Managing Cold Symptoms and Digestive Issues in Infants

Cold and bowel issues?

Hello, Doctor He:
1.
I would like to ask about my daughter, who is currently two and a half months old, weighing 4,700 grams and measuring 55 centimeters.
She was born weighing 2,500 grams and measuring 47 centimeters.
Currently, she is consuming 140 cc of formula five times a day.
Is her growth normal, or is she drinking too little?
2.
Additionally, I caught a cold and transmitted it to my daughter.
She has seen a doctor and has been on medication for two weeks, but she still has nasal congestion and a cough, and sometimes she even vomits milk.
If I continue giving her medication, will it put a strain on her kidneys? Are there other ways to alleviate her cough and nasal congestion symptoms?
3.
She is currently drinking Abbott formula and used to have a bowel movement approximately every two days.
However, after starting the cold medication, her bowel movements have changed to every 3-4 days, and they are hard and difficult to pass.
Could this be related to the cold medication? If not, what can be done to improve this situation?
Thank you for your guidance! I appreciate it!

beautlian, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/11/13

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics

1.
At two and a half months, the weight is 4700 grams (10-25 percentile), height is 55 cm (25 percentile), and the weight has increased by 2200 grams since birth.
This growth is considered normal (typically, infants gain about 1 kg per month in the first few months).
It is also normal for infants to consume at least 100 cc of milk per kilogram of body weight per day.

2.
Common cold medications prescribed by pediatricians, calculated based on the infant's weight, should not place a burden on the kidneys.
Some supportive physical methods, such as using warm steam to humidify the nasal passages and then patting the back to help loosen mucus (which can facilitate the drainage of thick nasal discharge and relieve nasal congestion), can also alleviate coughing and nasal congestion symptoms.
3.
There are some cold medications (though not many) that may affect bowel movements; you can consult your physician about this.
There are methods to soften stools, such as slightly increasing the concentration of milk (but not for too long).
Occasionally, inserting a rectal thermometer and rotating it can stimulate bowel movements.
If the stools remain hard, you may also consider switching the formula.

Reply Date: 2007/11/13

More Info

Managing cold symptoms and digestive issues in infants can be a challenging task for parents, especially when dealing with a young child who is still developing. Let's address your concerns one by one.

1. Growth and Feeding: Your daughter is currently 2.5 months old, weighing 4700 grams and measuring 55 cm in height. Given that she was born at 2500 grams and 47 cm, she appears to be growing well. The average weight gain for infants in the first few months is about 150-200 grams per week. At 4700 grams, she is within the normal range for her age. The feeding schedule of 5 times a day at 140 cc (approximately 4.7 ounces) per feeding is also reasonable. However, if you have concerns about her feeding amounts or growth, it is always best to consult with your pediatrician for personalized advice.

2. Cold Symptoms and Medication: It is common for infants to catch colds, especially if they are exposed to sick family members. If your daughter has been prescribed medication for her cold symptoms, it is essential to follow the doctor's instructions. While some medications can have side effects, including potential impacts on kidney function, most pediatricians prescribe medications that are safe for infants. If you are concerned about the medication's effects, discuss alternative treatments with your pediatrician. Non-medication strategies to alleviate nasal congestion and coughing include using a humidifier in her room, saline nasal drops to help clear her nasal passages, and ensuring she is well-hydrated.

3. Digestive Issues: The change in your daughter's bowel movements from every two days to every three to four days, especially if accompanied by hard stools, could be related to the medication she is taking. Some cold medications can lead to constipation in infants. If this is the case, it is crucial to address it. You can help improve her bowel movements by ensuring she is adequately hydrated and possibly discussing with your pediatrician the introduction of gentle tummy massages or bicycle leg movements to stimulate digestion. If constipation persists, your doctor may recommend safe interventions, such as a small amount of diluted fruit juice or a glycerin suppository, but these should only be used under medical guidance.

In summary, your daughter's growth appears to be on track, and while cold symptoms can be distressing, there are safe ways to manage them. Always consult with your pediatrician before making any changes to her medication or diet, especially at such a young age. They can provide tailored advice based on her specific health needs and ensure that any treatments are safe and effective. Remember, your pediatrician is your best resource for navigating these early stages of your child's health.

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