How to Treat an 11 Month Old's Cold

The common cold typically causes symptoms such as runny nose and nasal congestion 12. Babies are very susceptible to contracting the common cold, particularly from older children who don’t always wash their hands 12. A baby’s immune system is also immature, which makes young children more susceptible. Treatment for an 11-month-old’s cold typically involves providing plenty of fluids and keeping your child comfortable.

Offer your baby plenty of fluids. If your baby is breastfeeding, make sure she continues to feed as normal. If your baby is bottle feeding, encourage her to continue on her normal feeding schedule. If your baby stops drinking or eating, contact her doctor.

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Suction your baby’s nose to keep the nasal passages clear. Insert the tip of a rubber-bulb syringe inside the nose about ¼ of an inch. Squeeze the bulb while inserting into the nose. Hold in place once inserted and release the bulb, then remove the syringe from your baby’s nose.

Keep your child’s bedroom air moist to help him sleep better. Place a humidifier in your child’s room and change the water daily. Keep the humidifier away from your child’s crib to avoid mold growth.

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Sit with your baby in a steamy bathroom. Turn the shower on hot and sit in the bathroom for a few minutes. Exit the bathroom and repeat as needed to keep your child’s air passageways clear.

Discuss the use of fever-reducing medications with your child's pediatrician, recommends MayoClinic.com. Use as directed by your pediatrician. Common medications include ibuprofen and acetaminophen.

Tips

Prevent future colds by encouraging your child to wash her hands frequently. Wash her hands after eating and playing. Also, discourage her from sharing utensils, which encourages the spread of germs.

Warnings

Never give your child aspirin, which can trigger a potentially fatal condition called Reye’s Syndrome. Your baby won’t like her nose suctioned, so you might need someone to hold your baby while you suction the nose to make the process easier.