Miya Pearson
When your newborn has a cold, it can be a challenging time for both of you. It is widely acknowledged that newborns need more sleep when they are unwell, but congestion and discomfort can make it difficult for them to fall and stay asleep. This can result in disrupted sleep, more nighttime wakings, and clinginess. However, it is important to remember that your newborn needs rest to recover, and you should try to help them get the sleep they need.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Sleep | Newborns may sleep more or less when they have a cold. |
| Sleep disruption | A cold may disrupt a newborn's sleep. |
| Comfort | Keeping newborns comfortable can help them sleep better when they have a cold. |
| Cuddles | Extra cuddles can help newborns sleep better when they have a cold. |
| Congestion | Nasal congestion can make it difficult for newborns to breathe and sleep when they have a cold. |
| Feeding | It is important to ensure that newborns are feeding well and staying hydrated when they have a cold. |
| Medical attention | If a newborn is showing signs of dehydration or other serious symptoms, seek medical attention. |
| Treatment | Consult a pediatrician for potential treatments to help newborns with a cold sleep better. |
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What You'll Learn
Clearing your newborn's nose
Having a cold can disrupt a newborn's sleep. Sick babies may sleep more or less, but they need rest to recover. It is important to keep them comfortable and well-hydrated, and to provide extra cuddles to help them sleep better.
A newborn with a stuffy nose can have trouble feeding and sleeping. Here are some ways to clear your newborn's nose:
- Nasal saline drops can be used to clear congestion. 3 to 4 drops can be administered to each nostril with a nose dropper. This helps to loosen and clear mucus, especially if the newborn sneezes.
- A bulb syringe or nasal aspirator can be used to suction the mucus after the saline drops have been administered. The bulb syringe should be cleaned with warm soapy water between uses to prevent bacterial build-up.
- A cool-mist humidifier in the newborn's room can help to add moisture to the air and relieve irritated, dry nasal passages.
- Placing a folded towel under one end of the mattress can elevate the newborn's head while sleeping, allowing mucus to drain from the nose.
- BoogyWipes or lotion tissues can be used to wipe the outside of the nose if it is irritated.
It is important to note that cough and cold medicines are not safe for infants. If your newborn is having trouble breathing, has a fever, or is showing other signs of illness, contact your doctor.
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Nasal saline drops
Nasal congestion can be a problem for newborns, who breathe only through their noses. It can make it difficult for them to breathe, sleep, and feed. Nasal saline drops are a safe and effective way to alleviate congestion. They are composed mostly of saline solution, which causes the blood vessels in the nose to constrict, dilutes mucus, and reduces swelling in the sinus area.
Saline drops are ideal for newborns because they do not contain medicine, and it is easy to control the dosage. They are also inexpensive and readily available online or at most drugstores and pharmacies. To administer the drops, first, wash your hands with soap and water. Then, get the appropriate dosage in the nasal dropper, which should be found in the manufacturer's instructions. Cradle your baby with your left arm if you are right-handed and use a couch arm to support your baby and your arm. If your baby's nose is completely blocked by congestion, use a nasal aspiration device or bulb syringe to remove the mucus. Place the dropper just past the opening of the baby's nose, but try not to touch the side of the dropper to the nose. Gently squeeze the bulb on the dropper to administer the required dosage. If necessary, ask another adult to get more medicine in the dropper for the other nostril. Hold your baby in the same position for five minutes to allow the drops to flow into the nasal passage. If your baby begins to cough, allow them to sit up or help them to sit.
Side effects of nasal drops may include a runny nose, sneezing, a burning sensation, stinging, or nasal dryness. If your child complains of any of these side effects, monitor the symptoms and contact your doctor if they last or worsen over time. Also, contact the doctor if your child experiences headache, dizziness, trouble breathing, irregular heartbeat, nausea, mood changes, weakness, persistent sweating, trouble sleeping, a rash, or signs of itching or swelling.
