A common cold in infants is a viral infection primarily affecting the nose and throat. Babies are particularly susceptible to these infections because their immune systems are still developing and have not yet encountered many common viruses. This makes them more prone to illness, and it is typical for infants to experience several colds, possibly eight or more, within their first year. While colds are generally mild, they can cause concern for parents.
Recognizing Cold Symptoms in Infants
Recognizing a cold in a 6-month-old involves observing specific signs. A runny or stuffy nose is often among the first symptoms. Nasal discharge may start clear, then thicken and change to yellow or green. Babies may also experience sneezing and a mild cough.
A slight fever, typically under 101°F (38.3°C), can accompany a cold in infants. Other signs include a decreased appetite or difficulty feeding, often due to nasal congestion making it hard to breathe while sucking. Increased fussiness and trouble sleeping are common, as discomfort from congestion can disrupt routines.
Treatments to Avoid for Babies
Many over-the-counter (OTC) cold and cough medicines are unsafe for infants under two years of age. These products do not treat the viral cause of a cold and offer no proven benefit. They can lead to serious, potentially life-threatening side effects, including convulsions, rapid heart rates, and accidental overdose.
Avoid specific ingredients for this age group, including decongestants, antihistamines, and cough suppressants. Many products are now explicitly labeled “do not use in children under 4 years of age.” Avoid aspirin for children or teenagers due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome. Reye’s syndrome is a rare but severe condition that can cause brain swelling and liver damage, especially when aspirin is given during or shortly after a viral illness like a cold or flu.
Gentle Home Remedies for Relief
Safe home remedies can alleviate a 6-month-old’s cold symptoms. Saline nasal drops moisten nasal passages and loosen thick mucus. Use these drops two to four times daily, or more frequently as needed; they are generally available without a prescription. After applying, wait a few moments for the saline to work before clearing the nose.
Nasal aspirators or bulb syringes gently suction loosened mucus, making it easier for the baby to breathe, feed, and sleep. To use a bulb syringe, squeeze the air out, place the tip gently at the nostril, and slowly release the bulb to create suction. Limit suctioning to about two times daily to prevent nasal irritation.
A cool-mist humidifier in the baby’s room adds moisture to the air, thinning mucus and easing congestion and coughing. Cool-mist humidifiers are safer than warm-mist versions due to the risk of burns from hot water or steam. Daily cleaning of the humidifier is important to prevent mold and bacteria growth. Ensure the baby receives adequate fluids, such as breast milk or formula, to maintain hydration.
When to Contact Your Pediatrician
While most infant colds are mild, some symptoms require medical attention. Seek immediate care if your baby shows signs of difficulty breathing, such as rapid breathing, flaring nostrils, or retractions (skin pulling in around ribs or collarbones). Grunting or wheezing sounds during breathing are concerning.
A high or persistent fever warrants a call to the pediatrician. Any fever in an infant under 3 months old needs evaluation. For a 6-month-old, assess a fever over 102°F (38.9°C) or one lasting more than a few days. Signs of dehydration, including fewer than six wet diapers daily, a dry mouth, sunken soft spot, or lack of tears, require prompt medical consultation. If symptoms worsen, do not improve within 7 to 10 days, or if the baby develops a persistent or severe cough, ear tugging, unusual lethargy, or extreme fussiness, contact your pediatrician.