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Tuesday, October 1, 2013

There Ain't No Rest for the Mama

As the cold season starts to blow in we do everything we can think of to keep the symptoms at bay. Yet, in reality, there is really little anyone can do once the coughing and sneezing begin. It's especially hard when you're a mom. It only takes on sneeze to spread your unpleasant cold to your little one. But, there are things you can do to make it less likely to pass over to them.
Keep your baby away from you as much as possible. Put your baby on his play gym, in his crib or his swing or bouncy chair. That way he's entertained, and you're not spreading your germs onto them.
Wash your hands or use sanitizer after ever nose blow. It may sound tedious and your hands will be dry by the end of the day, but your little one is still not sick!
Try to see if a family member or friend that you trust come over and help with the baby for a few hours. If possible, see if your spouse can stay home or go into work late or come home early. That way you can rest and recharge your already weak battery a little.
Only handle the baby when you're changing his diaper and feeding him. The minimal amount of contact can make the difference between a sick baby and a healthy one. You may be miserable now, but try adding on a sick baby on top of that.
Really, there is still the chance that your baby will get the cold. Statistics say that your baby will their first cold in their first year of life. It's almost inevitable when they're obsessed with putting their fingers in their mouths and rubbing their eyes.
All you can do is make your baby comfortable. Use a rubber syringe to keep the air ways clear. It'll be hard to eat and sleep with a clogged nose. Elevate his head when he sleeps. That way the mucus isn't dripping down his throat and causing them to choke. NEVER give over the counter medication to your baby. Call your doctor if they have a fever of over 100.4 and they will tell you if you need to bring your child in. If he does have a fever, give him infant Tylenol and bring him to the doctor.

For more info on cold care for infants click here: http://www.babycenter.com/0_colds_78.bc
Being a stay-at-home mom is a 24-hours a day job. And there are no sick days. It's important to be 100 per cent for your baby. You need rest, even though it seems to get ten times harder when you're sick with a baby. Push fluids and try to sneak in a nap here and there. You'll feel better for it.

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