Baby's cold

[sjh722]

I don't know how long it's been going on - DD had a cold around 3 months. I called and talked to a nurse and they had me bring her in, since she was so small and it had been going on for several days and was getting worse. I'd probably just call and ask.

[lg28]

How old?
Our GP wanted to see them for anything minor before 8 weeks, after that not really unless they had a fever as well.

[nessness]

At that age, our pedi said only if they had a fever, refusal to eat (like to the point where you were worried about dehydration) or a cough lasting several days.

[linz]

I had called when DD had a cold and the nurse wasn't concerned unless her nose was draining like a faucet - she was more stuffed up. They said do saline every couple hours and suck as much as we could out. Humidifier and keep upright when sleeping - we used RNP.

[jeaniebueller]

Unless he starts refusing to eat or starts wheezing, I would wait it out longer. Sending you sympathy. DD got her first cold within 2 weeks of starting daycare. It's tough when they are tiny.

[lilac05]

When in doubt, I call the pedi. They're usually happy to tell me I have nothing to worry about, give me things that they feel indicate that we need to go in, or have tips to help in the meantime. Our insurance also has a nurse hotline that is really helpful.

After 2 kids and an awful cold/flu season, this wouldn't concern me. But this is your first, and if you are concerned and want to call the pedi, I can guarantee they've fielded MUCH more ridiculous phone calls...likely within the last 24 hours!

[lilac05]

If he's anything like my kids, the snot will clear around noon tomorrow. Hope he's feeling better soon!

Over time, you'll learn how your pedi works. Our last one always erred on the side of caution. I don't think I ever called and didn't end up having to take him in. I started calling my insurance nurse's hotline when I wondered if the office had me coming in to cover themselves and/or make money off of the visit. Of course both places want to help him get healthy, but they each have financial interests at play, too. (Sucks, but true.) Our pedi's office now prefers for them to NOT come in and be exposed to more stuff if at all possible. Every place is different!