation around the nostrils: <\/strong>This may be caused by frequent wiping of the nose.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Also Read: <a href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/child-care-caring-for-a-baby-with-blocked-nose-simple-tips-for-parents\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Caring for a Baby with Blocked Nose: Simple Tips for Parents<\/a>\u00a0<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_to_See_a_Doctor\"><\/span><strong>When to See a Doctor?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Most colds get better on their own, but sometimes medical attention is needed. Seek immediate medical care in the following cases<a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC2722603\/\"><sup>1<\/sup><\/a><sup>,<\/sup><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fda.gov\/consumers\/consumer-updates\/should-you-give-kids-medicine-coughs-and-colds\"><sup>4<\/sup><\/a>:\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>For infants under 6 months:\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Trouble breathing due to a blocked nose\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Difficulty feeding or vomits repeatedly\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fever (rectal temperature of 38.5\u00b0C or higher)\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>For babies and children of all ages, call your doctor or go to the emergency department if your child:<\/strong>\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Is breathing rapidly or struggling to breathe.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Has retractions (pulling in of the skin around the collarbone, neck, or ribs while breathing).\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Has a bluish tinge to the lips\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Has coughing spells so severe that they cause choking or vomiting\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>These symptoms may indicate pneumonia or bronchiolitis and require immediate medical treatment.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Contact the doctor if your child shows signs of an ear infection, such as:\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>High fever (especially if it develops a few days after a cold starts)\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Vomiting\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ear pain or tugging at the ear\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Irritability or unusual crankiness\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pus draining from the ear\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Other signs that indicate your child should visit a doctor include:\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Eyes stuck shut with dried yellow pus (possible eye infection)\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Excessive sleepiness, refusal to feed or play, or inconsolable fussiness\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Thick or discoloured (yellow or green) nasal discharge that lasts longer than 10 to 14 days\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><em><strong>Also Read: <a href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/child-care-green-poop-in-babies-causes-when-to-worry-and-what-parents-should-know\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Green Poop in Babies: Causes, When to Worry, and What Parents Should Know\u00a0<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Colds are very common in babies and usually clear up on their own with time, rest, and supportive home care. While most symptoms are mild, it is important for parents to know how to ease discomfort, prevent the spread of infection, and recognise warning signs that need medical attention.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Remember, with proper care and attention, your baby can recover safely and comfortably.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Also Read: <a href=\"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/child-care-baby-loose-motion-causes-home-remedies-and-effective-ways-to-stop-it-fast\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Baby Loose Motion: Causes, Home Remedies, and Effective Ways to Stop It Fast\u00a0<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions_FAQs\"><\/span><strong>Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1762256780016\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>How many colds are normal for babies and toddlers in a year?<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">It is normal for young children to catch 6 to 10 colds per year, especially during colder months<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK279543\/\"><sup>2<\/sup><\/a>.\u00a0<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1762256792906\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>If I take cough and cold medicines, would they affect my breastfed baby?<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes, some cough and cold medicines can pass into breast milk and may cause adverse reactions in breastfed infants<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/common-cold\/treatment\/index.html\"><sup>5<\/sup><\/a>. Always inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are breastfeeding, so they can recommend safer alternatives.\u00a0<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1762256801285\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>Does zinc help in treating coughs and colds?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Zinc may help inhibit viral growth. However, there is no proven benefit. Therefore, at present, the use of zinc for treating cough and cold in children is not recommended<a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC3223897\/\"><sup>7<\/sup><\/a>.\u00a0<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1762256814711\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>Can paracetamol or ibuprofen be used to treat colds in babies?<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Paracetamol or ibuprofen may be used in babies to relieve fever, aches, and pain, but they do not cure the cold itself. These medicines only make your baby more comfortable while the body fights the infection. Always consult your doctor for the correct\/age-appropriate dose and follow the instructions on the product label carefully<a href=\"https:\/\/www.fda.gov\/consumers\/consumer-updates\/should-you-give-kids-medicine-coughs-and-colds\"><sup>4<\/sup><\/a>.\u00a0<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1762256826141\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>Can children under 4 years use throat lozenges or cough drops?<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">No, throat lozenges or cough drops are unsafe for children under 4 years as they pose a choking hazard<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/common-cold\/treatment\/index.html\"><sup>5<\/sup><\/a>.\u00a0<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1762256836469\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>Can antibiotics treat a cold in children?