One of the worst feelings a parent will have is feeling helpless when caring for a sick newborn. The exhaustion, crankiness and their inability to communicate what’s wrong is the trifecta for a ‘not so fun day’. It usually starts with your newborn acting out of the ordinary; longer naps, crying a lot and then congestion sometimes kicks in. Figuring out exactly what’s wrong is honestly just a guessing game.
Although the crying may not stop and you feel like nothing is working, hang in there. They’re counting on you and need you more than ever. Here are some things you can do as soon as you see your newborn is congested.
These are tips I’m sharing with you through my own personal experience. Let’s be clear, I am not a Pediatrician. However, I have gone thru this several times and am willing to share some tips with you on caring for a sick newborn. Always call your Pediatrician with concerns regarding your child’s health.
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Use a Humidifier
Using a humidifier is crucial for increasing moisture in the air. This is important for your little one’s nasal passage to help keep their mucus flowing and minimize congestion. We use the Crane Drop Humidifier in both kids’ room. It’s super quiet, easy to clean and lasts up to 24 hours. A humidifier will relieve many symptoms such as cough, congestion, nose bleeds and even dry skin. It simply makes breathing easier and will lead to a better night’s sleep for both baby and you. Side note; be sure to clean out the humidifier as directed by the manufacturer and do not put oils or vapors into the machine. Oils and vapors are not meant for newborns and can irritate their nasal passage. We also use the Crane humidifier in our bedroom too. Their sleek stylish designs are great for any room in your house.
Use a Saline Spray
This is a salt water mix that helps them breathe better by breaking up the baby’s mucus. It is safe to use on newborns and you can’t over use it. Lay your little one down (I usually do this on the changing table) and spray into their nostrils. Let the spray settle in for a few minutes in order for the mucus to loosen up. This spray works wonders. It is a gentle mist that coats their nasal passage and has a newborn safe nozzle. It contains no preservatives or CFCs. I always have these on hand. One for each of my kids (don’t share the bottle).
Use a Nasal Aspirator
Once the mucus is loosened you need to get it out with an aspirator. You can either use a battery operated one like this one that plays music and has a light or a simple clear bulb like this one. Newborns don’t have the ability to blow their nose so an aspirator is crucial in clearing out their nasal passage.
Steam Out the Bathroom
The mixture of the warm moist air is extremely soothing for your newborn. Their lungs are small and they may be having trouble breathing due to their congestion. The steam will definitely help ease the stress on their lungs.
Incline in the Bassinet
When babies are congested, laying down can make them feel worse. Keeping their head above the rest of their body will allow their mucus to flow better and reduce their congestion. Elevate the bassinet mattress with a newborn safe wedge.
Cuddle Them
This is probably the only positive that will come out of having a sick newborn. Extra snuggles always makes me happy (and baby too!). Try to find time in the day to do skin to skin and just hold them. You will not be spoiling them, and you will not be creating a bad habit. They just need the extra cuddles right now.
Good luck and be sure to call your Pediatrician with concerns regarding your child’s health.
Having a sick newborn is the worst! My first born had a cold 5 days into his life! (Winter baby!) I wish i knew some of these tips back then!