Babies succumb to colds several times in their first years. They are caused by viral infections. Cold makes membranes of the nose and respiratory passages swell and mucus fills the breathing passages that causes coughing, runny nose, wheezing and difficulty in breathing. Babies may also suffer from low fever and decreased appetite. Steam can help your baby to breathe better.
You can use a nasal aspirator with saline nasal spray to suction out the secretions before bedtime. Give extra fluids to the baby and give any medicines only when you have consulted your doctor. Visit the doctor immediately if your child is less than three months old. For older children, you can wait for a week before visiting the doctor unless your child’s lips or nails develop a bluish tinge, have high fever and troubled breathing or baby's nasal discharge becomes thick and yellow. Doctors may give them mild medicines for cold.