Newborn Remedies for Colds, RSV, Covid, Flu

Newborns only do a few things in their little lives- mainly eating and sleeping…and being sick makes both those things difficult. The short answer is there is no magic wand to make your baby better. It takes time, and if your baby is getting worse please read RSV symptoms in newborns.

1. Prevention. You can’t always keep your baby healthy, but there are some things that you can do to reduce the risk
2. Cool mist humidifier. Run this in your baby’s sleep space. Be sure to clean It regularly, spraying musty moldy air won’t help any!
3. Steam before sleep. You can bring your baby into the bathroom and run the shower. The warm humid air will help break up congestion.
4. Saline and nose suckers before feedings. Use these with caution and under doctor recommendation for very newborn babies. We prefer to use the Nose Frida, because you can control the suction. The bulb syringe is easy to go too deep or suction too hard and hurt the baby. Bulb syringes can also harbor mold if they aren’t cleaned properly.
5. Hydration. Try to make sure your baby is getting enough fluids. If you are bottle feeding keep track of their oz, if you are breastfeeding give them more access to the breast than normal. Did you know that baby’s saliva can “talk” to your breasts and tell them to make milk at the perfect ratio to help your baby recover?
6. Garlic and probiotics. No, not for the baby! Parents can take probiotics and antivirals if they are breastfeeding. [Even if they aren’t it can help them stay healthy too!]
7. Healthy sleep. When a baby is sick they may be uncomfortable lying flat. It’s hard to both help your baby feel better, and offer them safe sleep. Parents may want to hold their baby in arms for some naps so that they don’t become overtired. Holding the baby overnight is not sustainable and elevating the crib or bassinet isn’t recommended either. If possible tag team with a partner or a professional. If you are cosleeping make sure you are still following the Safe 7.