A baby's first cold often occurs in the first few weeks of life. The young body's immune system first has to build up, which means that a baby's first cold can break out at the first contact with cold viruses. The problem with babies is that they cannot sniff. So babies are not helped by a handkerchief.
As babies do not yet breathe through their mouths in the same way as adults, colds are particularly troublesome for babies when they are drinking and sleeping. Babies breathe through their nose, cannot snort out and usually lie flat, which is why they suffer particularly from a baby cold. To get the problem under control quickly, we explain the most effective natural remedies for baby rhinitis in this article.
Table of contents
1. what helps with a baby cold?
Normally a cold is harmless for babies and subsides quickly. However, if a baby's cold develops, it can block the airways and trigger an infection. In infants, the connections between the middle ear, nasopharynx and Eustachian tube are narrow and short. This is why babies can quickly develop a middle ear infection. To prevent such complications, the baby's nose must be cleared quickly. There are these natural methods and home remedies that can achieve quick results:
Angelica balm
Angelica balm is a natural ointment that is applied externally to the nostrils. The angelica root (angelica root) it contains helps to loosen stuck baby colds, while marjoram and thyme have an antibacterial and antiviral effect. Angelica balm from Casida is based on gentle and natural ingredients, making it ideal for use on sensitive noses. The balm contains purely plant-based oils from organic cultivation and is free from chemical additives. Casida angelica balm also contains lanolin, St. John's wort and beeswax to care for little noses.
Saline solution
Rinsing with saline solution is particularly helpful for young babies. The saline solution can liquefy the secretions and help them to drain away. It also moisturizes the dried out mucous membranes. Saline solutions are available from pharmacies in vials with a dosing pipette or in disposable pipettes. You can also easily make your own saline solution. To do this, boil a liter of water and dissolve 9 grams of common salt. However, be careful with the ingredients, as they must be weighed out precisely.
The saline solution is used by administering 2-3 drops into both nostrils while the baby is lying down. Another option is to use a nasal douche with a disposable syringe to administer 2 ml of saline solution into each nostril. It is best to lift the baby's head slightly and carefully.
Breast milk
Breast milk contains antibodies that can also help with baby rhinitis. Several anti-inflammatory substances in the milk fight the pathogens and ensure that the baby's nasal mucous membranes decongest. Simply drip the breast milk into the baby's nose using a pipette or syringe.
Nasal aspirator
If you notice that thick secretions are making it difficult for your baby to breathe through his nose, you should use a small nasal aspirator to remove the mucus yourself. The nasal aspirator for babies draws out the secretions with a slight vacuum. However, this method is controversial among doctors, as incorrect use could lead to damage. In addition, the method does not work if the mucous membrane is swollen.
Other methods
The following are helpful for every cold and similar complaints, even in babies: fresh air, drinking enough, steam inhalations, ensuring sufficient humidity in the room, e.g. with humidifiers or aroma diffusers, putting your head up when you sleep and plenty of rest.
2 When should I take my baby to the doctor?
If the baby is under 3 months old, a visit to the doctor is also advisable for baby rhinitis. Older babies and toddlers, on the other hand, do not need to see a doctor as long as they are drinking enough and do not have a fever. Additional symptoms such as severe breathing problems or fever should definitely be clarified by a doctor.
Important note / disclaimer: As pharmacists, we share our pharmaceutical expertise and wealth of naturopathic experience in the Casida guide. An individual diagnosis and consultation is necessary in every case. Therefore, this offer cannot replace medical advice. It is not intended to treat, cure or prevent any disease. It is not a substitute for medication or other treatments prescribed by a doctor.