<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">No, colds are caused by viruses, so antibiotics are not effective. Antibiotics should only be used (under the guidance of a doctor) if a child develops a bacterial infection, such as an ear infection or pneumonia<a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC2722603\/\"><sup>1<\/sup><\/a>.\u00a0<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1762256845366\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>Can vitamin C prevent or treat colds in children?<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Vitamin C does not significantly improve cold symptoms in children, but it may help to slightly reduce the duration of colds<a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugoffice.gov.hk\/eps\/do\/en\/consumer\/news_informations\/dm_36.html\"><sup>6<\/sup><\/a>. There is no clear recommended dose, and potential drug interactions or side effects are not well established. So, it should not be relied upon as a primary treatment, and parents should focus on safe home care and symptom relief instead.\u00a0<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"References\"><\/span><strong>References<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ol>\n<li>Colds in children. Paediatr Child Health. 2005 Oct;10(8):493-5. Availablefrom: <a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC2722603\/\">https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC2722603\/<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG). Overview: Common colds[Internet]. InformedHealth.org; [cited 2025Sep 11]. Available from: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK279543\/\">https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK279543\/<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Weld.gov. What\u2019s the Difference Between a Cold, the Flu, Seasonal Allergies and COVID-19? [Internet]. 2020 [cited 2025 Oct 28]. Available from: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.weld.gov\/files\/sharedassets\/public\/departments\/human-services\/documents\/senior-solutions-winter-newsletter-2020.pdf\">https:\/\/www.weld.gov\/files\/sharedassets\/public\/departments\/human-services\/documents\/senior-solutions-winter-newsletter-2020.pdf<\/a>.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Should You Give Kids Medicine for Coughs and Colds? [Internet]. Food and Drug Administration; 2024 [cited 2025 Sep 18]. Available from: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fda.gov\/consumers\/consumer-updates\/should-you-give-kids-medicine-coughs-and-colds\">https:\/\/www.fda.gov\/consumers\/consumer-updates\/should-you-give-kids-medicine-coughs-and-colds<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Manage Common Cold [Internet]. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; 2024 [cited 2025 Sep 18]. Available from: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/common-cold\/treatment\/index.html\">https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/common-cold\/treatment\/index.html<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Drug Office, Department of Health, The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. Medicines for Cough and Common Cold in Children [Internet]. Department of Health; 2024 [cited 2025 Sep 18]. Available from: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugoffice.gov.hk\/eps\/do\/en\/consumer\/news_informations\/dm_36.html\">https:\/\/www.drugoffice.gov.hk\/eps\/do\/en\/consumer\/news_informations\/dm_36.html<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Goldman RD; Canadian Paediatric Society, Drug Therapy and Hazardous Substances Committee. Treating cough and cold: Guidance for caregivers of children and youth. Paediatr Child Health. 2011 Nov;16(9):564-9. Available from: <a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC3223897\/\">https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC3223897\/<\/a>\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Disclaimer<\/em><\/strong><em>: The information provided here is for educational\/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Links and product recommendations in the information<\/em> <em>provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products\/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.<\/em><br><\/p>\n<\/body><\/html>\n<div class=\"pld-like-dislike-wrap pld-custom\">\r\n    <div class=\"pld-like-wrap  pld-common-wrap\">\r\n    <a href=\"javascript:void(0)\" class=\"pld-like-trigger pld-like-dislike-trigger  \" title=\"Likes\" data-post-id=\"257369\" data-trigger-type=\"like\" data-restriction=\"cookie\" data-already-liked=\"0\">\r\n                            <img src=\"https:\/\/blog-images-1.pharmeasy.in\/blog\/production\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/12132143\/like.png\" alt=\"Likes\" \/>\r\n            <\/a>\r\n    <span class=\"pld-like-count-wrap pld-count-wrap\">    <\/span>\r\n<\/div><div class=\"pld-dislike-wrap  pld-common-wrap\">\r\n    <a href=\"javascript:void(0)\" class=\"pld-dislike-trigger pld-like-dislike-trigger  \" title=\"Dislikes\" data-post-id=\"257369\" data-trigger-type=\"dislike\" data-restriction=\"cookie\" data-already-liked=\"0\">\r\n                            <img src=\"https:\/\/blog-images-1.pharmeasy.in\/blog\/production\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/12132208\/dislike.png\" alt=\"Dislikes\" \/>\r\n            <\/a>\r\n    <span class=\"pld-dislike-count-wrap pld-count-wrap\"><\/span>\r\n<\/div><\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Introduction Colds are one of the most common illnesses in young children, especially infants and babies. They may occur due to conditions like infections (viral or bacterial) affecting the nose, throat, or sinuses. Individuals with allergies may also have cold-like symptoms, for example, stuffy or runny nose, sneezing, and watery-itchy eyes1,3.\u00a0 Because there are over [\u2026]","protected":false},"author":187,"featured_media":257437,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":"","_wp_rev_ctl_limit":""},"categories":[1900],"tags":[13912,13911,13913],"acf":[],"_embedded":{"wp:featuredmedia":[{"source_url":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/cold-in-babies-and-infants.webp"}]},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/257369"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/187"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=257369"}],"version-history":[{"count":13,"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/257369\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":272463,"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/257369\/revisions\/272463"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/257437"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=257369"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=257369"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pharmeasy.in\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=257369"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}