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Humidifiers
A newborn's sleep is often disrupted when they have a cold. In general, babies may sleep more or less when they are unwell. It is important to keep an eye on your baby's overall mood and energy levels when determining if they are getting enough sleep. If your baby is sleeping all day, it is recommended to wake them up every few hours to ensure they are staying hydrated and getting the nutrients they need.
One way to help your baby sleep when they are congested is to use a humidifier in their room. Humidifiers are devices that turn water into vapour and release it into the room, adding moisture to the air. This moisture can help to clear a stuffy nose, easing congestion and helping your baby to breathe and sleep better. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends a cool-mist humidifier to help treat a baby's cold symptoms. Warm-mist humidifiers are not recommended for babies as they can be a burn hazard if knocked over.
When choosing a humidifier, look for one that is easy to clean, as this will need to be done weekly to prevent mould. Some humidifiers have cute designs or a night light, making them an adorable addition to your baby's bedroom. Other features to look out for include a timer, which allows you to set the humidifier to turn on or off at specific times, and a top-fill tank, which makes refilling easy.
It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before adding a humidifier to your baby's sleeping environment, as there may be better alternatives depending on your baby's health history and symptoms.
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Pain and fever-reducing medication
Having a cold can disrupt a newborn's sleep. In general, babies may sleep more when they are sick to help their body recover. However, if your newborn is sleeping all day, it is recommended to wake them up every few hours to ensure they are getting enough fluids and nutrients.
When it comes to medication, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before giving any drugs to a baby. Over-the-counter medications are not recommended for treating coughs and colds in children younger than 6 years old. However, fever reducers and pain relievers are exceptions and can be used for children above 3 months old. For example, acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can be used for children above 3 months and 6 months, respectively. It is important to carefully follow the dosing guidelines provided by a healthcare professional.
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Cuddles and comfort
When your newborn has a cold, they may sleep more than usual. It is important to remember that your baby needs rest to recover. However, it can be challenging for them to get a good night's sleep when they are congested and unwell. Here are some tips to help your newborn find comfort and get the sleep they need:
- Offer extra cuddles and comfort: It is perfectly fine to respond to your newborn's cries and provide comfort when they wake up during the night. Pick them up, cuddle them, and help them settle back to sleep. Don't worry about them unlearning healthy sleep habits; focus on providing comfort and support when they are sick.
- Familiar routines: Maintaining familiar bedtime routines can help cue your newborn's brain that sleep is coming, even when they are unwell. These routines can provide a sense of familiarity and comfort, making it easier for them to fall asleep.
- Keep them comfortable: Ensure your newborn is in a comfortable sleeping environment. This may include using a humidifier in their room to help loosen congestion or sitting with them in a steamy bathroom to help clear their nasal passages.
- Nasal congestion relief: Congestion can make it difficult for newborns to breathe and sleep peacefully. Use nasal saline drops or a nasal aspirator to help clear their nasal congestion before bedtime. Consult your pediatrician for advice on safe and effective products.
- Hydration: It is important to keep your newborn hydrated, especially when they are congested. Offer them breast milk or formula frequently to ensure they are getting the fluids they need. You can also provide additional liquids, such as pedialyte or even popsicles, to help with hydration.
- Consult your pediatrician: If your newborn's cold persists or they have difficulty breathing, a fever, or other concerning symptoms, don't hesitate to contact your pediatrician. They can provide specific advice and treatment options to help your newborn feel better and sleep more comfortably.
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Frequently asked questions
Newborns may sleep more when they have a cold, but it is important to ensure they are getting enough fluids and nutrients. It is recommended to wake them up every few hours to feed them.
It is recommended to keep their nose clear using a nasal aspirator or saline drops. A humidifier can also help with congestion. Ensure your newborn is kept comfortable and well-hydrated.
It is very common for newborns to get sick, with most babies getting 6-8 colds in their first year.
It is normal for newborns to sleep more when they are unwell, as their bodies need rest to recover. However, if their nap doubles their typical nap time, it may be beneficial to wake them up to ensure they are staying hydrated and well-nourished.
You can give your newborn pain and fever-reducing medication as prescribed by a doctor. It is also important to frequently wash your hands and the hands of those around the newborn to prevent the spread of illness.
