It can be worrying when your baby gets their first cold. A blocked nose, cough, or fever may make parents feel anxious, especially with a young infant. The good news is that colds are very common in babies and are usually mild. As your baby’s immune system develops, they will naturally come into contact with viruses that cause colds.
Why Colds Feel Worse for Babies
Babies often struggle more with colds than older children because their nasal passages are very small. Even a little mucus can make breathing difficult. Babies also cannot blow their noses, which means congestion can affect feeding and sleep.
Common Cold Symptoms
Common signs of a cold include a runny or blocked nose, sneezing, mild cough, slight fever, irritability, and difficulty feeding. Some babies may also sleep more or become more clingy than usual. Symptoms usually appear gradually and may last between 7 and 10 days. A cough can sometimes continue for a little longer as the airways recover.
Feeding and Sleep Changes
Babies may want to feed more often but for shorter periods because breathing through the nose is harder. Sleep may also be disturbed due to congestion and discomfort. This can be tiring for both baby and parents, but it is usually temporary.
How Common Are Colds in Babies?
Colds are a normal part of early childhood, and most babies will have several in their first two years of life. This happens because their immune systems are still learning to recognise and fight infections. Some babies may experience as many as ten colds in their first 24 months. Babies who spend time around older children, such as siblings or in childcare settings, may catch colds more often because viruses spread easily through close contact.
Although frequent colds can be frustrating, they are usually mild and improve with time. However, if your baby is younger than three months and becomes unwell, it is important to speak to a healthcare professional for guidance, as very young infants need closer monitoring.
References
https://www.healthline.com/health/childrens-health/colds-in-newborns
