Getting Through The Common Cold

Since Mason has come down with what looks like the common cold I thought it'd be the perfect time to share some tips I used when Mason was younger (some I still use) to help you get through cold/flu season. 

Tip 1: Use A Nasal Aspirator. Aspirators clear out the gunk and relieve stuffed noses. 

Tip 2: Use Saline Drops. When the mucus is thick, saline can help. Place a few drops of pure saline solution (never medicated) in each nostril and them immediately apply suction. Especially do it before meals because it's harder for babies to nurse when their sinuses are plugged.

Tip 3: Run A Vaporizer. Steam liquefies mucus, loosening up congestion and making breathing easier. Use a cool-mist vaporizer around little ones for safety reasons. 

Tip 4: Elevate The Baby's Mattress. Propping up the baby's head encourages mucus to drain naturally which can reduce congestion and coughing.

Tip 5: Offer Plenty of Fluids. Fluids keep the body functioning. 

Tip 6: Take a Walk Outside. If it's not too cold take a brisk walk around the block. The air can temporarily clear your childs head and the scenary will keep them distracted from remembering that they're sick :)

Tip 7: Watch For Ear Infection. Ear infections can result from clogged sinuses so lookout for the symptoms. Such as, pulling or tugging on the ears, crying, irratibility, and the baby not sleeping as much.

Tip 8: Track Temperature. If your child has any kind of fever, track it!

Tip 9: Relieve A Cough with Honey. It's not safe to give honey to children under 12 months so please don't do it! You can soothe a older child's cough though with it.

Hope these help you this winter. Oh and wash your hands a lot, that always helps too :)