Every parent knows that their babies will run into a little bit of trouble every now and then. Whether it’s a cold, the flu, or some other type of bug, your baby might get sick. If they do get sick, one thing is for sure – you’ll need to take some time away from work to take care of them. You’re not going to want to rearrange your schedule for your little one, but it might be worth it in the long run!
Why Baby Cough?
When a baby starts to cough, it’s not just a sign of the cold or flu. In fact, most baby coughs are merely the result of congestion. Congestion can be caused by a number of things, including:
-Sneeze and hack in combination
-A high temperature
-Excessive mucus
-A foreign body in the airways
-Coughing too much or too often
What are the Causes of Baby Cough?
Most babies get a cold or the flu at some point in their lives. However, not all babies develop full-blown colds or the flu. Some babies get what is called “infantile bronchiolitis” (IB). IB is a very mild form of asthma that most babies get between the ages of 6 and 12 months. IB can cause coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
The main cause of IB is unknown, but it may be related to airway inflammation caused by infection or allergies. The combination of irritants in the baby’s environment (such as dust mites) and the baby’s own immune system can cause inflammation in the airways. Inflammation causes blockages in the airways, which makes it difficult for the baby to breathe.
There are many things you can do to help your baby cope with IB:
- Keep your baby’s room clean and free of allergens (dust mites, pet dander, etc.).
- Give your baby plenty of fluids (water, breast milk, formula). Try to avoid giving your baby fruit juice or caffeine because these substances can irritate the airways.
- Keep your baby out of smoke-filled rooms!- Inquire about any respiratory symptoms such as congestion and coughing (ask the doctor if needed).
- Avoid excessive handling in the first year of life.
- If your baby has an infection, be sure to get it taken care of right away to minimize the risk of a cold. In children who have asthma or allergies, nasal spray may provide temporary relief from symptoms.
How do I Treat My Baby’s Cough?
There are many different home remedies for treating a baby’s cough and chest congestion. Here are some of the most popular:
-Treating a baby’s cough with cool mist humidifiers: Place a cool mist humidifier in the baby’s room to help relieve their cough. Humidifiers can also help loosen mucus and make breathing more comfortable.
- Gargling with water and salt: Add one teaspoon of salt to eight ounces of warm water, then gargle it down the baby’s throat. This remedy can help clear up the airways and relieve coughing.
- Steam: Steaming can be helpful in relieving congestion and soothing a sore throat. Make sure to use warm, not hot, water when steaming your baby.
- Taking ibuprofen: Some parents find that taking ibuprofen helps relieve symptoms such as coughing and chest congestion in their babies. Talk to your doctor before giving your baby ibuprofen, as it may not be the best option for them.
Do Chest Congestion Affects Baby’s Breathing?
Chest congestion affects one-third of all newborns, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, poor feeding, and lethargy. However, many of these symptoms may also be the result of other causes, so it’s important to get a thorough checkup to rule out any other issues. If your baby has chest congestion, here are some home remedies you can try:
Drink warm liquids: Drinking warm liquids can help loosen congestion and improve breathing. Try breastfeeding or formula diluted with warm water, or offer water infused with lemon or honey as a pacifier or bedtime drink.
Get moving: Exercise can help clear the airway and improve lung function. Encourage your baby to take a few brisk walks each day or play on a bouncy seat for 30 minutes at least several times per week.
Stay cool: Extreme temperatures can aggravate chest congestion in babies, so keep them comfortable by staying cool and hydrated. Keep a fan blowing and carry a portable ice pack with you when you go out.
How To Stop Chest Congestion in Babies
There are many remedies for treating baby cough and chest congestion. Follow these home remedies to help your little one feel better fast!
- Soothe a congested baby’s chest with warm milk or rice milk. Add a few drops of lavender oil or honey for added relief.
- Give a baby a pacifier to suck on if they are having trouble breathing.
- Try giving a baby cold water to drink if they have a cold or fever. This will help clear their throats and reduce the congestion.
- Place a cool washcloth on your baby’s forehead if they are having trouble breathing. This will help relieve the congestion and help them fall asleep faster.
- Give your child an over-the-counter medication like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) to ease their symptoms if they are not getting better with other home remedies.
What are the Remedies for Chest Congestion in Babies?
There are many remedies for chest congestion in babies. Some parents find that using a steam inhaler or applying a warm cloth to the chest and neck is helpful. Others use over-the-counter cough and cold medicines, such as decongestants, antihistamines, and corticosteroids. Some parents try natural remedies, such as elderberry syrup or ginger tea. It is important to speak with your doctor about what is most effective for your baby.
While there is not one definitive answer as to how to relieve a baby’s cough and chest congestion, there are some home remedies that have been found to be helpful. Some of the most common remedies include giving a baby warm liquids (a bath, cup of hot tea, or milk) and dry puffs of vaporized menthol or essential oil (such as rose oil).
Sonal Mitra 
Yojna Aggarwal