1 Month Old Baby Sick

by Christine
(Sault Ste Maire Ont)

My son is one month old only and had a bit of a runny noise and a cough. He has no fever and eats well. But I heard that newborn babies should not be ill.

Should I take him to the hospital?

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Baby Help Line :

What To Do When Newborn Gets A Cold

I completely agree with you, newborn babies should not be ill. Babies are more susceptible to suffer health complications due to their immature immune system. In fact, some diseases are more harmful in newborns because they can lead to severe health conditions. Diseases such as a cold or a flu that will not normally cause complications in adults will do so in newborns.

However, from the signs that you described it seems that your baby has an uncomplicated cold that will be resolved in few days on its own.

Nevertheless, you will have to keep an eye on your son's evolution and try to keep him hydrated and comfortable.

If a newborn gets sick it is important to recognize some warning signs that need urgent attention because they might be the signs of health problems such as pneumonia. If your baby has nasal flaring, abnormal movements of the thorax, or if your baby is grunting, does not want to feed, is irritable or has more than 60 breaths per minute you should bring your baby immediately to the hospital.

It is also advisable to check his temperature every time you change his diaper because newborns have difficulties regulating their temperature. If your baby is too cold or has high fever you have to call your doctor immediately.

Even if it is just a cold, a newborn baby can get dehydrated quickly, which is dangerous. With the runny nose, feeding may be difficult for your child. If his appetite is affected, try feeding him often and in smaller amounts and use saline drops with a nasal aspirator prior to feeding.

Also feed him in a slightly more upright position, again to make the breathing easier.

Breast milk is really beneficial in your situation; because it contains immunoglobulins your body is making and will help the cold to fight the cold quicker. Using your breast milk instead of saline drops is also an option.

If it doesn't get worse than a little bit of coughing and a runny nose, you probably don't have to do anything. But, if you are worried, call or visit the doctor anyway. And do not give him any type of medication without consulting a doctor.

You can learn how to make your own saline nose drops here and also learn how to give them to your baby here. (Scroll down to read the answer.)

Hope he gets better soon,

Paula

(Answer approved by our Medical Reference Team)

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