Question
My baby is 4 months old and often sleeps for 4 to 5 hours during the day, with a reduced appetite during this time. I want to know if this sleep pattern and eating amount are normal? Additionally, the baby has been coughing one or two times recently, and should I be worried? Today, I also noticed that there is some mucus in both nostrils and the throat is a bit hoarse. Are these symptoms of a cold?
Answer
Hello, based on your description, your baby’s condition may be symptoms of a cold. During the baby’s cold, parents should follow the doctor’s instructions for home care. First, ensure the baby gets plenty of rest, especially since younger babies need more rest when they have a cold, until the symptoms disappear before resuming normal activities. Second, administer medication as prescribed by the doctor. For most colds, which are primarily caused by viruses, antibiotics are ineffective and excessive use can disrupt the balance of gut flora, promoting bacterial growth and exacerbating the condition. Taking ‘Pain reliever’ can effectively alleviate symptoms such as fever, nasal congestion, and cough caused by a cold, prevent complications, and help the baby recover sooner. During the feverish period, provide fluid or light foods based on the baby’s appetite and digestion ability, such as congee or noodles. For babies who mainly consume milk, you can temporarily reduce the feeding frequency to avoid indigestion. Finally, keep the baby’s living environment quiet, well-ventilated, avoid second-hand smoke, and maintain a comfortable room temperature to avoid being too high or too low.