Infections in the upper respiratory tract

Many babies get their first cold during the first months of life. Breast milk confers some immunity, but by no means guarantees complete protection, especially if another family member suffers from respiratory disease. These infections are easily spread by droplets in the air or by contact with hands. (Exposure to cold or drafts do not cause colds) Wash hands, cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing and kissing the child when cold, are the best ways to avoid infect it.

Most infections respiratory babies who contract are mild, causing coughing, runny nose and a slight increase in temperature, but rarely fever. Mucus, however it can be a real problem for the infant. By not being able senseless, mucus may end up blocking the nasal passages. Before he was three or four months, babies still breathe properly through the mouth, so this blockage can cause them more discomfort than older children.

Also a blocked nose can cause sleep problems, and being unable to breathe on it, the child will wake up crying. It can also interfere with the power and you have to stop sucking for breath through the mouth.

To mitigate this problem by placing a humidifier cool mist in the baby's room. If congestion persists use a nasal aspirator, especially before feedings or when your child has very runny nose and stuffy. If before pour a few drops of saline (prescribed by the pediatrician) in each nostril, get soften the secretions, facilitating aspiration.

Normally no need to carry the child to the doctor when you have an infection in the upper respiratory tract , but it never hurts to inquire if in doubt about how to proceed, however, if the child present, persistent cough, loss of appetite, increased sleepiness of normal and fever should go immediately to your pediatrician.