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How can I tell if DS has a cold?

2 replies

Scout19075 · 14/12/2009 16:56

How can I tell if my son, who is 6 weeks, 5 days, has a cold? He seems a bit stuffy/wheezy, but I thought that a few weeks ago and the GP told me everything is clear. As well, his sneezes have been more frequent and forceful the last two days and my husband thinks he's coughing like there's something in there. As well, his eyes seem a bit glassy and he's definitely irritable we can't put him down without him whinging or full-on wailing. He's been sleeping a lot more, but only on me the minute I put him down he wakes up, even if he's completely out when I do.

I should mention that I don't think he has a fever, though I'm not convinced I took his temperature the right way. He's eating, but more like snacking, not having proper meals (he's on baby-led breastfeeding).

And if it is a cold, what can I do to make him feel a bit of relief? His moses basket is already propped up to provide relief, and as his is swing (where he sleeps during the day).

Thanks!!

OP posts:
KitKatQueensSpeech · 15/12/2009 00:17

Hiya, get yourself an ear thermometer that can be used from newborn. Preferably one where you don't need to put covers over the end because you will just spend the next several years buying new covers

There isn't a massive amount you can do for a baby his age, prop the cot put wet towels on the radiator to humidify the air or take him in the bathroom while the bath is running to allow the steam to aid his breathing.

Some people put vick in a bowl of hot water but tbh I am not sure if its officially reccomended at his age.

You have already propped the cot, the only other thing I would do is if he seems any worse / if his feeding is being interfeered with by a bunged up nose see the gp and ask about nasal drops, they are usually saline and help clear blocked noses.

He will probably want to feed little and often, this is normal and fine, sore throats ned soothing and it will keep him well hydrated.

Trust yourself please You know him better than anyone else, if he seems a trifle unwell to you then he very likely is use your intuition. Womens intuition isn't unbased, its a conclusion culminating from many small pieces of information that you don't even realise that you noticed in the 1st place.

Hope he's feeling better soon.

Scout19075 · 17/12/2009 15:17

Thanks for the advice! He seems to be on the mend -- definitely not as irritable as he has been.

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