How to take care of a baby with a cold

Written by Yao Li Qin
Pediatrics
Updated on April 08, 2025
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When a baby has a cold, it indicates that the baby has an acute upper respiratory infection. Over 90% of colds are caused by viral infections, and 10% are caused by bacterial infections. When a child catches a cold, in addition to administering medication, nursing care is very important. First, the child should be allowed to rest, sleep more, drink plenty of plain water, and avoid vigorous activities. It is important to monitor the child's temperature and promptly manage any symptoms if the child develops a fever. Additionally, ensure that the child's diet is light and easy to digest; it's better to drink more soups and avoid fatty meats or sweets. Also, under the guidance of a doctor, administer symptomatic medications to the child, and always follow the instructions carefully when using medications to avoid taking too much or too little, as either can be inappropriate.

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Written by Zhang Xian Hua
Pediatrics
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Can babies with colds eat eggs?

When infants catch a cold, it is mostly due to a viral infection, which reduces their intestinal digestive function and increases their intestinal sensitivity. Therefore, it is not advisable for them to eat eggs during this time. Firstly, eggs are one of the most common allergens for children, and their sensitivity increases during a cold, possibly triggering allergic symptoms in babies, including gastrointestinal symptoms, exacerbation of skin symptoms, and even respiratory symptoms. Secondly, eggs contain a relatively high amount of fat, which, if consumed during a cold, might cause the baby to experience vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Therefore, there is a certain risk involved, and caution is necessary.

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Written by Zhang Xian Hua
Pediatrics
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Can babies take medicine when they have a cold?

Babies can certainly take medicine when they have a cold. However, if the symptoms are mild and the general condition is good, and the baby can eat and sleep well, it might not be necessary to medicate. It's important to pay close attention and there might be a possibility of natural recovery without medication. If the symptoms of the cold are severe, it is necessary to take medicine, because if it is not controlled in time, it may lead to new infections. For example, a secondary bacterial infection could develop, and there is also a possibility that a cold in the upper respiratory tract could progress to the lower respiratory tract and cause pneumonia, which poses a significant risk. When choosing medications, we generally need to opt for those safe for infants, and avoid any medications contraindicated for infants. (The use of medications should be under the guidance of a professional doctor.)

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Written by Feng Hai Tao
Pediatrics
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How to take care of a child with a cold

How to take care of a child during a cold? First, it is essential to ensure that the child rests in bed. Provide the child with plentiful water, offering small amounts frequently. If the child does not want to drink water, you can appropriately add some juice or glucose water. Also, monitor the temperature changes, generally measuring the temperature under the armpit. Second, it is crucial to keep windows open for ventilation at home, avoiding too cold or too hot environments, as neither is conducive to the child’s recovery from illness. Third, based on the changes in temperature, adjust the child’s clothing accordingly but avoid dressing the child too warmly or covering too thickly, as this can hinder heat dissipation. This is not only detrimental to the child’s recovery but can also exacerbate the illness and potentially lead to heat rash. Fourth, if the child sweats excessively, be sure to wipe the sweat timely and change their clothes. Fifth, in terms of diet, adopt a strategy of small, frequent meals that are light and easy to digest. The child should avoid eating fish, shrimp, spicy, and other stimulating foods. If the child has poor appetite or indigestion, do not force-feed them. Instead, frequently massage their abdomen, and if necessary, administer oral medication to aid digestion. Sixth, ensure adequate caloric intake and that the child urinates frequently and has regular bowel movements. Seventh, actively apply symptomatic treatment for the child and avoid the misuse of antibiotics. If the temperature persists for more than three days or if the condition worsens, it is imperative to visit the hospital promptly to avoid delaying the child's condition.

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Written by Zhang Xian Hua
Pediatrics
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What department should I go to for a baby's cold?

Infant colds are diseases caused by respiratory or gastrointestinal viral infections, and onset is usually sudden. The registration for a doctor's visit may vary depending on the timing. If it's during normal working hours, then a visit to the pediatric outpatient clinic is usually sufficient. However, if it's during off hours, such as at noon, evening, weekends, or public holidays, then a visit to the pediatric emergency department is generally required. Additionally, depending on the symptoms accompanying the cold, a sub-specialty within pediatrics can be chosen. For instance, if the infant cold includes significant respiratory symptoms, then a visit to the pediatric respiratory medicine outpatient clinic is appropriate. If the cold comes with gastrointestinal symptoms, then the pediatric gastroenterology outpatient clinic is suitable.

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Written by Liu Li
Pediatrics
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Can babies catch a cold from sweating?

Under normal circumstances, sweating does not cause a cold in babies because they have particularly strong resistance inherited from their mother. However, the possibility of a cold cannot be completely ruled out. If the weather is especially hot, make sure not to dress the baby too warmly. Also, ensure the baby drinks plenty of water. Parents can prepare some pure cotton towels so that they can wipe the baby anytime if there is excessive sweating. Clothes should also be changed in a timely manner to effectively prevent colds caused by the baby catching a chill.