What To Keep On Hand When Babies Get Sick

When baby experiences cold and flu symptoms, it can turn your smiling, laughing bundle of joy into a very sorrowful sick baby; not to mention cause a serious cramp in your household. From thermometers and humidifiers to baby medicines and nasal aspirators, we’ve compiled a list of eight things you need to keep on hand to provide comfort for your sick baby (ages 0 to 2).

Thermometer to Interpret a Sick Baby’s Symptoms

Cough. Sniffle. Sneeze. Cry. Any combination of these sounds can cause you to stop in your tracks and wonder, “how do I know if my baby is sick?” The first step is finding out whether or not your baby has a fever. Thermometers provide an accurate temperature which serves as one of many indicators as to whether a sick baby should be seen by a physician. What is a fever for a baby? A baby fever is not, “baby feels warm.” The American Academy of Pediatrics states, “a rectal temperature over 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit is considered a fever.” There are different types of thermometers, but you don’t need the fanciest or most expensive to get an accurate reading; all digital thermometers should do the trick. A rectal temp is the most accurate way to measure a baby’s temperature. Certain brands offer specific thermometers for this task which help parents get an exact reading quickly and carefully due to fast results and comfort guards to ensure thermometers are properly and safely inserted.
From the American Academy of Pediatrics: Fevers aren’t always a cause for alarm. However, you should “call your child’s doctor right away if your child has a fever and is younger than three months (12 weeks) and has a temperature of 100.4°F (38.0°C) or higher.”

Baby Medicine to Relieve Pain & Reduce Fever

When teething pain or fever strikes, acetaminophen can be a parent’s and sick baby’s best friend. In addition to acetaminophen, many moms and dads will keep Ibuprofen in their medicine cabinet which can also be used as a pain reliever and way to treat baby’s fever. Before you reach for the Ibuprofen, however, note that it should only be given to baby ages six months of age and over, unless directed by a physician. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, “Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are safe and effective medicines if used as directed for improving your child’s comfort,” and they may also bring down the baby’s fever.

 

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